The environment (and your wallet) can breathe a sigh of relief as secondhand car parts become the norm

New legislation favours secondhand car parts

The transport industry has long been recognised as the big bad wolf in the tale of our environment. We all know of the high fossil fuel consumption and the significant contribution to air pollution but what you might not know about is the high turn over of parts. In France 98% of replacement parts are brand new! This not only demands more fossil fuels for production but what happens to removed parts? The scrapheap, otherwise known as landfill.

The government’s environment and energy department is looking to address this wasteful, ‘disposable’ attitude. Since 1st January 2017, a new law states that motorists must be made aware of the availability of parts from the circular economy*. Rather than automatically replacing parts with new, vehicle owners will have the right to request secondhand parts be fitted by their mechanics.

All secondhand parts will be tested, vetted, recorded and guaranteed, unlike secondhand parts bought from individuals or certain online stores. Complete safety and peace of mind, reduced costs and actively reducing our negative impact on the environment; it’s a win-win-win situation! So next time you have to visit the mechanic, make sure you are made aware of your options! Brand new is not always better!

*According to the Ellen Macarthur Foundation, a circular economy is:

“restorative and regenerative by design… [It] aims to keep products, components and materials at their highest utility and value at all times”

Find out more here.

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