CAREC | why use the code

Why use the Code?

Environment vs. Profitability

There is a myth that the protection of the environment costs money and jobs. This is an old myth and in fact the opposite is true.
Clean automotive recyclers have the lowest liability with respect to soil contamination, they are more efficient, they retain good workers, they have lower accident records and above all, they are more profitable.
Use the Code as a method to improve efficiency, reduce liability and be more profitalble!

	Why use the Code?
	Download the Code
	Audit Protocols & Checklist
	Training
	Existing Industry Stewardship Programs

Environmental Impacts


	There are a number of potentially hazardous materials in end-of-life vehicles that are harmful to the environment and harmful to workers.As such, automotive recyclers must:
		handle these materials properly under normal operating conditions;
		prevent large spills;
		clean up small leaks and spills.
	Hazardous materials that must be properly managed by automotive recyclers include:
		Gasoline and fuels
		Refrigerants (R12 and HFC134a)
		Oils, grease and operating fluids
		Antifreeze
		Windshield washer fluid
		Tires
		Lead and Lead Acid Batteries

Legal Requirements

There are two legal aspects associated with hazardous materials. The first is the liability when hazardous materials or substances are spilled and contaminate the property. Landowners are particularly interested in this aspect because the contamination affects the value of the property. Every province has contaminated sites legislation that places the responsibility to clean up the property on the land owner. So protect your asset and prevent spills and clean them up when they occur.

The second legal aspect is when hazardous materials or substances leave your property under controlled or uncontrolled circumstances. Runoff during precipitation events and snow melt can transport hazardous materials or substances to streams and sewers are regulated. If your site is located next to a fish bearing stream in a high precipitation area, then you are a “high” risk site and the control of runoff is an important concern. If your site is in a low precipitation area with no streams nearby, then your site is a “low” risk site.

Automotive recyclers must also understand that the transportation of hazardous materials or substances on public roads to recycling or processing facilities is also regulated. Under most circumstances, transport companies must be licensed by Provincial authorities.

Because you cannot discharge the hazardous materials to the environment, regulatory authorities require the adequate removal, storage, transportation and disposal of hazardous materials or substances in end-of-life vehicles.



	For more information please contact info@autorecyclers.ca Canadian Auto Recyclers' Environmental Code was developed by the Automotive Recyclers of Canada.
		© Copyright 2012 Automotive Recyclers of Canada