SAFE SALVAGING OF AUTO MERCURY SWITCHES PROMOTED
Salvage operators and recyclers offered incentives

Frankfort, KY (April 20, 2007) --Auto salvage operators and recyclers will receive a joint letter from the Kentucky Division of Waste Management, Kentucky Auto and Truck Recyclers Association and the Kentucky Motor Vehicle Commission with details about a voluntary program aimed at safe removal and processing of mercury auto switches.

End of Life Vehicle Solutions (ELVS) is a nonprofit corporation formed by automobile manufacturers to address this issue. A $4 million fund has been established to reward dismantlers and recyclers for their efforts by paying $1 per mercury switch received (switches do not need to be removed from the assemblies). Free educational materials and collection buckets are provided.

Many older model cars contain mercury in the light switches of hoods, trunks, doors and some anti-lock brake systems. If the switches are not removed before a vehicle is scrapped, mercury can be released and cause serious pollution hazards and human health risks.

ELVS was created as part of the National Vehicle Mercury Switch Recovery Program, a partnership including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Environmental Council of States, associations and individuals representing auto salvage operators and dismantlers, automotive steel and scrap industries, and environmental groups.

If you have questions about Kentucky’s state laws regarding mercury, contact the Division of Waste Management at
502-564-6716.