“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors. We borrow it from our children.” This well-known quote is more relevant today than ever, especially concerning something as significant and complex as a car. What you do with your old vehicle at the end of its life can greatly affect our local Edmonton environment and the world. It’s not just about getting rid of a problem; it’s about doing it responsibly.
For many, an old car is an eyesore and a financial drain. But for professional recyclers in Edmonton, that vehicle is a treasure trove of valuable materials ready for a second life. Vehicle recycling in Edmonton plays a key role in keeping our city clean and green, and it’s more efficient and eco-friendly than you might think.
That’s Not a Car, It’s a Future Resource!
You might imagine an old car being crushed and dumped in a landfill, but that couldn’t be more inaccurate. Modern vehicle recycling in Edmonton is a detailed, multi-step process designed to recover as many materials as possible and prevent hazardous waste from harming the environment. In fact, on average, an impressive 85 to 90 percent of a car’s materials can be recycled or reused!
So, what happens after a car is picked up?
Depollution First
This is the most important step. Before any dismantling begins, the car is “depolluted.” This means carefully draining all hazardous fluids, including engine oil, gasoline, coolant, and brake fluid. This is done in a controlled setting to ensure these toxic substances don’t leak into the ground and contaminate our water supply. Just one gallon of used oil can pollute up to a million gallons of fresh water, so this step is crucial!
Parts Removal
Next, valuable and reusable parts are taken out. This includes the battery (which is nearly 99% recyclable), tires, catalytic converters, and any working engine or transmission parts. These parts are often cleaned, tested, and resold. This helps people save money on car repairs and reduces the need for new manufacturing.
The Shredding Process
Once all the fluids and usable components are removed, the remaining shell of the car goes to a shredder. This powerful machine breaks the car down into fist-sized chunks of metal.
Sorting and Separating
This is where the real magic happens. Strong magnets are employed to separate ferrous metals (like steel and iron) from non-ferrous metals (like aluminum, copper, and zinc). Other machines and sorting processes separate plastics, rubber, and glass. The sorted metals are then sold to manufacturers to be melted down and used in new products, from car parts to appliances.
Why Edmonton Needs Vehicle Recycling
Deciding to recycle your vehicle isn’t just a smart financial choice; it’s an impactful way to help the environment. The benefits are significant and directly affect our community here in Edmonton.
- Saving Energy – Recycling metals conserves a huge amount of energy. For instance, recycling steel uses about 74% less energy than creating new steel from scratch. This leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions and a healthier atmosphere for all of us.
- Protecting Our Water and Soil – By safely removing and disposing of hazardous fluids, vehicle recyclers prevent harmful chemicals from getting into our local groundwater. Old, abandoned cars are potential hazards for environmental pollution, so removing them is a vital part of keeping our soil and water safe.
- Conserving Natural Resources – Every recycled car decreases the need for raw materials like iron ore and aluminum. This means less mining, less drilling, and less environmental disruption.
- Mercury Matters – Older cars, especially those manufactured before 2003, contain mercury switches that are highly toxic. The Canadian auto recycling industry has a program for removing and disposing of these switches, which has successfully diverted over a metric tonne of mercury from the environment.
Your Vehicle Recycling FAQs, Answered
Is vehicle recycling in Edmonton really regulated?
Yes! The industry adheres to regulations and standards like the Canadian Auto Recyclers’ Environmental Code (CAREC). This guarantees that every step of the process, from fluid removal to metal sorting, is conducted in an environmentally friendly way.
What happens to the stuff that can’t be recycled?
While about 85-90% of a car is recycled, the remaining part is called “auto shredder residue” (ASR). This mostly consists of glass, plastics, and foam. While the industry is working on solutions for ASR, this material is responsibly sent to landfills.
Is it safe to recycle my car with any company?
It’s always best to work with a trustworthy, professional recycling service that complies with all provincial and federal regulations. This ensures that hazardous materials are handled properly and you receive a fair price. Be cautious of uncertified or questionable operators who may not follow the correct environmental codes.
Do I get paid for my car, even if it’s just for recycling?
Absolutely. The materials inside your old car have value. A professional recycler will provide you with a fair cash offer based on the vehicle’s weight and the current market value of scrap metals.
Your Solution for a Green and Clean Driveway
If you have an old car you’re ready to dispose of, you can do something good for yourself and for Edmonton’s environment. At AAA Edmonton Cash For Cars, we focus on getting you the most cash for your vehicle while promoting responsible, eco-friendly vehicle recycling in Edmonton.
Our team follows the highest industry standards, ensuring that every vehicle we process is treated with care for the planet. We take the confusion and hassle out of the process, giving you a fair and honest quote and providing quick, free pickup service. Don’t let your old car become an environmental burden.
Call us today and let the experts at AAA Edmonton Cash For Cars turn your old vehicle into a green win for everyone.