In use, Volvo was the first in the world to introduce into production a three-way catalytic converter with a Lambda sond, now called oxygen sensor, in 1976. The current version of this highly efficient system reduces emissions of harmful substances (CO, HC, NOx) from the exhaust pipe by approximately 95% and the search to eliminate the remaining emissions continues. Volvo is the only automobile manufacturer to offer CFC-free retrofit kits for the air conditioning system for all models as far back as the M/Y 1975 240. Advanced electronic engine controls, refined purification systems and cleaner fuels are bringing us closer to our goal.

After Volvo cars and parts have fulfilled their use, recycling is the next critical step in completing the life cycle. The metal content is about 75% of the total weight of a car, which makes the car among the most recycled industrial products. In order to have efficient and well controlled recycling, many Volvo variants have printed dismantling manuals, indicating the weight and material of individual components. For Volvo, all homogeneous plastic parts weighing more than 1.7 oz. (50 grams) are marked with international symbols that indicate how the component is to be sorted for recycling.