Sterling Autobody Centers announces it has completed its network-wide conversion to waterborne paint. The transition began in June and took less than three months to complete, the company says. All 62 Sterling locations are presently using the waterborne system.
“Repairing vehicles today with tomorrow in mind is a commitment Sterling is proud to lead within our industry," said Sterling President Nick Notte. "The environmentally sound decision to convert our locations from a solventborne to a waterborne system is simply the right thing to do. It not only enables us to provide our customers with the highest quality of repairs, but it is one of the many ways we are reducing our ecological footprint."
“I am pleased with the speed of the transition. I commend Sterling leadership for this remarkable result," he added. "Additionally, my sincere appreciation goes out to Lou DiLisio of Automotive Industry Consulting, Inc., Henry Rich of AkzoNobel and John Spota of 3M. Their tenacity and attention to detail greatly enabled us to achieve our transition goal."
A.B. Ghosh, Car Refinishes Americas general manager, AkzoNobel Coatings, Inc. added, “As owners of the No. 1 position on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, the advancement of eco-conscious business practices is a key strategic initiative for AkzoNobel. With the choice of Sikkens Autowave as their waterborne paint technology, Sterling has entrusted a cornerstone action in their green initiatives to us. Their move to waterborne makes the organization the largest consolidator to convert their entire organization in advance of any regulatory compliance. It is a privilege to collaborate with Sterling as they embrace the three critical components of sustainability, which are a consideration for people, planet and profit.”
In addition to the investment in the waterborne conversion, Sterling says it is committed to finding sustainable, responsible solutions that protect our natural resources. All lighting in Sterling stores is on timed sensors, and facilities shut off interior lights at the end of each business day. All light bulbs are energy efficient, and appliances and office equipment are “Energy Star” certified. All cardboard boxes and packaging, antifreeze, oil and printer and toner cartridges are recycled.
As Sterling expands it network and adds new stores, the company says it’s focused on reusing existing buildings vs. new construction. The renovation process includes using recycled flooring material and installing “low water consumption” plumbing fixtures whenever possible. Sterling also completes annual testing of car wash wastewater to ensure it is non-hazardous and regularly tests paint booth filters to make sure they meet and exceed requirements.
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Sterling Autobody Centers
