A systems dynamic perspective on the development of recycling strategy for end-of-life vehicles

Sustainability in the motor vehicle industry is an increasingly important topic. Popular opinion in Europe is giving increasing attention to this issue. This research paper considers the adoption of a systems dynamic model for the management of natural resources to the exploration and analysis of the development of recycling strategies by car manufacturers in Europe. The systems dynamics model for the management of natural resources that has been selected grew from the environmental movement that emerged in the early 1970s. The model deals with natural resources and related issues such as recycling and regeneration. As such, it should be applicable to the key issue of end-of-life vehicle (ELV) handling in general, and ELV recycling in particular. The model discusses the decision-making processes underlying actions by organisations on resource usage. In order to apply this model to ELV handling it is necessary to further develop the model itself. This expanded model is then applied to ELV recycling through an examination of the actual practices of European car manufacturers. Car manufacturers in Europe have adopted a wide variety of strategies towards ELV recycling. This paper attempts to explain the reasons for this and hence improve understanding of how this issue might be better approached in the future by both car manufacturers themselves and those seeking to increase sustainability.