Responsible recycling plea issued to tyre retailers

Tyre retailers and garages have received an overwhelming plea for their support in helping to eradicate illegal tyre collection and disposal activities which cost the environment, society and legitimate businesses significant sums every year. The appeal came at the Tyre Recovery Association’s (TRA) annual forum day, where more than 65 attendees heard a wide range of presentations from different areas of the industry and discussed ways to improve recycling rates even further and abolish illegal activities. “This year’s forum proved to be a great success which we hope will act as a catalyst to generate even greater support from within the industry,” comments Peter Taylor OBE, Secretary General of the Tyre Recovery Association. “A number of very positive ideas and suggestions were shared which could help the industry significantly. One of the major areas of common consensus was in the support that our retail colleagues can provide. Many felt that retailers should become more aware about their duty of care obligations. This could be achieved in a number of ways such as checking that their collector is registered with the Responsible Recycler Scheme. This type of simple action would help to significantly reduce the number of tyres which continue to be illegally stored, dumped or exported.” The Responsible Recycler Scheme (RRS) is the UK tyre industry’s tyre recovery programme. It is the largest voluntary tyre recovery programme in Europe and currently handles some 45 million used tyres every year. Under the scheme tyres are stored, collected, recycled or reprocessed in line with all UK and UE legislations. Independent audits and full traceability means that tyres handled by RRS member companies can be tracked throughout the disposal chain. Since 2006 the complete disposal of tyres into landfill sites has been banned. During the forum, the Environment Agency presented their latest initiatives to tackle tyre crime, requesting information and support from the whole tyre industry. Sapphire Energy Recovery outlined how used tyres are utilised as a fuel source in cement kilns and why a longer term approach to their supply is needed. Mike Wilson, president of the TRA outlined why the RRS scheme remains the best solution for the UK market. Delegates then heard about the successes and challenges faced by Spain’s tyre industry which has a very different approach to the UK model. The session was closed by Michelin Tyre who gave a summary about their response to the industry’s challenge. “I would like to thank everyone who attended the forum for their support and input,” concluded Peter Taylor. “After some interesting presentations and lively debate, we must now ensure that we continue to develop the RRS scheme, making it increasingly relevant for industry to help encourage greater participation and a reduction in illegal activities. For more information about the Tyre Recovery Association, the Responsible Recycler Scheme or any of the presentations delivered during the forum, visit www.tyrerecovery.org or call 0845 301 6852. Notes The Tyre Industry Federation Responsible Recycler Scheme is a uniquely successful initiative set up to ensure that all used tyres collected from any designated premises are re-used or recycled in ways which comply with UK and European statutory regulations. It is the largest voluntary tyre recovery programme in Europe. Scheme members are subject to regular spot audit and are subject to the Scheme Charter. Used tyres collected, handled or reprocessed by scheme members are tracked throughout the disposal chain so delivering full traceability and accountability. Assurance of ‘best practice’ at every stage in the process. Useful links Tyre Recovery Association – www.tyrerecovery.org.uk Environment Agency – www.environment-agency.gov.uk British Tyre Manufacturers Association – www.btmauk.com PR Contact Danny Rughoobeer, Red Marlin Communications danny@redmarlin.co.uk T 01295 771107 M 07739 878365

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