Lubricating oils: record collection of 195,000 tonnes in 2025
Figures from the Conou consortium: 98 per cent of waste was recycled, representing an economic value of around 120 million euros
The recovery of used lubricating oils is on the rise in Italia: in 2025, 195,000 tonnes were collected, compared with 188,000 tonnes in 2024.
The ratio of oil collected to oil released for consumption exceeded 51 per cent (it was 48.5 per cent in 2024). Meanwhile, the proportion of oil collected and subsequently regenerated remains at 98 per cent: it is converted into new lubricant bases (in Europe, the average regeneration rate stands at around 61 per cent).
This is confirmed by the figures in the sustainability report of the Conou consortium, which comprises (2025 figures) 58 concessionaires, 2 recycling companies, 3 recycling plants, and over 1,980 employees involved throughout the supply chain
The economic value of the reclaimed base courses, bitumen and diesel produced through reclamation amounts to approximately 120 million euros (again, based on 2025 figures). According to the consortium, at current values – taking into account the impact of the war in Iran – the value would amount to around 270 million euros.
