BOZEMAN – Montana Import Group on April 18 received the Subaru Eco-Friendly Dealer Award.
The dealership first greened its operations and developed conservation partnerships in 2010, and has since worked to meet the requirements for the award. To do so, all of its departments worked together to meet a points-based inspection in five areas of conservation: energy efficiency, water conservation, recycling, waste management and community involvement.
Energy efficiency
In January 2011, the dealership reduced its energy consumption by implementing a lighting retrofit and in 2012 installed occupancy sensors. The points received for energy efficiency were for the sensors, compact florescent light bulbs and programmable thermostats.
Water conservation
Montana Import Group reduced water consumption by installing low-flow faucets, step-pedal faucets in the garage, low-flow toilets and water-efficient landscaping. These actions averaged 96 percent savings in 2011 and 33 percent savings in 2012.
Recycling
The dealership began recycling in 2010, collecting cans, paper and plastic internally; in 2011 it became a community recycling center. From 2011 to 2012, it increased its aluminum recycling by 181 percent, newspaper recycling by 256 percent, and plastic recycling by 165 percent.
Waste management
Local, state and federal law requires proper storage and disposal of materials that can be environmentally harmful, many of which are involved with vehicle operations. Beyond the legal requirements, these substances can cause significant impact. Montana Import Group ensures proper disposal of waste material such as oil, coolant, batteries and tires.
Community involvement
Since the Montana Import Group began a partnership program with community-based conservation and stewardship nonprofits in 2010, it has evolved to include dedicating three full-time loaner vehicles to conservation partners and running partner ads in local newspapers. Additionally, the dealership donates more than 10 percent of profits to partners and other conservation and stewardship groups. It has also established a volunteer program allowing employees to participate in partner events, and invites guest speakers to present conservation topics. The company maintains a sustainable purchasing policy.
