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IRT Webinar review: Vehicle Recycling: Sustainable by Default and Driving the Charge

A Review of the Recent IRT Webinar by SYNETIQ and ARC

IRT Webinar review: Vehicle Recycling: Sustainable by Default and Driving the Charge soc
The webinar, ‘Vehicle Recycling: Sustainable by Default and Driving the Charge’, held on July 11, presented a comprehensive overview of the strides being made in the vehicle recycling industry, focusing on sustainability and innovation. Hosted by Haydn Davies, Director of Auto Recycling World, and presented by Tom Rumboll, UK Managing Director for IAA and CEO of SYNETIQ and Steve Fletcher, CEO of Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC), the event provided valuable insights into the operations and initiatives of these industry leaders.

 

IRT Webinar review: Vehicle Recycling: Sustainable by Default and Driving the Charge TR
Tom Rumboll

Tom Rumboll, UK Managing Director for IAA and CEO of SYNETIQ, opened the webinar with a deep dive into the company’s integrated salvage and dismantling operations. SYNETIQ has distinguished itself in the vehicle recycling industry through its proprietary online salvage auction platform, which efficiently sells vehicles and useable non-critical green parts from those deemed non-roadworthy. This model is central to SYNETIQ’s ethos to maximise the financial and environmental value of each vehicle they handle.

The company’s name, derived from “synergy” and “kinetic,” encapsulates its philosophy of integrating top-tier systems, personnel, and technologies to drive progress. This is manifested in their commitment to creating a reputable vehicle recycling industry grounded in innovation, compliance, and environmental responsibility.

SYNETIQ’s business solutions prevent vehicles from becoming total losses, ensuring policyholder satisfaction and economic efficiency. Additionally, the company aligns with global sustainability efforts such as the Science-Based Targets initiative, focusing on measuring and reducing emissions across all scopes. They have implemented several workstreams to reduce their carbon footprint, including transitioning to renewable energy, maximizing recycling efforts, and promoting carbon literacy among employees.

SYNETIQ’s efforts in battery recycling and collaboration with organisations to create a circular economy for electric vehicle (EV) batteries demonstrate their forward-thinking approach. This initiative is crucial as the automotive industry shifts towards electric mobility.

IRT Webinar review: Vehicle Recycling: Sustainable by Default and Driving the Charge SF
Steve Fletcher

Steve Fletcher, CEO of the Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC), provided a comprehensive overview of the organization’s sustainability efforts over the past 12 years. ARC collaborates with seven provincial associations and 350 auto recyclers to implement national programs and engage in international discussions on auto recycling.

One notable initiative by ARC is the Canadian Auto Recyclers Environmental Code (CAREC), developed with Environment Canada. CAREC is a third-party audited standard focusing on pollution prevention and waste management. This system, which includes a scoring mechanism, has led to significant improvements in environmental performance among ARC members, with national average scores rising to 88%.

The Green Parts branding initiative educates consumers, policyholders, and industry members about the environmental benefits of auto recycling. Originating from Ontario and Quebec, it has gained global traction, promoting the use of recycled parts. In 2023, ARC conducted a study with Oakdene Hollins to quantify the environmental benefits of recycled auto parts, particularly focusing on greenhouse gas (GHG) savings. The study’s findings have been pivotal in discussions with insurers and repairers, underscoring the sustainability of recycled parts.

The webinar featured a robust Q&A session addressing various aspects of vehicle recycling and sustainability. Tom Rumboll highlighted a 96% recycling rate at SYNETIQ, with the remaining 4% being processed by companies like EMR, Sims, Wards, and Norton’s to recycle different materials into new products. Both Tom and Steve discussed the calculation of CO2 savings per recycled part type compared to new aftermarket parts, using consultancy data to demonstrate the environmental benefits. Tom mentioned the absence of a carbon credit scheme for auto recyclers in the UK but anticipated legislative changes. Steve noted Canada’s carbon credits but highlighted challenges in determining the rightful earners.

Additionally, Tom and Steve addressed safety protocols for handling EV batteries, emphasizing containment and collaboration with OEMs and fire safety experts to manage risks. Both speakers emphasized the industry’s leadership role in sustainability efforts. Tom predicted advancements in zero-carbon vehicles and cradle-to-cradle manufacturing within the next five years, while Steve stressed the importance of collaboration and documenting sustainable practices.

The “Vehicle Recycling: Sustainable by Default and Driving the Charge” webinar showcased significant advancements and ongoing efforts in the vehicle recycling industry. SYNETIQ and ARC exemplify leadership in sustainability, demonstrating a commitment to environmental and economic impacts through innovation and collaboration. The webinar provided a valuable platform for sharing knowledge, addressing industry challenges, and highlighting future directions for vehicle recycling and sustainability.

To see the full webinar, see the video below:

 

For updates on future webinars and events, please visit www.irt-autorecycling.org

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