University of Alabama Research Professor Gary C. April founded Project R.O.S.E. in 1977, a non-profit energy conservation program. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Science Technology and Energy Division provides program funding.
Project R.O.S.E. strives to conserve energy and preserve a valuable natural resource while protecting Alabama's environment. To accomplish its purposes, the program conducts continuous public education projects, helps establish community oil collection/recycling systems, and coordinates used oil collection and recycling statewide. Project R.O.S.E. focuses on the do-it-yourselfers(DIY) oil changer's relationship to used oil pollution prevention.
The Project R.O.S.E. network collects 8 million gallons of used oil annually. More than 500 service stations, auto part stores, car dealerships, and quick lube facilities throughout Alabama voluntarily serve as collection sites, offering DIYs a responsible alternative to improper oil disposal practices (i.e., dumping in backyards, sewers or storm drains).
In addition to its collection site program, Project R.O.S.E. serves rural municipalities (areas without suitable collection sites) with a 55 gallon drum placement/collection methods and establishes curbside used oil collection programs in metropolitan areas. During the program's history, these various collection methods have saved some one-half billion gallons of oil from polluting Alabama's soil and waterways.
The program has also expanded its scope, adapting used oil collection and recycling systems to on-site corporate and marine management applications.
Marina R.O.S.E. evolved as an on-site measure to control the discharge of boat motor oil around recreational waterways (improperly maintained engines and irresponsible owner behavior remain at the core of its pollution problem). Collection sites, typically established at marinas and vessel service facilities, encourage proper boat motor upkeep and remind owners of their water management responsibilities.
Project R.O.S.E's comprehensive approach to used oil recycling has received national recognition. The United States Environmental Protection Agency based its "How to Set Up A Local Program to Recycle Used Oil" booklet on the Project R.O.S.E. model, calling the program "one of the country's most successful organized promoters."
The program has also received the following awards and honors: