TACC news

The environment

13 May 2022

Driving change

Each year, over 750,000 vehicles reach the end of their economic lives, creating more than one million tonnes of waste. 

It gets worse.

The number of internal combustion engine vehicles that will be removed from Australia’s roads is expected to grow exponentially. 

The support of governments for a cleaner, more environmentally friendly Zero and Low Emission Vehicles (ZLEVs) car fleet will require further investment and action from an incoming Australian Government.

TACC – along with its Victorian counterpart, VACC – and its dismantling and recycling member-businesses, are collaborating with authorities to identify options for governments to introduce an End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) program to Australia. 

There’s a movement towards Product Stewardship, where manufacturers take a major responsibility for the ultimate disposal of their products. Australia has taken the first step through the Product Stewardship Act. But, while batteries, oils and tyres are covered, complete motor vehicles remain excluded.

The imperative for reform has been discussed with government for many years – and now is the time for action. 

The importance of better ELV management has increased and will continue to do so in line with government policy related to increased uptake of ZLEVs. This, coupled with increasing expectations relating to sustainability and the environment, is an area for urgent reform.

The next Australian Government should:

• Increase investment and research in an industry-led and federally funded national program aimed at proper disposal of ELVs.

Read REVolution: The automotive industry’s policy priorities for the next Australian Government.

Words: TACC State Manager, Bruce McIntosh. As featured in The Mercury Friday 13 May 2022.