Directive 2000/53/EC imposes obligations for reducing the impact of vehicles at the end of their life. This is primarily to prevent the use of heavy metals: lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium during manufacture to prevent them from being released into the environment during use of the vehicle or at the time of its destruction.
However, there is a list of exemptions for certain specific parts because at present there is no valid alternative without these heavy metals. This list is reviewed in line with the technological developments. Latest developments can be found with the European Commission, DG Environment.
On the other hand, it is important to set targets for recycling and recovery. Rules are also defined for the identification of recyclable parts.
More information about it can be found with FEBELAUTO and the European Commission.