ABSTRACT
The German “Voluntary Agreement on Environmentally Sound Recycling of Used Cars” was proposed by 15 supporting associations and discussed on February 21, 1996. Cars should be optimized from the environmental point of view throughout their life cycle and during the entire production process. Both aspects are expected to be realized in the German and European automotive industry, and virtually all car manufacturers have issued recycling standards, analyzed vehicle disassembly, drawn up life cycle-related balance sheets on components and made lists of requirements in which the recycling capacity of the materials used is significant. Car manufacturers take great care to produce their vehicles in an environmentally correct way, respecting all the relevant legislation. They are clearly responsible for any pollution at this stage, and should pay to control it if needed. Manufacturers shall provide dismantling manuals for individual car components and materials within 6 months after type approval.
