During the 2023 AAPEX Show, sustainability leaders from across the automotive aftermarket came together to learn about industry association sustainability groups during a “Sustainabili-TEA and Coffee” event on Nov. 2. The event, co-hosted by the Auto Care Association’s Sustainability Committee and MEMA’s Center for Sustainability, focused on educating show attendees on best practices and served as a networking opportunity to share ideas around the aftermarket’s sustainable future.
At the event, John Chalifoux, COO for MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and chief sustainability officer, shared the Center for Sustainability’s mission with attendees: to serve members wherever they are on their sustainability journey. The collaborative community also aims to help members comply and build advantage as they assess and respond to the needs of their customers and shareholders. Chalifoux said more programming for MEMA members is slated for next year.
Ben Spitz, chair of the Auto Care Association’s Sustainability Committee and vice president of strategy and sustainability at The Parts Authority, said the committee has four focus areas:
- Industry education;
- Evaluation and influence of legislative policies;
- Advantages and opportunities of recycling;
- Fostering best-practice sharing and enhancement of industry standards to become more environmentally friendly.
Spitz said that the sustainability committee will soon launch a survey for Auto Care Association members to gain more information about where each member is in their sustainability journey and where pain points exist for members.
