Climate change is one of the fastest-growing concerns in the world. Human activities have accelerated the rate of climate change over the past few years.
Improper disposal of waste is one of the most significant contributors to the degradation of the environment. Used cars are also one such form of waste that requires proper disposal.
Disposal of used cars can be done in many ways, such as using car removal services, refurbishing services, or donating the cars.
Ensuring sustainable disposal of used cars is very important to prevent any negative impact on the environment.
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Need for Sustainable Disposal of Used Cars
Cars emit harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to air pollution. Similarly, in used cars, the accumulation of these pollutants makes it a fire hazard.
These cars may also contain petrol or diesel. If left unattended, these oils could contaminate the soil and flow into water bodies, posing a threat to marine life.
Commonly used antifreeze agents such as ethylene glycol that are used in cars are also harmful when accumulated. Car batteries contain lead which causes rapid leaching of soil.
These are just some of the environmental hazards posed by improper disposal of used cars. The parts of the car can negatively affect the soil, air, and water in a number of different ways.
Hence, sustainable and eco-friendly disposal methods of used cars are very much needed to ensure environmental safety.
Effect on Humans
The improper disposal of used cars not only affects the environment but also affects human beings.
The motor or engine oil used in cars accumulates several toxic chemicals over a period of time. These chemicals include arsenic and chromium. Exposure to these chemicals can cause cancer in humans.
Car batteries contain lead and nickel. These elements affect the human lungs and kidneys, causing kidney diseases and lung cancer.
The most commonly used antifreeze agent in car radiators is ethylene glycol. Exposure to ethylene glycol can affect the respiratory tract of humans.
Accidental consumption of ethylene glycol causes ethylene glycol poisoning. Ethylene glycol poisoning is a dangerous condition that could prove to be fatal.
Even the paints on used cars pose health risks to humans. These paints contain substances like acetone and benzene. Acetone causes irritation in the nose and eyes when inhaled.
Exposure to benzene can cause irritation on the skin as well as inflammation. Prolonged exposure to benzene can also cause anemia.
Ways to Sustainably Dispose of Used Cars
One of the most sustainable ways to dispose of used cars is by reselling or donating. By reselling or donating your used car, you can ensure that no harm is caused to the environment as the car will be reused.
There are certain services available such as car removal services. The most significant advantage of these services is that they ensure the safe disposal of used cars.
Before disposal, the used car is checked to see if any of its parts can be recycled. Hence, all efforts are made to reduce the percentage of waste generated.
Some dealers offer trade options. Hence, instead of completely disposing of your used car, you can trade your used car for a new car. The trade option again reduces disposal rates as most of these used cars will be recycled.
Final Words
It is the moral responsibility of every human being to control the human contribution to environmental pollution and degradation.
Sustainable disposal of used cars is one such step that can significantly reduce the impact of human activities on the environment.
