December 20, 1999

To demonstrate the industry's commitment to reinventing environmental protection, the Uniform and Textile Service Association (UTSA) and the Textile Rental Services Association (TRSA) have created LaundryESP – the Laundry Environmental Stewardship Program. The program is a voluntary environmental pollution prevention program for the entire industry. The associations unveiled the program to their respective memberships in September. Companies currently participating in the program represent over 90% of the industry's production.

LaundryESP includes the removal of pollutants before they enter the laundry facility, as well as quantifiable goals for reductions in water, energy, and washroom chemical usage. To implement LaundryESP, the two trade associations and their member companies will work with EPA, local water treatment authorities, customers, trade groups, environmental groups, and other stakeholders to ensure its success.

“This program marks the beginning of a new era for this industry. One in which the industry works cooperatively with EPA and others to further improve our existing efforts to protect the environment and conserve natural resources,” according to UTSA Chairman of the Board, Alan Cobb, Manchester, NH. “We are very excited about LaundryESP because of the positive effects it will have on the environment and the opportunities it presents for each participating company,” said TRSA Chairman of the Board, Tim Williams, Mexico, MO.

EPA is equally excited about the new program. According to Richard T. Farrell, Associate Administrator, Office of Policy, Economics and Innovation, USEPA, “LaundryESP helps companies reduce their environmental impacts and save money at the same time. These innovative partnerships are a great way for businesses to move down the path to environmental leadership,”