  The idea of a circular economy isn't new, but Volvo realizes that ideas don't actually get things done. You have to do something. Because of this, they're taking practical and important steps toward making a 100% circular business by 2040 a reality. Their Maastricht terminal will be the biggest factor in transforming a noble idea into a powerful reality.
How the Maastricht Terminal Accomplishes Volvo's Goals
In a circular economy, resources are created, used, and recycled in an infinite loop. A product that's run its course with one person is then broken down again for raw materials and becomes either a new or better product.
The goal at Volvo's Maastricht terminal is simple: Reduce carbon from spare parts and remanufacture those parts back to like-new or even better quality parts. Volvo calls it "creating the infinite loop." They recognize that producing new parts from scratch takes more resources than reusing manufactured parts. Volvo gives what they call a "second life" to parts by reusing old parts and making them look new or better.
Reusing rather than recycling is what Volvo has in mind because they know the value of remanufacturing. Volvo states that remanufacturing saves 85% of raw materials and uses much less energy than producing new parts. In 1995, the Exchange Terminal Maastricht opened. ETM's facility manager, Mirjam van der Zanden says, "We started with a handful of employees in a small building with 5,000 parts in stock. Few believed in its future, but Volvo Cars had foresight. Look where we are now."
As of 2024, the terminal had 1 million cores in stock. Eighteen remanufacturers from eight countries work with them. Volvo continues to be the first to see the promise of remanufacturing to both car companies and the world. They strive for sustainability and, by 2040, hope to have a completely circular business that reuses for the good of the world. And when Volvo reaches its goal, the terminal that opened in 1995 with only 5,000 parts will have played a huge role in the achievement.
Learn More About Volvo's Circular Economy Goals
Volvo is always one step ahead of the competition, especially in areas where it affects the people. Their latest efforts are admirable and well worth learning more about. If you'd like to see how Volvo's terminal is bringing them closer to the goal of a fully circular economy, please contact our dealership.
