Stocks and flows of the non-negligible toxic polybrominated diphenyl ethers (BDE-209) in the Chinese automobile industry

This study characterizes the stocks, flows and the associated environmental impact of BDE-209 in the Chinese automobile industry from 2010 to 2050. A dynamic substance flow model and scenario analysis were applied to estimate the substance flow of BDE-209, and life cycle assessment was adopted for toxicity assessment of human health. Results show that in 2020, 60 % of the newly introduced BDE-209 (7,370 tons) entered to the scrap stage, and 29 % will re-entered the social system through material recycling. Sedan and Sport Utility Vehicle were the primary contributors to both in-use and scrap stages. Emissions of BDE-209 are projected to rise to 7,854 kg by 2050 and predominantly affecting the atmosphere (56 %) and soil (33 %). The use and recycle stages significantly impact BDE-209 human health toxicity. Future reduction strategies involve removing BDE-209 during recycling and combining them with emission reduction scenarios to minimize human health toxicity in automotive recycling.