Currently, the UK generates more than 50 million used tyres annually, with recycling costs exceeding £270 million.
While existing laws mandate responsible tyre disposal to prevent environmental harm, BusinessWaste.co.uk is pushing for a “more sustainable and consumer-friendly” approach.
It is calling for mandatory free take-back schemes for used tyres across all tyre manufacturers and resellers.
Under current regulations, landfill disposal of tyres has been banned since 2006, with the Environment Agency enforcing rules requiring businesses to ensure proper collection and treatment of waste tyres by licensed carriers and recyclers.
Despite these measures, millions of tyres are disposed of annually without being recycled, presenting a significant challenge.
EPR
Business Waste also proposes introducing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for tyres, similar to regulations for packaging waste and waste electric and electronic equipment (WEEE). This would require tyre manufacturers and resellers to accept used tyres back free of charge, regardless of where the tyres were originally purchased.
By implementing EPR, Business Waste aims to promote a circular economy model, reducing non-recycled tyre waste and encouraging manufacturers to design tyres with their lifecycle in mind.
Mark Hall, co-founder of Business Waste, said: “Free take-back schemes for tyres should be the norm, not an option. This approach will significantly reduce the environmental impact of tyre waste and foster a culture of responsibility among manufacturers and retailers.”
To find out more about changes in the sector, visit the National Letsrecycle.com Conference on 6 June at QEII Centre in London. To book tickets to attend or for more information please click here.
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