A delegation from the Brazilian Automotive Recycling Association recently undertook a two-week journey across Europe. Their mission was to visit various operations, gain insights from international references, and learn how to enhance the automotive recycling sector in Brazil by adopting best legislative and operational practices. The trip included visits to Spain, France, and the United Kingdom, each offering unique perspectives on the automotive recycling industry.
Country overviews
Spain
In Spain, the delegation visited several advanced recycling facilities that exhibit a high degree of technical development. Spanish facilities utilize sophisticated software and optimized processes, which contribute to their efficiency.
France
France presented a robust model of automotive recycling driven by stringent environmental regulations and industrial-scale processing. The French facilities demonstrated high levels of automation, allowing for the efficient dismantling and processing of large volumes of vehicles.
UK
The UK’s approach to automotive recycling is highly organized and supported by comprehensive legislation. British facilities showcased an impressive integration between insurance companies and dismantlers. The process of collecting collided vehicles is handled directly by the dismantlers, ensuring a steady supply of end-of-life vehicles for recycling.
Comparative: Brazil vs. Europe
Reutilization of Parts
One of the most striking differences noted by the delegation was the approach to parts reutilization. In Brazil, the reutilization of vehicle parts is more extensive, with approximately 250 parts from a single vehicle being resold. This practice supports the local market and provides affordable options for car repairs and maintenance. In contrast, European operations focus more on recycling raw materials rather than reselling individual parts. This difference stems from varying market demands, labor and regulatory environments.
Volume of Vehicles for Dismantling
Another key difference is the availability of vehicles for dismantling. European facilities benefit from a higher volume of cars due to well-established end-of-life vehicle (ELV) programs. This ensures a steady supply of vehicles for recycling operations. In Brazil, the supply chain for end-of-life vehicles is less developed, leading to fewer cars available for dismantling. The delegation recognized the need to enhance Brazil’s ELV framework to increase the volume of vehicles entering the recycling stream.
Operational and Legislative Practices
European countries have advanced legislative frameworks that support efficient automotive recycling. These regulations ensure that vehicles are properly disposed of and recycled, promoting environmental sustainability. The delegation identified several best practices that could be adapted to the Brazilian context, including stricter environmental regulations, incentives for recycling operations, and the integration of advanced technologies in the dismantling process.
“These visits and international studies are highly beneficial for all countries. By sharing knowledge and strategies, we can collectively contribute to a more sustainable future for the international automotive recycling industry,” said Julio Luchesi, President of the Brazilian Automotive Recycling Association.
The Brazilian Automotive Recycling Association extends its gratitude to the following operations for their hospitality and for sharing their valuable insights: GPA GROUPE, Silverlake Automotive Recycling, SYNETIQ, and DESGUACE RECOAUTOS. Their contributions were instrumental in making this learning journey a success.
