Federal agencies must dispose of about 18 million gallons of used lubricating oil annually, most of it from Department of Defense (DOD) installations. DOD has recognized the value of recycling used oil and has assumed the lead role in the government's procurement, use, and disposal of this resource.

Federal agencies with large automotive fleets are not achieving maximum recovery of the 18 million gallons of used lubricating oil each year, and some disposal practices damage the environment. There is neither a focal point among federal agencies to provide guidance to federal installations nor a management structure with specific levels of authority and responsibility to deal with the problems of used oil conservation and disposal. Because of this, no one knows the total amount generated and its ultimate disposition. Such information is vital to properly manage used oil. Meanwhile, DOD could take several actions to improve oil recycling by the military services.

Status Legend:

Review Pending-GAO has not yet assessed implementation status.

Open-Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned, or actions that partially satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-implemented-Actions that satisfy the intent of the recommendation have been taken.

Closed-not implemented-While the intent of the recommendation has not been satisfied, time or circumstances have rendered the recommendation invalid.

• Review Pending
• Open
• Closed - implemented
• Closed - not implemented

Recommendation for Executive Action

Recommendation: The Secretary of Defense should: (1) institute standard requirements for segregating and collecting or storing used oil by physical characteristics; and (2) investigate the feasibility of making regional agreements with re-refiners to re-refine used lubricating oil into lubricants which have no prohibition against re-refined materials, with a view toward including automotive engine oil as soon as such oil can meet DOD specifications.

Agency Affected:

Status: Closed

Comments: Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.