New study finds the key to carbon savings is closer than you think: your car

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 15:48:38 GMT

As Earth Day approaches, a new study from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), commissioned by the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), shines a spotlight on a powerful yet overlooked tool for sustainability: recycled auto parts. By thinking beyond the bin and prioritizing recycled auto parts, people at home can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money, avoiding tariffs and other costs that come with newly manufactured auto parts.

The study found that using recycled auto parts significantly reduced harmful emissions compared to using newly manufactured parts. For example, research from this study found reusing a Toyota Camry engine avoids 710.82 kg of CO2 emissions. To put that number into context, it’s the equivalent of the carbon captured by 11 tree seedlings grown for a decade or the energy needed to charge over 44,000 smartphones. “Think beyond the bin, your car is one of the most recyclable things you own,” ARA Executive Director Vince Edivan said. “More than 90% of your vehicle can be recycled and reused, saving energy and keeping harmful emissions out of the air. This Earth Day, let’s make greener choices that are good for our planet, and great for your wallet.”

Key findings from the research:
? Diverse part analysis: The study examined 30 auto parts, ranging from headlights to tailgates, across three vehicle classes (sedans, SUVs and trucks). For each part, the study found energy and emissions savings when recycled rather than newly manufactured.
? Energy footprint comparison: Manufacturing a new Camry engine requires 1,615.49 kWh of energy, while using a recycled engine completely avoids this consumption, reducing the demand for fossil fuels and other energy sources.
? Environmental impact of composite materials: By breaking down parts into their materials, the study quantified the emissions tied to producing metals like steel and aluminum. Avoiding energy-intensive mining and material processing amplifies these savings.
? Consumer empowerment: Providing environmental data alongside price metrics at the point of transaction equips vehicle owners to make informed decisions with both financial and ecological impacts.
? Support for carbon neutrality goals: Widespread adoption of recycled auto parts could make measurable progress toward global carbon reduction targets, emphasizing the vital role of local recycling efforts.

This Earth Day, and every day, ARA invites consumers to consider recycled auto parts when repairing your vehicle and recycling your entire vehicle when it's reached the end of its usefulness. These choices are an impactful act of sustainability—one that benefits both the planet and their wallets.

Automotive Recyclers Association Announces Completion of Succession Search with Appointment of Next Executive Director

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) today announced that on January 30, 2024 the ARA Board of Directors unanimously approved a plan presented by the ARA Succession Committee for the transition of Executive Director responsibilities from current Executive Director Sandy Blalock to Vince Edivan, ARA’s Director of Member Relations. The leadership transition will occur over the next nine months, culminating at ARA’s 81st Annual Convention & Expo in Reno, Nevada on October 23-26th. Sandy announced her decision to return to automotive recycling industry consulting during the 80th Annual Convention & Expo. Her plan is to continue advocacy work as an ARA member, and through the state associations. “I look forward to working with Vince and the ARA team this year to ensure a smooth transition as he assumes the role of Executive Director at the end of Convention this October," said Blalock. “Sandy has always protected the rights of the professional auto recycler and worked to ensure that auto recyclers could sell their parts in the most profitable and equitable manner,” said ARA President, Nick Daurio. “ARA Past President David Gold said when Sandy was hired in 2018, ‘What she brings to the table in terms of experience in the industry as a yard owner, Past President of ARA, and state association executive is a combination that is truly one-of-a-kind.’ Now isn’t that the truth,” added Daurio. “We truly appreciate all that Sandy has given to ARA, its volunteer leaders and staff.” The Succession Committee made up of selected volunteer ARA leaders was formed last year by the ARA Executive Committee. “On behalf of the Succession Committee, I am pleased to share with the ARA membership that we have presented an offer of Executive Director to Vince Edivan, and he has accepted,” said ARA First Vice President Eric Wilbert, chair. “We identified Vince as the best candidate, and we are excited to move forward with a clear direction. Working diligently with Sandy, Jessica Andrews, Senior Director of Operations, ARA leadership and the amazing team at the ARA office, we are confident that Vince will be well-supported and prepared for the new role. Thank you to all ARA members for your trust, as we continue the important work here at ARA.” Vince joined ARA in 2019 in a member relations capacity and has worked to build a strong rapport with ARA members and potential members. He has enjoyed a diverse career in the automotive and recycling industries, starting as an ASE Certified mechanic. Later, as a Claims Branch Manager at Progressive Insurance, he collaborated with corporate process and claims audit teams to establish Standard Operating Procedures for Claims Service Centers nationwide. He also gained experience working with industry leaders like Manheim and Copart. Prior to joining ARA, he served as the National Director of Remarketing for The Military Order of the Purple Hearts’ car donation program and served as an industry consultant. “I am deeply honored to accept the role of Executive Director for ARA. I want to acknowledge the remarkable contributions of Sandy Blalock and the dedicated leaders who preceded me. Their vision, hard work, and unwavering commitment have paved the way for ARA’s continuing success, and I am humbled to carry forward their legacy,” said Edivan. “I am grateful to the Executive Committee and Board of Directors for placing their trust in me. I am excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively with industry stakeholders, while advocating for practices that promote the automotive recycling industry and serve the needs of our members. Together with the tireless work done by our respected ARA team, we will build on the strong foundation established by those who came before us, and I am eager to embark on this journey of growth and excellence.”

Automotive Recyclers Association News Newswire

New study finds the key to carbon savings is closer than you think: your car

Automotive Recyclers Association Announces Completion of Succession Search with Appointment of Next Executive Director