End-of-life vehicles: new regulations come into force on 13 August

Brussels – Every year in Europe, between 10 and 12 million vehicles reach the end of their useful life and are treated as waste. In addition to the loss of “millions of tonnes” of raw materials, if they are not managed properly, they can cause serious environmental problems. Tomorrow (13 August), new rules on the design, production, collection and treatment of end‑of‑life vehicles will enter into force to strengthen the circularity of the automotive sector and support Europe’s strategic autonomy.

By fostering the recovery, reuse and recycling of steel, aluminium, copper or plastics, the regulation will strengthen the security of Europe’s resources, reduce dependence on imported virgin raw materials, support the automotive industry, and, of course, reduce waste. The Commission also hopes that new business opportunities will be created throughout the entire supply chain, fostering greater collaboration between manufacturers, vehicle dismantlers and recyclers. 

Among the rules is an obligation for manufacturers to provide clear, detailed instructions for removing and replacing components during the vehicle’s use and at the end of its life cycle, to facilitate dismantling. Initial mandatory targets have also been set for the use of recycled plastic in European vehicles, with a view to stimulating demand for recycled materials. Furthermore, measures aimed at promoting the reuse and remanufacturing of vehicles will increase the availability of second-hand spare parts. Furthermore, by strengthening producers’ responsibility, adequate funding for the treatment of waste from end-of-life vehicles will be ensured, and higher-quality recycling will be promoted. Finally, from tomorrow, only roadworthy cars may be exported outside the EU, and no longer those that are end-of-life and/or damaged. 

The European Commissioner for the Environment, Jessika Roswall, welcomed the regulation, stating that “this is about more than recycling ” as “every car that is dismantled, every tonne of steel, aluminium, copper or plastic that is recovered, is a step towards a more resilient Europe,” she concluded.