Now, some of this maybe company propaganda, but it appears that the environmental impact of a Prius in the manufacture and disposal stages is significantly, if still only incrementally, better than that of conventional motor vehicle:
Also, so far, it seems like that the Prius is well-made and reliable, and should last a long time. It's at least, if not more recyclable, than average car. I really wouldn't worry about the recycling issue for most of the car in general – there's a great market in scrap metal, and economic pressure that kind of reuse is only increasing.
Yes, it would be better if everybody could get around without a car, but even in the relatively dense and transit-friendly areas of the country, it's the only realistic strategy for getting around. It's going to take a while before transit networks and land-use patterns catch up with better arrangements.
The good is the enemy of the best
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080512170921AA2Btbz
Also, so far, it seems like that the Prius is well-made and reliable, and should last a long time. It's at least, if not more recyclable, than average car. I really wouldn't worry about the recycling issue for most of the car in general – there's a great market in scrap metal, and economic pressure that kind of reuse is only increasing.
Yes, it would be better if everybody could get around without a car, but even in the relatively dense and transit-friendly areas of the country, it's the only realistic strategy for getting around. It's going to take a while before transit networks and land-use patterns catch up with better arrangements.