Author(s)

R. Paul

Abstract

This paper will discuss the results of evaluating the North American automotive recycling infrastructure and vehicles processed, materials recycled, parts reused and management of waste materials including alternative treatments for automotive shredder residue. Data and other available information regarding these activities and material volumes will be presented to demonstrate the success of vehicle recycling. Vehicle recycling, component reuse and metal recovery is important to governments, vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, material recyclers, dismantlers and shredders. The highly efficient car recycling infrastructure serves to divert materials from landfill and recycle metals from a high volume consumer product and serves as an alternative source of low cost components for repair of vehicles that might otherwise be taken out of service. Although N. America has no single comprehensive, automotive specific law similar to Europe or Japan, there are myriad federal, state and local regulations that require vehicle pretreatment, fluid collection, separation of selected materials of concern and landfill restrictions. Keywords: automotive recycling, vehicle recyclability, component reuse, material recycling, vehicle pre-treatment, shredder residue and sustainable development. 1 Introduction Motor vehicles provide a huge benefit to society and many cultural and personal transportation advantages in developed and developing regions around the world.

Keywords

automotive recycling, vehicle recyclability, component reuse, material recycling, vehicle pre-treatment, shredder residue and sustainable development.