Recycled

Cars

Background Information

A car is a major investment, not only for the purchaser in terms of initial cost and upkeep, but also in terms of resources consumption. Yet despite these costs, a car is an investment that is discarded in a relatively short time. What can be done with "dead" cars in order to reclaim some of the resources used in producing them?

In this activity, students will investigate that fate of "dead" cars and consider options for recycling them.

Recycled Cars

Student Activities

1. Local: Interview local car towing business:

a Look in a phone book for a car towing business.

b. Make an appointment to interview the owner/manager. Ask questions such as:

2. Non-local: Obtain information on car recycling in another larger city:

a. Obtain a phone book for a larger city, such as Denver, Chicago, or one near bye.

b. Phone the business.

c. Tell them what your project is.

d. Ask for their email address and cooperation in providing you with information.

e. Use email to communicate with them.

f. Ask questions such as:

3. Analysis

a. What does it cost to recycle each car?

b. What is paid for each car's recycled parts?

c. Is it economically efficient to recycle cars in a location like your town?

d. Is it economically efficient to recycle cars in a location like Chicago, Denver, or the town you picked?

e. What is the break even point?

f. What incentives could be added to recycle "dead" cars?

Recycled Cars

Teachers Notes

This activity may be done individually or in small teams. Be sure that each individual or team interviews different businesses, both local and distant (or near bye).

Activities two and three could be done with groups of four.

Interdisciplinary Approach: Environmental Studies, English, and Geography