WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A state program that incentivizes auto shops to use more eco-friendly products is still accepting applications.

The Department of Ecology is offering up to $10,000 in reimbursements to Washington auto shops when they switch from using solvent-based degreasers to safer alternatives.

Solvent-based degreasers contain toxic chemicals that are designed to remove oil, grease and grime from auto parts.

Switching to a water-based degreaser qualifies the shop for up to $5,000 reimbursement, or making the jump to an EPA Safer Choice certified product can get the shop the full $10,000.

Eligible applicants must work on public road-safe vehicles such as cars, trucks, buses, semi-trucks or motorcycles.

Over the last three years, the department says they have helped switch the products of over 150 repair shops in the state.

This program is a part of Ecology’s Product Replacement Program that seeks to replace the most harmful chemicals through compensation for small businesses.