The Australian Tyre Recyclers Association (ATRA) is teaming up with the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) to suggest new actions for improving used tyre recycling. The two organisations have put forward recommendations that aim to improve the recycling process for both the environment and the economy.
The recommendations are part of a White Paper on Used Tyre Regulations. This proposal includes ideas on how to solve market issues, increase demand for recycled tyre products, and create a platform for a future co-regulated scheme.
Striving for Better Recycling Outcomes
FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber said that his members are committed to reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.
“FCAI holds the view that there are opportunities to deliver better outcomes with strong stakeholder engagement, clear objectives and the support of governments,” Mr Weber said.
The industry is already making progress, with collection rates for used tyres at 98 percent and recovery rates at 89 percent. However, the industry is aiming to improve these numbers further, particularly with remote area collection and stockpile removal.
Improving Regulations
Robert Kelman, the Executive Officer of ATRA, said that the Australian tyre recycling sector is already highly regulated and performing well. The sector has a collection rate for used tyres of 97 to 98 percent.
“Australia enjoys a world-class collection rate for used passenger and commercial tyres,” Kelman said. “The sector is keen to continue improving its operations.”
He added that people should not stockpile, dump, or send tyres to landfills when better solutions are available. Kelman called for regulatory changes to help the sector move forward. These changes include removing 99 per cent of used mining tyres from sites. They also introduce new fees for collecting tyres in remote areas and removing old stockpiles.
“We can do better, and tyres should not be stockpiled, dumped or landfilled when there are logical solutions,” Mr Kelman explained.
Future Changes to Support Recycling
The proposal includes ideas for new measures, such as state-based bans on sending processed tyres to landfill. It also suggests improved government procurement for recycled tyre products and more involvement from all stakeholders in the recycling process. They will launch the proposal at the Australian Made Recovered Resources Showcase in Canberra.
Mr. Weber noted that this is the right time for the industry and government to collaborate. Together, they can improve the existing tyre recycling scheme.
“This is the time for industry and governments to reset, recharge and reinvigorate a scheme that focuses on market failures and improves governance and performance without imposing unnecessary financial burdens on participants,” he said.
The ATRA and FCAI are hopeful that these regulatory changes will solve problems around tyre recycling. They believe this will create a more sustainable future for Australia. The tyre recycling industry is growing, and these efforts will strengthen it further. They expect this growth to benefit both Australia and the Asia Pacific region.
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