In 2022, the National Consortium of Used Oils (Conou) amassed 181,000 tons of used lubricating oil, representing the entirety of the collectibles. Over 98% of the harvest was regenerated, yielding 118 thousand tons of new hydrocarbon bases and over 38 thousand tons of bitumen and gas oils. The activity had positive economic and social effects, including a savings of approximately 130 million euros on the oil bill due to avoided crude oil importation, a substantial economic influence, and the employment of 1,216 individuals. The Conou Supply Chain is an example of Circular Economy excellence not just in Italy, but also in Europe, where only 61% of used oil collected is regenerated and a substantial portion is burnt. In Italy, on the other hand, not a single drop of hazardous waste is released into the environment; instead, everything is regenerated and converted into a new valuable resource.
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