Final considerations
In the case of automotive batteries, the reverse logistics channel
works better in terms of how customers become involved, by delivering
used automotive batteries to car service stations. However,
current practices in developing countries have a number of defi-
ciencies. In current situations, small manufacturers do not have the
means to compete with large and medium sized manufacturers in
recycling. The first point is that no mechanization is employed by
small manufacturers. Furthermore, there is no approach to facilitate
battery recycling (such as Design for Environment). The second point
is that small manufacturers could adopt cooperatives for buying or
even recycling returned batteries. Partnerships should be used with
the objective of seeking efficiency and minimizing downtime due to
the lack of components for manufacturing, ensuring continuous
improvement of the reverse logistics flow for small manufacturers
and minimizing transportation costs by receiving components for
battery assembly together with large and medium sized manufacturers.
Finally, the MASP approach could be used by every small
manufacturer so that problems/opportunities and losses/gains could
be observed. The proposed reverse flow can be made possible by