Our Approaches to Automobile Recycling and Future Tasks

Abstract
In 1998, Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc. put together the "Self-Imposed Action Plan" as its new approach to the recycling of end-of-life vehicles. It has achieved great results through this initiative and from related efforts as well. Currently, a new bill on the recycling of end-of-life vehicles (hereafter referred to as "Automobile Recycling Law" ) is being deliberated at the 154th ordinary session of the Diet. The current bill would obligate automobile manufacturers to collect, process, and recycle, chlorofluorocarbons, automobile shredder residues, and Airbags, etc. that are difficult to be disposed of in the processing of end-of-life vehicles. By assigning each of the parties concerned their respective responsibilities, it is expected that the recycling of end-of-life vehicles will proceed smoothly. In addition, automobile manufacturers would be required to play a central role in developing and managing an automobile recycling system. It is the duty of automakers to work harder than ever to fulfill the existing responsibilities of improving the recycling system and facilitating the proper processing of car development and manufacturing. Moreover, they are playing an active part in considering approaches that will facilitate the recycling of end-of-life vehicles within the law.

Key words: recycling design, recovery and destruction of chlorofluorocarbons, automobile recycling system, automobile shredder residues, airbags