Aramark Uniform and Career Apparel Inc. is adding 50 alternative fuel vehicles to its fleet, the 11th largest private fleet in the United States.

The firm announced its plans this week.

The AFVs are powered by a hybrid driving battery and an energy-compliant diesel engine. The battery recharges with brake use, making the vehicles ideal for urban routes that involve stop-and-go traffic.

The company did not disclose its investment for the vehicle expansion, but said it is receiving a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy's Maryland Clean Cities Program, funded by the Recovery Act.

The company's other environmental responsibility efforts include use of biodegradable washing formulas in its laundry services and a wire hanger recycling program that has prevented 10 thousand tons of steel from going to landfills in the past 12 months, the firm said.

Image courtesy of Aramark.

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