Title: End-of-life-vehicle recycling in Germany: alternative for the reduction of CO₂ emissions

Authors: Celina Kuhn; Kátia R.A. Nunes

Addresses: Technische Universität Darmstadt, Institute IWAR, Franziska-Braun-Str. 7, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany ' COPPE – Civil Engineering Program, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Tecnologia Bloco B, Sala 101, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil

Abstract: The recycling of end-of-life-vehicles (ELVs) involves different processes generally in several locations, connecting different companies. In 2015 a new EU legislation introduced for ELVs recycling and recovery rates of 85% and 95%, respectively. In the same year Germany presented for ELVs a recycling rate of 87.7% and a recovery rate of 95.8%. Nevertheless, significant information about German ELV recycling are aggregated. Regional differences, logistics among recycling facilities and potentials for improvement are not disclosed. Within a context of reducing global warming, the objectives of this research are: a) verifying the current situation of ELVs in two districts located in Germany; b) proposing alternatives for the reduction of CO₂ emissions. The results show significant CO₂ emission savings can be achieved with the optimization of logistics. This research can support local authorities, recycling companies and environmental organizations to look for possibilities of reducing environmental impacts with ELVs in their regions.

Keywords: end-of-life-vehicle; ELV; recycling; CO₂ emissions; circular economy; Germany.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWM.2018.092718

International Journal of Environment and Waste Management, 2018 Vol.21 No.2/3, pp.120 - 140

Received: 17 Aug 2017
Accepted: 12 Feb 2018
Published online: 28 Jun 2018 *

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