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King County Washington home

Lubricants

King County has purchased re-refined motor oil since 1992, reducing the need for new oil refining and conserving non-renewable resources. Because engine oil does not wear out, it can be cleaned, re-refined, and restored with additives to meet high-quality standards, including certification by the American Petroleum Institute.

The County also uses biobased lubricants made from renewable plant, marine, and forestry materials. These products perform like petroleum-based oils and are typically identified on equipment labels. Since 2001, the County’s Renton Maintenance Facility has used vegetable-based hydraulic oils in equipment ranging from lawn mowers to dump trucks.

Policy and Goals:

King County’s Sustainable Purchasing Executive Policy (CON 7-22-1-EP),

  • Reducing waste generation by choosing products that are durable, reusable, repairable, refillable, recyclable, compostable, salvageable, deconstructable, or made with recycled content or remanufactured parts
  • Purchase of recyclable and/or recycled products
  • Purchase goods that are durable and long lasting
  • Conserving natural resources including water, petroleum, rare earth minerals

Quick Tips

Choose

  • Re-refined motor oil with at least 25% recycled content
  • Biobased lubricants made from renewable resources
  • Lubricants that meet API (American Petroleum Institute) certification
  • Synthetic, long-lasting lubricants that extend equipment life and reduce oil change frequency

Avoid

  • Virgin (new) oil and lubricants
  • Burning used oil for heat

End of Life

  • Recycle used oil through the vendor or certified recycler
  • Follow proper storage and handling to prevent spills and contamination

An EPA checkmark indicates a certification, or standard is recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).




Other Guidance

American Petroleum Institute Certified Oil Seal
American Petroleum Institute Oil Service Seal

American Petroleum Institute (API) - API Certification is required for most vehicle warranties and is used in motor oil purchasing standards. Oils labeled "Resource Conserving" or "Energy Conserving" are made for gasoline cars, vans, and light trucks. Using these oils across many vehicles can help save fuel fleet-wide.

Technical Specification Language

High Performance Buildings Guide: Transportation and Automotive