How much new antifreeze is produced each year?
Worldwide, over 400 million gallons of antifreeze concentrate are sold each year. After the typical 50% dilution with water, this yields about 800 million gallons of engine coolant. Between 25 and 50% of this volume ends up improperly in the environment, and dumping by consumers is a major cause of this pollution. Approximately 90+% of the remainder is mixed with wastewater, treated, then discarded to surface waters. Since ethylene glycol is a petrochemical product, its price rises along with natural gas and crude oil prices. Governments are imposing more regulations concerning antifreeze management. Consumers are expecting more regarding responsible resource stewardship. These factors mean more antifreeze will be collected for beneficial reuse/recycling. Proper cooling system maintenance and good recycling practices can mitigate the harmful effects of antifreeze on our environment.
