The success of extended producer responsibility programs is seen with striking examples in sectors where the circular economy concept is applied. In this context, the “National Consortium of Waste Oils (CONOU)”, founded in Italy in 1982 by Decree 691, stands out as a global model for the collection, treatment and regeneration of used lubricating oils. CONOU is the first institution to collect waste oils from users and provide treatment services. This structure makes the consortium a leading model in its field in Europe.
The Path to Success
CONOU’s 2022 sustainability reports highlight the remarkable efficiency of their model. Throughout the year, 181,000 tons of used oil were collected, resulting in the production of 118,000 tons of base oil and over 38,000 tons of bitumen and gas oil. This achievement is underscored by an impressive regeneration rate of 98.3%, significantly surpassing the European average of 61%. The Italian model has set new industry standards for recovery and established a robust infrastructure for the valorization of waste oil.
Environmental Gains
The CONOU model stands out with its positive impacts on the environment as well as its economic benefits. In 2022, the prevention of greenhouse gas emissions of 64,000 tons of CO₂ equivalent, a 29% saving in water use, and a 77% reduction in land consumption are the main data that demonstrate the contribution of this system to the environment. In addition, thanks to the reduction of particulate emissions, a 91% decrease in disease cases caused by these emissions has been recorded. An 84% decrease in sulfur dioxide emissions and a 90% decrease in chlorofluorocarbon emissions have been achieved. These indicators clearly demonstrate the contributions of environmentally friendly approaches to both nature and human health. In addition, these steps aimed at the protection of natural resources ensure that negative impacts on the environment are further reduced in the long term.
Economic and Social Contributions
The economic benefits of lubricating oil regeneration are substantial. The CONOU model has saved €130 million on crude oil imports and created jobs for 1,216 people within the supply chain. This success stems from the coordinated efforts of regeneration companies, which collected used oil from 103,000 locations across Italy. The collection process utilized a method known as micro-collection, accounting for 47% of the total collection. This system involved gathering oil from various sources, ranging from small workshops to large industrial facilities, with collectors enhancing the process by analyzing the quality of stored oils. Regionally, the collection data is impressive: the oil collection rate per capita was 3.9 kg in the North, 2.6 kg in the Center, and 2.1 kg in the South and the Islands. Regeneration is the cornerstone of this system; advanced technologies ensure that regenerated lubricants match the quality of those derived from petroleum through traditional methods. Beyond economic gains, these processes significantly contribute to Italy’s energy independence and foster local development.
Historical Perspective and Impact on Europe
Italy has been a pioneer in the field of used lubricant recovery, enacting its first law on the subject in 1940. The success of CONOU has set a benchmark for Europe, particularly in recent years, influencing other countries to adopt policies that prioritize regenerating waste oil over burning it. This highlights the importance of circular economy principles, which are crucial not only for environmental sustainability but also for economic resilience.
Conclusion
The Italian model presented by CONOU demonstrates significant potential for the recovery of used lubricating oils. By integrating economic gains with environmental and social benefits, this model exemplifies the success of the circular economy concept. Far surpassing the European average, it serves as a crucial guide for future policies and practices. This model stands as one of the most concrete examples of a system where resources are used more efficiently, waste is minimized, and a sustainable future is achievable.
References:
- Materia Rınnovable, EPR per gli oli usati: il modello vincente di CONOU (2023), https://www.renewablematter.eu/epr-oli-usati-modello-vincente-conou
- Agenzia Nova, Environment: 98% of used oils are regenerated with Conou. The interview with President Piunti (2023), https://www.agenzianova.com/en/news/environment-with-conou-regenerated-98-of-used-oils-the-interview-with-president-piunti/
- Lubes’N’Greases, Italy’s Model for Waste Oil Regeneration (2024), https://www.lubesngreases.com/lubereport-americas/9_44/italy-a-model-for-europe-waste-oil-regeneration/
