The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has launched an online tool to help small businesses, including auto body repair shops, with environmental compliance. 

DNR’s Environmental Responsibility Navigator (Enviro-Nav) helps businesses understand the environmental requirements that apply to them, including those related to air pollution, water use/discharge, and waste generation, according to a press release. 

The tool is funded through the 2023-2025 state budget and administered through the DNR Small Business Environmental Assistance Program, the release says.

Enviro-Nav will guide users through questions about their plans for a new or expanding business or the review of their existing operations. It then provides a summary of environmental regulatory requirements, links to guidance documents, and contact information based on the responses. 

Auto body repair is one of 18 business sectors tailored to by Enviro-Nav to provide specific information based on each industry’s needs. Other business sectors include salvage yards, gasoline dispensing, fiberglass reinforced plastics, and solar farms. 

Once “Auto Body Repair Shop” is selected, the navigator asks if the business wants more information on air permits, water discharge, waste management, or additional resources, such as a DNR checklist for all environmental requirements. 

If air permits is selected, the site gives specific rules on special volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect auto body shop painting operations in the state. 

“Calculate the quantity of VOC emissions based on actual paints and solvents used and their respective VOC contents, monthly and averaged over each 12 consecutive month period, without consideration of control device efficiency,” the site states. 

The navigator goes on to ask if the auto body shop is located in specific counties where rules can vary. 

While the site has created specific information for 18 business sectors, the release says all businesses can benefit from the information, even local government. 

“Enviro-Nav is a win-win for the environment and Wisconsin’s economy,” said DNR Secretary Karen Hyun, in the release. “Environmental compliance is an essential component of a thriving business, and I encourage any business seeking assistance with environmental requirements to take advantage of this new resource.”

The Small Business Environmental Assistance Program offers plain language information and one-on-one support to small businesses at no cost to help them comply with environmental requirements, according to the release. 

“Whether purchasing a new property, expanding a small business, or in need of help understanding how the DNR’s rules apply, the Small Business Environmental Assistance Program has assistance available that can help make sure you are doing the right thing for your business and the environment,” the release says. “Identifying, measuring, and managing environmental impacts can bring tangible business value to businesses of all sizes.” 

Anyone with questions or comments on the Enviro-Nav tool can contact the DNR Small Business Environmental Assistance Program by emailing DNRSmallBusiness@Wisconsin.gov or calling 855-889-3021.

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