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How sustainability is shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket

As we look to Recycle Week at the end of September,  one of the key driving factors of a more sustainable outlook lies in a newfound awareness of the damage our industry causes to the planet. As our environment changes, so does that of the aftermarket. Here’s how a collective effort across all areas of the industry is setting the standard for a greener future.

Waste Management

It’s easy to throw something away and completely erase any concerns attached to it. However, environmentally friendly waste management is key to making the automotive aftermarket sustainable. Recycling is key. Reusing essential materials for engine component manufacturing, such as aluminium, steel and plastics, is currently helping to reduce the carbon footprint left by internal combustion engines (ICEs).

Companies can take small steps to gradually improve their sustainability policies by utilising the tools available to them. Putting up recycling posters around the premises can help make everyone more inclined to use the recycling bins provided. Customers can even be brought into the picture by offering return-based incentives.

Tougher Emission Control

Governmental organisations across the world are tightening their grip on emissions. ICE parts are expected to be as efficient as ever and in turn, the automotive aftermarket is being tested against their own quality control. Current innovations include both new and used cars, searching for alternative manufacturing methods and greener, biodegradable materials.

Refurbished Parts

So far, used car sales in 2025 have remained strong, indicating that figures are set to reach a six-year high. Parts for discontinued models have faced more demand with a decreased supply available. Much like the vehicles they’re fitted to, refurbished parts are in demand.

A recent report by Custom Market Insights (CMI) found that the European automotive parts remanufacturing market is set to double from $20.20 billion in 2024 to over $40 billion by 2033. Part reconditioning is setting the new standard and OEMs are taking note. So much so that, earlier this year, Toyota introduced a new, specially designed facility at their Burnaston plant that will recycle used cars for their parts and batteries, sending them off to distributors afterwards.

Enhanced EV Support

There has been an undeniable surge in the popularity of electric vehicles over the last decade. OEMs from the US and China (in more recent years) have brought a plethora of new EVs to the market, and the aftermarket has been playing catch-up since. However, new initiatives to educate technicians and industry professionals on EV maintenance have been introduced.

AI’s Role in a Sustainable Future

Longer lead times take up resources. It’s a potential issue that many garages across the country face. With the help of artificial intelligence, technicians can now utilise an advanced database, consistently updated with the latest industry insights. Diagnostic reports have become more detailed and easier to access. Logistics have been streamlined so that parts arrive quicker, enabling distributors to be more transparent with their deliveries. Cars are spending less time on the ramps and receiving more precise servicing and repairs.

Although long road lies ahead for the sustainability of automotive aftermarket, with many factors to consider, established members of the industry are set on the right path. The earlier preparations are made, the more ready we’ll all be for a greener future.

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