The Leading Journal for the Tyre Recycling Sector

The Leading Journal for the Tyre Recycling Sector

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Ecolomondo Issues Stock Options

Ecolomondo Corporation has issued stock options to employees, Board members and consultants, to purchase 1,930,000 common shares of the Company in recognition of their contribution to the Company’s and the Hawkesbury plant’s success

Each stock option entitles the holder to acquire one common share of Ecolomondo at an exercise price of $0.20 per share, exercisable for ten (10) years from the date of grant. Options granted to directors and officers will vest over one (1) year, with half vesting six months after the grant date and the remaining half contingent upon performance, attendance, and participation, vesting twelve months after the grant date. Options awarded to employees and consultants will vest over three (3) years, with one third vesting on each anniversary of the grant date. All options are subject to accelerated vesting or termination consistent with the Company’s stock option plan and require approval from the TSX Venture Exchange.  

“Every person receiving these stock options has shown dedication and contributed to the performance of the Company and of the Hawkesbury facility. These stock options are a show of appreciation by the Company”, said Eliot Sorella, Executive Chairman of Ecolomondo.

WM New Zealand’s Vision for Local Solutions and Tyre Recovery

The eleventh episode of TRR Video Insights from The Round Trip: Tyre & Conveyor Belt Recycling Summit features Mike McSaveney, Executive General Manager for WM New Zealand North. Mike discusses WM’s extensive role as New Zealand’s largest waste and recycling operator and a registered partner for Tyrewise.

Mike McSaveney Outlines WM’s Nationwide Collection Network, the Limits of TDF, and the Need for Collaboration

He details their end-to-end collection service across the North Island and their Auckland processing facility, which currently converts approximately 20,000 tonnes of tyres annually into Tyre Derived Fuel (TDF) for Golden Bay Cement.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to TRR Video Insights & Mike McSaveney

0:50 WM New Zealand’s Collection Network & Operations

1:58 Current Processing: TDF & Golden Bay Cement Partnership

3:16 Addressing the Remaining 50%: The Case for Roading

5:02 Barriers to Rubberised Asphalt Adoption in NZ

6:24 Maximising Value: OTRs & Future Domestic Solutions

7:41 Conclusion

TNU Hosts Information Session on Royal Decree 712/2025 in Madrid

As a part of its national tour, TNU held an information session in Madrid to explain the new regulation’s implications to manufacturers, importers and distributors, reinforcing transparency and traceability across the sector

Tratamiento de Neumáticos Usados (TNU) held a new session in Madrid as part of its National Information Tour on Royal Decree 712/2025, approved by the Government on 26 August. The information session brought together manufacturers from the central region who were interested in understanding the main changes and obligations introduced by the new regulation governing the management of End-of-Life Tyres (ELTs).

Javier de Jesús Landesa, Chief Operating Officer at TNU, together with members of the technical team, outlined the key developments and addressed questions raised by participants.

Among the most significant topics were the new requirements for prevention plans, more detailed and traceable declarations, full traceability across the commercial chain, and the obligation to adhere to a single EPR system (SCRAP), with prior notification required in the event of a change of system.

“This Royal Decree brings a profound transformation to the sector. At TNU, we want to support our members so that the transition is clear, orderly and fully compliant with the regulation,” said Javier de Jesús Landesa.

The Madrid information session forms part of TNU’s ongoing efforts to inform and support its affiliated companies when it comes to the implementation of Royal Decree 712/2025, which will come fully into force in 2026.

Earlier sessions were held in Zaragoza and Barcelona, and the information tour will continue in February 2026.

SIGNUS Presents Preliminary Data for 2025

At its traditional breakfast with journalists in Madrid, SIGNUS shared its preliminary data for 2025, explained the impact of the new Royal Decree on ELT management, announced the updated Ecovalor fee to ensure the system’s sustainability, and announced that Bridgestone assumes the chairmanship of the SIGNUS Ecovalor Board of Directors

During the annual SIGNUS breakfast, topics discussed included the main management data for 2025, although not yet consolidated, the key developments of the new Royal Decree regulating the management of end-of-life tyres (ELTs), the challenges and projects for 2026, and the next year’s Ecovalor fees that will cover the management of ELTs. The organisation also announced the recent appointment of Daniel Camacho, Head of Region South West, Bridgestone Europe, as the chairman on behalf of his company.

SIGNUS also highlighted the main developments that will positively impact ELT management: administrative simplification through a single authorisation model for the whole national territory; eco-modulation in establishing management costs; greater involvement of producers in the system’s operation; promotion of prevention and recycling; and the setting of targets for the 2025–2035 period, particularly an increase in recycling and material recovery.

General Manager Carlos Prieto highlighted that the organisation is expected to manage around 220,000 tonnes in 2025, which is 6.1% above the System’s assigned responsibility, equivalent to approximately 10,000 extra tonnes. This excess collection is mainly due to imports and intra-community acquisitions that are not declared, as well as second-hand tyres placed on the replacement market by Authorised Treatment Centres (CATs). For this reason, SIGNUS is calling for stronger control and inspection by the competent authorities — something already included in the new Royal Decree.

The new regulation sets a gradual increase in recycling and material recovery, which would reach 65% by 2035. This involves higher management costs for end-of-life tyres, which, together with the gap between the tonnes that must be collected and managed and the declarations submitted by affiliated companies, have led SIGNUS to adjust the Ecovalor fee to ensure the system’s sustainability and the proper environmental management of ELTs, as required by the regulation.

Technical Department also presented its main projects in 2025, including the Guide on Circular Materials with Recycled Tyres in Construction, a technical tool for incorporating high-value recycled materials into building solutions, as well as the evaluation of pyrolysis technologies for both the rubber and textile fractions of ELTs. Another one is the GREENFU Project, focused on developing thermoplastic–rubber compounds with applications in sectors such as automotive and construction, and the PERSEUS Project, funded by the CDTI, which focuses on designing a safe, durable pavement that reduces traffic-related noise emissions.

In 2026, SIGNUS will focus its efforts on urban rubberised pavements and assessing the feasibility of manufacturing concrete using rubber made from ELTs.

Gohana Pyrolysis Plant Sealed for Toxic Emissions

A team of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) carried out a surprise inspection and sealed the operation of a tyre pyrolysis factory at Bhanderi village of Gohana, after finding violations of the pollution norms and emission of hazardous gases

Action was taken against Shree Balaji Trading Company, located in Bhanderi village and operating within the ‘Orange category’ for tyre pyrolysis using scrap tyres as raw material, following persistent complaints from residents of nearby villages regarding odour emissions attributed to noxious gases released during operations.

In response, Assistant Environment Engineers Yogesh Kumar Saharan and Kushagra from the Regional Office, Sonepat, conducted an inspection at the facility on the night of December 3. The team identified several non-compliances, including the emission of hazardous gases into the atmosphere during the tyre pyrolysis process, absence of requisite air pollution control devices, and an inoperative Air Pollution Control Machine (APCM) in the pyrolysis section.

The unit lacked mechanisms to prevent or capture fugitive emissions, and the effluent treatment plant (ETP) was found non-operational and abandoned. Additionally, black carbon residues were observed throughout the premises. The investigation also revealed that two diesel generator sets (82.5 kva and 58.5 kva) had been installed without dual fuel kits or retrofit emission control devices (RECD), contravening directives issued by the Commission of Air Quality Management in September 2023.

Written complaints were submitted by local residents to pollution board officials present at the site. The inspection report forwarded to the Regional Officer (RO), Sonepat, concluded that the unit was in violation of the Air Act, 1981, had created an emergency situation through the release of hazardous gases, and posed a risk to the health and safety of the surrounding population. Immediate closure of the facility was recommended.

Consequently, Ajay Kumar Malik, RO, HSPCB, ordered the cessation of all operations at the unit and instructed that its electricity supply be disconnected with immediate effect.

TRA demands ‘Shred-Only’ Export

The TRA has written to Mary Creagh MP calling for the government to adopt the successful Australian model – to stop UK waste from fuelling pollution overseas and secure investment in domestic industry capability

As the tyre scandal rolls on with bona-fide collectors reporting ongoing trade going through T8 sites without any noticeable restriction, the Tyre Recovery Association has called on the government to follow the Australian model, which far from perfect, has at least seen some growth in the Australian domestic recycling sector. 

The Tyre Recovery Association (TRA) has urged Minister for Waste Mary Creagh to ban the export of whole and baled End-of-Life Tyres (ELTs), enforce a ‘shred-only’ policy, and strengthen the UK’s domestic recycling market to promote a Circular Economy.

Some exporters argue that the call for shred only is more about protectionism than trade, as they claim the material will still go to the same final destinations, but at a higher cost.

The letter is accompanied by the TRA’s latest briefing paper, The Australian Model: A Case Study for the UK. This document examines the legislative measures implemented by Australia four years ago and outlines how these strategies could inform policy development in the UK. The Australian approach delivered regulatory certainty, which facilitated the growth of domestic ELT reprocessing operations and secondary industries, and effectively ceased the exportation of environmental waste. Notably, this model aligns with two key objectives of the UK Government: fostering a circular economy for ELTs within Australia and stimulating economic growth while safeguarding the environment.  

Peter Taylor OBE, Secretary General of the Tyre Recovery Association, said: “In recent months we have seen positive steps being taken by the Environment Agency to address the irresponsible export of waste tyres. The UK’s legitimate operators, however, need things to move faster. My letter to the Minister for Waste clearly sets out the reasonable and successful measures introduced in Australia four years ago.  

“Our members need to see the Australian model replicated here, if we are to sustain a domestic industry. If the government is truly committed to a zero-waste circular economy the most efficient measures they could introduce are those introduced by Australia. The case study is self-evident and sets out sensible steps that the UK should follow if we are to really do want to protect the environment and boost our economic growth. The TRA is urging the government introduce these measures to the b sooner rather than once it is too late.”

It must be noted that despite the legislation in Australia, the largest market for Australian end-of-life tyres remains India. Any legislation is only as good as its enforcement, and regardless of the law, if it is not enforced, people will ignore it.

Farmers Turn out in Force for Ireland’s First Farm Tyre Take Back Day

The first National Farm Tyre Take-Back Day, organised and funded by Circol ELT, saw a strong turnout when it began on 20th November at Crossmore Recycling in Kildorrery, Co. Cork

Circol ELT thanks the farming community for their enthusiastic participation, highlighting that advance registration and sticking to scheduled times helped keep traffic moving smoothly and operations running efficiently.

Alan Dillon, Minister of State at the Department of Climate Action, Energy and the Environment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy, emphasised that “farmers play a vital role in Ireland’s sustainability journey.” He noted that this collection initiative offers farmers an affordable and straightforward way to dispose of waste tyres responsibly—benefiting both farmers and the environment and demonstrating the positive impact of collaboration.

Acknowledgment was also given to the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), the Farm Contractors Association of Ireland (FCAI), and the Irish Farm Films Producers Group (IFFPG) for helping spread the word about the event. Circol ELT expressed gratitude to Crossmore Tyre Recycling for hosting the event and expertly managing the intake process from start to finish.

Bill Collins, CEO of Circol ELT, described the day as a significant step forward in offering accessible and environmentally sound options for farm tyre disposal. He pointed out that high farmer participation highlights the need for a well-organised solution across the country and thanked everyone involved—especially Crossmore Tyre Recycling—for ensuring the event ran smoothly.

James O’Keeffe, Managing Director of Crossmore Tyre Recycling, shared his satisfaction in supporting Circol ELT’s efforts. He said that farmers appreciated the chance to get rid of old tyres, and his team was happy to make the process efficient and hassle-free.

Circol ELT also announced that additional Farm Tyre Take-Back Days are planned, with new dates for spring and autumn 2026 to be revealed soon. This ongoing series will give farmers in every region continued access to a subsidised, compliant, and eco-friendly way to dispose of farm tyres.

Continental Utilises Vacuum Technology to Advance Tyre Wear Particle Research

Continental remains at the forefront of tyre wear reduction through advanced technologies, rigorous research, and active participation in industry initiatives

Recent analyses underscore the effectiveness of these efforts: a study by ADAC* of 160 products revealed that Continental tyres produce 11% less wear material than competing brands, demonstrating a tangible reduction in environmental impact.

A crucial aspect of this progress is Continental’s intensive research collaborations. Notably, the partnership with the Technical University of Braunschweig led to the development of an innovative analysis method using a custom vacuum device mounted behind a drive wheel. This apparatus, combined with sophisticated particle sensors, enables the precise detection of even the finest airborne particles not just behind the wheels, but at multiple vehicle locations.

This advancement was realised as part of the OLRAP research project (Online Analysis of Airborne Tyre Wear Particles at the Source and Differentiation from Other Sources), funded by the Ministry of Science and Culture of Lower Saxony. Data obtained is immediately applied to product development, allowing for targeted optimisation of tyre design and rubber compounds without compromising safety or performance. As Dr. Matthias Haufe, Head of Materials Development and Industrialisation at Continental Tires, explains, detailed data on particle quantity, size, and structure enable more precise improvements, thus preparing Continental’s products for forthcoming regulations such as Euro 7, which will set tyre wear emission limits in the EU beginning in 2028.

OLRAP Research Project: Innovations in Online Tyre Wear Analysis

The OLRAP project yielded substantial insight into tyre wear characteristics under real-world conditions using a specially outfitted test vehicle. The vehicle employed a unique vacuum collection system behind a drive wheel to capture particles at the point of emission. This setup enabled researchers to differentiate between particles originating from tyres, road surfaces, or brakes. Additionally, custom-developed particle measuring instruments from the Technical University of Braunschweig were installed at several points, including directly behind the wheels, to gather time-specific and comprehensive data correlated with variables such as driving dynamics, surface conditions, and weather.

Using a newly developed multisampler device, the research team could collect samples associated with specific driving manoeuvres, facilitating laboratory analysis comparing particle generation during cornering versus straight-line driving.

Dr. Benjamin Oelze, Director of Tyre Wear Testing Development at Continental Tires, noted that the intricate experimental setup produced valuable datasets linking particle concentration to speed profiles and showing how increased longitudinal and lateral accelerations affect tyre wear. These insights inform further opportunities to optimise traffic flow and driving patterns to mitigate emissions and enhance sustainability.

Commitment to Reducing Tyre Wear without Compromising Safety

Continental’s longstanding commitment to tyre wear research is reflected in its leadership role within the Tyre Industry Project (TIP), which examines environmental impacts across the entire lifecycle of tyres. The company was also the sole tyre manufacturer involved in the RAU project, initiated by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, which led to the creation of a filtration system capable of capturing up to 97% of solid particles beneath storm drains.

While a tyre’s core function—transferring vehicle forces and ensuring safe grip through friction—necessarily causes some wear, studies indicate that factors such as driving style and road conditions have a threefold greater impact on tyre wear than design does. Although manufacturers cannot control external variables, Continental’s focus on product innovation has achieved measurable results; for example, the EcoContact 6 line delivers 30% less wear per kilometre and 20% higher mileage than its predecessor, providing environmental benefits while maintaining safety and performance standards.

Evonik Names New President for the Americas Region

Evonik, a top global specialty chemicals company, has named Elias Lacerda as President of its Americas region starting February 1, 2026. He will take over from Guido Skudlarek, who now leads Evonik’s Health Care business line in the U.S.

Lauren Kjeldsen, Evonik’s COO for Custom Solutions and Board member for the Americas, stressed the importance of the region, thanked Skudlarek for his leadership, and expressed confidence in Lacerda to advance Evonik’s growth goals. She described ambitious plans for both North and South America.

Lacerda, originally from Brazil and holding degrees in chemical engineering and an MBA, has nearly thirty years with Evonik and predecessor firms. His experience includes significant time managing coatings businesses in Central and South America and leading global divisions such as Silica and Animal Nutrition. Most recently, he headed the Coating Additives division in Essen, Germany, and served as president of the CSA region from 2018 to 2022 before it merged with North America.

Kjeldsen praised Lacerda as an ideal fit thanks to his fluency in four languages and strong scientific and business background.

The Americas account for 30% of Evonik’s annual revenue and host more than 30 production sites, distribution centres, and offices. Lacerda said his focus will be on people, performance, and prosperity. He looks forward to working with the team to expand Evonik’s footprint, drive strategic projects, and strengthen the region.

$10m Plastics and Tyres Pyrolysis for Fiji

Waste management in Fiji has progressed with the commissioning of the nation’s first pyrolysis processing facility in Wainadoi by Golden Manufacturers. This $10 million initiative aims to convert plastic and tyre waste into fuel oil

According to Lucien Hall, Sustainability Project Manager, the project was established to provide an environmentally sustainable alternative to landfill disposal. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to employ approximately ten personnel and significantly contribute to addressing Fiji’s increasing issue with plastic and tyre waste.

The new facility is capable of processing up to 10 tonnes each of plastics and tyres daily, producing fuel oil that can serve as a substitute for diesel in industrial burners, supply liquid fuel for furnaces and boilers, and power electricity generators. Additionally, the plant will utilise carbon black—a by-product of tyre and plastic pyrolysis—together with waste sawdust and paper to manufacture compressed briquettes. These briquettes can be used as alternatives to firewood and other solid fuels.

Fiji’s first pyrolysis plant in Wainadoi

Strategically located just over two kilometres from the Naboro Landfill, the site facilitates efficient diversion of waste from landfill disposal to recycling processes.

Full operations are projected to commence in the first quarter of next year upon connection to the national power grid. At present, the facility is powered by a generator, while the team collaborates with Energy Fiji Limited to complete the installation of a transformer and AVR system for high-voltage electricity delivery.

As the first facility of its kind in Fiji, the adoption of this technology presents unique challenges, including sourcing suitably qualified mechanical and electrical tradespeople. The broader environmental benefits of the project include reducing pollution and bolstering Fiji’s tourism sector. Hall encourages both businesses and communities to take collective responsibility for effective waste management.