Sam Bell - The Lusty Wrench

Nominator: Laura Marks, Laura's Pianos Service

How has the nominee implemented sustainable business practices in his or her business or organization and what are the triple bottom line benefits (people, planet, prosperity) of the nominee's work?

Sam keeps the planet's needs in mind while working in a field that he know is not sustainable, yet is a reality of our current lifestyle. The Lusty Wrench is an "ecoconscious auto repair shop". Recycling is instituted into every part of the operation, as is installing parts with the larger picture of minimizing cars' impact on the environment. In addition, Sam often advises clients to wash their cars to maximize the lifespan. He also recommends clients' to buy new vehicles rather than put money into repairs, when it is in the best interest of the client and planet.

How does the nominee actively participate in the sustainability community? How do they collaborate and share their knowledge with others?

Sam Bell keeps informed of the constantly changing world of automobile technology. He shares his knowledge freely with other technicians and policy makers. He shares his knowledge with technicians on a national scale by writing technical articles for "Motor" magazine and through technicians' websites. He contacts policy makers with ideas for road and vehicular decisions through websites, email, and Facebook. Through this sharing, Sam offers invaluable insights with the bigger needs of society and the environment. He keeps abreast of the local and global communities and offers help when he believes his help is appropriate.

How has the nominee inspired you to implement sustainable business practices? What is your relationship with the nominee: supervisor, employee, peer, father, friend or other.

Sam and I speak frequently to keep each other updated on sustainable ideas and opportunities. We inspire each other to minimize our footprints on the planet and share our concern with others. In addition, Sam keeps my Prius in top working condition so I minimize my footprint as I drive to my customers' homes. I am one of Sam's customers and, through this interaction, have become his friend.

How can someone else translate the success of the nominee? Is the work of the nominee an example or model that others can follow?

Everyone needs to evaluate his/her footprint and how to minimize it. Some times that means taking a dirty job, such as auto repair, and making it as sustainable as possible. At the same time, we need to be keeping an eye open for emerging technologies and other alternative that can improve our live in the future. Sam Bell's business, The Lusty Wrench, is an example of both.