A chip or crack on your car’s windshield not only ruins it aesthetically, but is also dangerous and can lead to bigger problems. And while getting it repaired is ideal, if the damage is too extensive, then replacing it is the only viable choice. In the United States, there are millions of windshield glasses repaired every year, which has a negative impact on the environment.
This problem isn’t limited to windshields either; it extends to window glasses as well. If not recycled properly, this disposed of glass has a sizable carbon footprint. So let’s learn more about recycling old auto glass and how it can help save the environment.
The problem with recycling windshields
The process of recycling a windshield is more complex when compared to recycling regular glass—say glass bottles. The reason is that windshields are manufactured by sandwiching a plastic film of PVB (polyvinyl butyral) between two layers of glass.
There are multiple rationales for designing a windshield this way. Firstly, it reduces the risk of glass shards flying around during an accident. Secondly, in case there’s a collision, it keeps the occupants in the vehicle safe from the impact. However, both of these materials need to be properly recycled.
Benefits of recycling auto glass
Reduction in environmental pollution
Inarguably the most important benefit of recycling old auto glass is the reduction of environmental pollution. It will reduce the volume of glass and plastic that is dumped into landfills and also help in reducing the carbon footprint of the industry as a whole.
Conservation of natural materials
Recycling old auto glass also eliminates the need for tapping in the reserves of natural materials. This means that new raw materials that would have been used to manufacture new auto glass are also preserved.
Energy savings
It’s more advantageous to use recycled material to manufacture auto glass as cullet melts at a much lower temperature, which saves energy. For that reason—compared to manufacturing glass from scratch—recycling old auto glass is a better choice.
Looking to get your windshield or car window repaired or replaced? Get in touch with Auto Glass. Based in San Antonio, we’re an experienced and well-reputed company that offers efficient, reliable mobile repair and replacement services to our customers. To obtain a quote or learn more, call us at (210) 793-7115 or visit our website.
