Today there are 10,000 dismantlers in North America. 20% of the cars entering the dismantling process are computerized and represent the target models. From the 200 shredders in North America, three different components can be identified: ferrous (sent to the Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs)), non-ferrous (sent to the non-ferrous sorters) and, auto-shredder residue (landfilled). The 1999 EAF data show that the auto-recycling sector produces 45 million metric tons of steel and approximately 37% of domestic ferrous scrap. Gasses from facility stacks and EAF dust (including mercury, lead and cadmium) are the key sources of pollutants from the shredding facilities. 

Some of the principal applications of automotive mercury are in convenience lights, anti-lock brake systems, headlamps and, switches. However, mercury switches account for 99% of the mercury used in vehicles. The Ecology Center denounces the fact that domestic automakers have never disclosed their historic mercury use and points out that programs like EPR are impossible without that data.

There are some financial burdens that need to be considered with an EPR system. Staff time, material, shipping and retirement are the principal costs. Financial assistance must represent the true cost of recovery and program success should not depend on taxpayers and state agencies to. 

The Ecology Center recommends that the automotive industry immediately eliminate the use of mercury switches, take responsibility for removing and properly managing mercury switches, phase out other uses for mercury in automobiles, and label new vehicles (and containing parts) for mercury-added products.