Owners Dick and Bobbi Strom and the staff of Modern Collision Rebuild on Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island’s Modern Collision Rebuild recently earned the highest level of EnviroStars certification – 5 stars by meeting the significant requirements for hazardous waste minimization and pollution prevention. Additionally, the shop, which has been owned by Dick and Bobbi Strom since 1974, also demonstrated extensive measures to protect air quality. It was recognized by a special project developed by EnviroStars, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, and two autobody trade associations (the Autobody Craftsman Association and the Automotive Service Association).

For their efforts, Modern Collision Rebuild was awarded 5-star status, an annual $200 rebate on their permit fee from the Clean Air Agency, and an exemption from routine Clean Air Agency inspections.

The firm won last year’s Kitsap County Earth Day Award for Best Hazardous Waste Program and they are a Green Work’s Distinguished Business in the Green.

The Stroms have been recycling since about day one. When the dumpster was overflowing they started getting creative with waste reduction and recycling. Now they recycle over 17 materials including some hazardous wastes. Over the years they have reduced the toxicity of products, improved storage and spill control readiness, set up systems to reuse materials, and established new outlets for hard-to-recycle items.

Although they always keep their eyes open for ways to improve their own shop, the Stroms also help others in their industry. They currently serve as co-chairs for the Kitsap County chapter of the Autobody Craftsman Association and Dick Strom contributes insightful business and autobody-related articles to numerous different publications.

Strom acknowledges, “It’s nice to be recognized for doing the right thing, but we would have continued our environmental efforts whether we were recognized or not.”

EnviroStars Coordinator Elizabeth McCloskey believes that along with the quality work done at Modern Collision Rebuild their “secret” may be something other than a fancy piece of equipment or an impressive client list. “The depth of their commitment to the environment and their community is reflected in how they conduct business. I believe this has led to a certain spirit that is evident among their employees who work in a friendly, clean, and efficient shop. Modern Collision Rebuild shows the true leadership and pollution prevention ideology we recognize in a 5-star certified EnviroStar.”

Modern Collision Rebuild is ICAR trained and PPG and ASE certified. They are located at 9270 Miller Road in Bainbridge Island and can be reached at (206) 842-8053 or (360) 697-6633.

For more information about EnviroStars or the joint Clean Air Agency autobody pilot project, contact the Bremerton- Kitsap County Health District at (360) 692-3611.