The UK’s export of used tyres has become a pressing issue, with an alarming 1,000 tonnes being sent overseas every single day. But recent investigations have brought this trade under the microscope, revealing the environmental and human costs of these exports, particularly to India. As the problem intensifies, there is a growing call for the UK government to take immediate action to halt the export of whole end-of-life tyres (ELTs).
The Problem Exposed: Waste Tyres in India
A recent BBC investigation, “Millions of UK tyres meant for recycling sent to furnaces in India,” uncovered the shocking reality of how whole ELTs from the UK are being handled abroad. Instead of being properly recycled or reused sustainably, many of these tyres are illegally burned in India, where they are used as a low-grade energy substitute. This illegal practice not only contributes to air pollution but also harms the health of local communities, with devastating consequences for both the environment and human lives.
The BBC’s exposé has shone a spotlight on a problem that has been growing for years: the exportation of waste tyres from the UK to countries where they are not properly processed, often causing long-lasting environmental damage. But it’s not just about the consequences overseas – this practice is also affecting the UK’s domestic recycling industry.
A Threat to Domestic Recycling
One of the most alarming aspects of the current situation is the fact that the UK has at least 150,000 tonnes of idle tyre shredding capacity. This means that the infrastructure to properly recycle used tyres exists within the UK, but due to the export of whole ELTs, this capacity is going unused. The continued export of these tyres is pushing the UK tyre recycling industry towards collapse, making it even harder to address the problem at its source.
Industry leaders, including the Imported Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ITMA), have long been advocating for change. Alfred Graham, President of ITMA, stated, “Our many industry representatives across the UK have long been advocating for government action. In today’s world, it is vital to address the environmental impact caused by outdated regulations, which also hinder our domestic growth.” The outdated policies that allow these exports to continue are undermining not only environmental progress but also the growth of the UK’s own recycling sector.
The Call for Government Action
The recent media exposé has put the UK government under significant pressure to take swift action. The ongoing export of whole ELTs is not only damaging the environment but is also tarnishing the reputation of responsible tyre manufacturers and the wider UK industry. It is clear that stronger regulations are needed to prevent this harmful practice.
Beckchoice fully supports the movement to end the shipment of waste tyres to India and other countries where they are not being properly processed. The UK government must act now to curb this trade, ensuring that waste tyres are handled in an environmentally responsible way and that the UK’s domestic recycling industry is not left behind.
The Role of Freight Forwarders
As part of the freight forwarding community, it’s crucial that we are aware of the risks involved in shipping baled waste tyres for illegal recovery. We must work together to educate our partners in the shipping industry and others about the potential consequences of transporting tyres to regions where they are not being recycled correctly.
At Beckchoice, we are committed to supporting the push for regulatory reforms and ensuring that our extensive network understands the environmental and legal risks associated with the shipment of end-of-life tyres (ELTs). By taking proactive steps, we can help prevent further harm to the environment and support the development of a more sustainable tyre recycling industry here in the UK.