WASHINGTON - ARAMARK Uniform Services will expand its fleet - the 11th largest private fleet in the United States - with 50 hybrid vehicles.

The addition of the alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) will increase the fleet's energy efficiency and help protect the air quality in the areas where the trucks will be deployed. A grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy's Maryland Clean Cities Program and funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will allow ARAMARK to accelerate this program.

The AFVs use both a main hybrid driving battery and an energy-compliant diesel engine. Because the battery recharges with brake use, the hybrids will be deployed in a dozen urban areas that require low speeds and stop and go traffic.

"We take our leadership role in conserving the earth's natural resources seriously," said 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 award-winning programs that support environmental compliance; conserve natural resources, including water, gas and electricity; and promote the formulation and use of a biodegradable laundry detergent.

In the past 12 months alone, ARAMARK's wire hanger recycling program has prevented 10 thousand tons of steel from being deposited into landfills, according to the company.

In June, the Textile Rental Services Association (TRSA) presented its top Environmental Stewardship award to ARAMARK for achieving a 10-year record of "Best Overall Conservation" for outstanding energy and water conservation practices at its Chicago-based laundry facility. It was the first time TRSA has recognized an individual facility for sustaining the finest in long-term environmental performance.

"Energy conservation has always been our focus," said Manuel Nieto, VP 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."