Re-Refining Used Oils in Colombia: A First Step Toward the Sustainability of a Non-Renewable Resource

Abstract

The treatment and final disposal of used lubricating oils in Colombia are precarious, and there is no post-consumption regulation for their comprehensive management. This has placed our country under international scrutiny for failing to comply with the commitments established in the Basel Convention and for the impacts being caused to people's health and the environment. To address these problems, the company Biochemical Group has installed the country's first used-oil re-refining (secondary treatment) plant, offering a set of strategies that enable the sustainability of mineral oil and provide an intelligent consumption option. The technology used meets the highest national and international standards, makes it possible to close the production cycle, minimizes the use of materials and inputs, aims for zero greenhouse gas emissions, and reduces the demand for new lubricant base stocks. With all of this, and with the participation of all stakeholders involved in the used-oil processing cycle, the goal is to contribute to building sustainable development for Colombia and the planet.