Results of recycling design
With the use of materials and development of structures that make recycling easier, we achieved a recoverability rate* of more than 90% with the 1998 Sunny, and a rate of more than 95% with the 2005 Note.
- *Recoverability rate: Calculated based on the definition of the recoverability rate for new vehicles and the calculation method guidelines of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (1998)
- *Since July 2007, we have been prohibiting or restricting the use of four heavy metals (mercury, lead, cadmium, hexavalent chromium) and special flame retardant PBDEs,* while also steadily reducing VOCs within vehicle cabins.
To reduce the emergence of VOCs in vehicle cabins, we have been reviewing the materials and adhesives used in our seats, door trim, and floor carpets.
In Japan, we achieved in advance the voluntary targets set for 2007 by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association for 13 designated substances for which the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has set guidelines for use in new vehicles. - *PBDEs: poly-brominated diphenyl ethers
Development of easily recyclable materials
To promote the recycling of plastic materials that are currently put in landfills as automobile shredder residue, we are working to design parts with a single material. We are also changing to easily recyclable thermoplastic resins and developing other materials that are easy to recycle.
Use of thermoplastic resins
More of the thermoplastic resins Nissan uses today can be easily recycled.
Materials integrating polypropylene (PP) resins
Polypropylene resin is a thermoplastic resin with a wide range of applications that accounts for roughly half of all plastics used.
Six different materials combined with PP resins have been selected as materials that can be easily obtained in many countries.
Structure for Easy Recycling
For easier recycling, we are making modifications such as reducing the numbers of fasteners on parts and reducing the number of attachment points to vehicles.
- 1. Radiator grille
Structure for easy disassembly
[Recycle + Reuse] - 2. Bumper
Structure for easy disassembly + Materials for easy recycling (PP*)
[Recycle + Reuse]
- 3. Rear combination lamp
Structure for easy disassembly
[Reuse]
- 4. Interior trim
Structure for easy disassembly + Materials for easy recycling (PP)
[Recycle] - 5. Door trim
Structure for easy disassembly + Materials for easy recycling (PP)
[Recycle]
- *PP: Polypropylene
Example of easy to remove main harness
By adopting a structure that makes it easier to remove harnesses during disassembly, we have raised the harness recovery rate from about 50% to 85%.
To make materials easier to recognize
To promote the recycling of resins, we are marking resin parts (material identification) in line with ISO 14001.
