WASHINGTON — ARAMARK Uniform Services is expanding its fleet of delivery trucks by adding 50 hybrid vehicles. The addition of the alternative-fuel vehicles (AFV) will increase the fleet’s energy efficiency and help protect the air quality in areas where the trucks will be deployed, ARAMARK says.
ARAMARK is accelerating this program thanks to a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Maryland Clean Cities Program and funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
ARAMARK’s AFV vehicles use a hybrid driving battery and an energy-compliant diesel engine. The company is deploying the hybrid trucks in urban areas that require low speeds and frequent stops to better take advantage of the battery, which recharges with brake use.
“We take our leadership role in conserving the earth’s natural resources seriously,” says Brad Drummond, president of ARAMARK Uniform Services. “Our team has always proactively explored environmentally sound practices. Whether using more hybrid vehicles or developing a biodegradable wash formula with our business partner, we remain steadfast in our commitment to serving as an exemplary steward within the industry.”
ARAMARK is a charter member of the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP), a voluntary initiative to improve overall environmental performance in commercial laundry facilities. The company has developed programs that support environmental compliance, conserve natural resources, and promote the formulation and use of a biodegradable laundry detergent.
“Energy conservation has always been our focus,” says Manuel Nieto, vice president of Operations Support and Engineering and project leader for the grant application. “We’ve continually developed energy initiatives and driven, monitored and ranked their performance, which has helped make us a leader in environmental practices in our industry.”
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