Engine oil is the lifeblood of the automobile, and a regular oil change is critical to keep your vehicle running properly. But have you ever wondered what happens to all the used oil after it's drained from your car?
According to a study by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), engine oil is recycled by 95% of auto repair shops and the parts stores that accept used engine oil.
An estimated 1.3 billion gallons of motor oil is generated each year from oil changes performed primarily at repair shops or by do-it-yourselfers. Fortunately, the majority of the used oil is collected and sold as combustible fuel - mainly by power plants and heating. Although about 16% of used engine oil is refined again into new oil.
Oil that is dumped on the ground or into the sewer system, rather than properly collected and recycled, can contaminate drinking water. Studies have apparently found that 40% of the oil pollution in US harbors and waterways is a result of improper collection, disposal and recycling of motor oil.
In addition to recycling used engine oil, auto repair shops can recycle tires, oil filters, batteries, cleaning solvents, scrap metal, plastics, cardboard and paper, dunnage and wood pallets.
One oil company that is taking a proactive approach to oil recycling is Valvoline, with its national call-to-action: Let's Do M.O.R.E. (Motor Oil Recycling Education).
With the recent launch of Valvoline NextGen, which is made with 50% re-refined oil, the company is focusing on Motor Oil Recycling Education.
NextGen motor oil completes the cycle from changing oil to recycling oil and using recycled oil products. So Valvoline is committed to highlighting the connection between conservation and oil recycling.
For each person who clicks, Valvoline will donate $1 to Keep America Beautiful, which helps to protect and preserve our community environments.