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When an old car is left to rust on a property—whether tucked behind a warehouse or forgotten in a commercial lot—it becomes more than just an eyesore. Abandoned vehicles pose serious environmental risks, especially in places like Burnaby, where sustainability is top of mind. From leaking fluids that pollute the soil to rusting metal that contaminates water systems, derelict vehicles quietly wreak havoc on the local ecosystem.

If you manage a commercial property, work in industrial operations, or simply want to do your part for the environment, understanding the environmental toll of neglected vehicles is the first step. The second? Ensuring proper scrap car removal through a licensed and responsible provider like Nova Cash for Cars.

How Abandoned Cars Harm the Environment

Old vehicles contain a cocktail of toxic fluids and materials—motor oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, gasoline, and even battery acid. When a car is left outdoors for months or years, these substances can begin to leak. Unlike in a controlled recycling environment, where fluids are drained safely, abandoned vehicles slowly release pollutants directly into the ground.

Soil Contamination

Burnaby’s natural beauty and green spaces are among its most prized features. But when cars sit idle for too long, the soil beneath them pays the price. Oil and coolant leaks, for example, can render the soil barren, killing off vegetation and disrupting the habitat of beneficial insects and microorganisms. Worse still, contaminated soil can remain toxic for years, making site clean-up costly and time-consuming for commercial landowners.

Water Pollution

Contaminants don’t stop at the soil’s surface. When rainwater washes over a decaying car, it carries harmful chemicals into storm drains, ditches, and local waterways. Over time, this runoff can pollute streams, rivers, and even groundwater—affecting not only the environment but also the quality of water Burnaby residents rely on.

For commercial businesses, this type of pollution could lead to fines, cleanup liabilities, or reputational damage, especially if the vehicle is abandoned on or near your property.

Air Quality and Visual Pollution

While leaking fluids are a hidden danger, the rusting metal of a vehicle also breaks down over time, releasing airborne particles into the atmosphere. These pollutants contribute to poor air quality and add to urban blight—an issue Burnaby works hard to avoid as part of its commitment to clean, livable neighbourhoods.

Abandoned vehicles also lower the visual appeal of commercial zones. For businesses that rely on foot traffic, appearance matters. A rusting car in your parking lot or back alley doesn’t exactly shout professionalism. Taking steps to remove it shows you care about your property—and the broader community.

Wildlife at Risk

Burnaby’s parks and green belts are home to many species of birds, small mammals, and amphibians. An old car might seem like a good shelter to some animals, but it’s a trap. Once inside, wildlife can get caught, poisoned by residues, or injured by sharp metal edges. For businesses located near nature corridors, this can create unexpected hazards and attract unwanted attention from conservation groups or bylaw officers.

The Right Way to Remove an Old Vehicle

Removing an old vehicle isn’t as simple as towing it away and dumping it. Proper scrap car removal ensures that the vehicle is dismantled responsibly. At Nova Cash for Cars, the process includes:

• Draining and disposing of fluids according to environmental regulations
• Recycling usable metal and auto parts
• Safe disposal of non-recyclables like batteries, tires, and plastics
• Paperwork to confirm legal transfer and eco-friendly disposal

This isn’t just the ethical route—it’s also the legal one. British Columbia has strict guidelines when it comes to disposing of vehicles. Working with a local provider helps businesses stay compliant and avoid potential fines.

Why Commercial Businesses Should Act Now

If you manage a fleet, operate a construction yard, or lease commercial space, having derelict vehicles on-site can lead to a host of problems: environmental violations, pest infestations, property damage, and even tenant complaints. The sooner you deal with it, the better—for your reputation, your bottom line, and the planet.

Businesses in Burnaby have a responsibility to lead by example. Sustainable practices aren’t just a trend—they’re the way forward. Taking steps to dispose of old vehicles properly shows your customers, employees, and neighbours that you take environmental stewardship seriously.

Read more: Car Recycling Regulations in British Columbia

Call Nova Cash for Cars: Your Local Scrap Car Removal Experts

Don’t let an abandoned vehicle become a long-term liability. Nova Cash for Cars makes the process easy, eco-friendly, and efficient for Burnaby businesses. Whether you’ve got one rusting truck or an entire lot of scrap cars, our team will handle the job with professionalism and care.

Call today to schedule a pick-up and get cash in hand—while doing your part for a cleaner, greener Burnaby.

Nova Cash for Cars
✔ Fast & Free Pickup
✔ Eco-Friendly Vehicle Disposal
✔ Top Dollar Paid for Scrap Cars

Protect your property. Support sustainability. Choose responsible scrap car removal with Nova Cash for Cars.