How dirty old used cars from the US and Europe carry on polluting ... in Africa – podcast

Used cars that get exported from places like Europe, Japan and the U.S. are most often shipped to countries in Africa where they are resold. Yanick Folly/Getty Images

The typical car will go for its last drive sometime between its 10th and 15th year on Earth. At this point, the vast majority are sent to be recycled or sold for parts. But for a few autos, a second lease on life awaits, as a significant percentage are exported from richer nations to developing nations for a few more years on the road.

In countries across Africa and Latin America, old used cars from places like the U.S. and Europe provide vital access to transportation to people who would otherwise be unable to afford their own vehicles. While this process extends the lives of these cars, the practice is not without problems, in particular with regards to pollution and passenger safety.