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.
