This Green Initiative seeks to convert all petroleum-based products used in state park and recreation area vehicles and equipment to bio-soy alternatives where product is available.

This highly visible initiative will elevate the public awareness of the importance of protecting Michigan’s ecosystems, reduce fossil fuel dependency and support economic growth within the state and region. Bio-soy products will be used in a variety of vehicles and park equipment including: tractors, front end loaders, bulldozers, lawnmowers, chain saws, boats and all-terrain vehicles.

The Parks and Recreation Division was able to offset incremental costs associated with converting from petroleum-based to bio-soy based products with funds available through a grant for almost $80,000 from the Department of Labor and Economic Growth's Michigan Energy Office.

The Division's goal is to eliminate the use of petroleum-based products to the highest degree possible with currently available bio-soy based alternatives and to also support the economic growth of petroleum alternative producers and industries through the product purchase. Some examples of such products include:

• hydraulic fluid
• bar and chain oil
• two-cycle engine oil
• penetrating oil
• 10W30 motor oil
• parts cleaning solution
• bearing grease
• air compressor fluid
• degreaser
• 80/90 gear lube
• summer and winter diesel conditioner

Links
Federal Environmental Executive Bio-based Products