Scotland’s first tyre recycling plant has been approved in Linwood, Renfrewshire. Operated by SSH Recycling, the state-of-the-art facility will process up to 100,000 tonnes of waste tyres annually, creating 80 local jobs and preventing 2.7 tonnes of CO₂ emissions for every tonne of tyre processed. Construction begins in 2025, with operations slated for 2027.
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The Scottish Government has approved plans for Scotland’s first dedicated tyre recycling plant, to be built in Linwood, Renfrewshire. This pioneering facility, operated by Renfrewshire-based SSH Recycling, will transform the nation’s approach to waste tyre management, creating a significant boost to both the environment and the local economy.
Slated to begin construction in 2025, the facility is expected to be operational by 2027. It represents an investment of over £120 million and will generate up to 80 jobs, including skilled scientific roles and apprenticeships. The facility aims to recycle or repurpose every component of waste tyres, processing up to 100,000 tonnes annually—equivalent to over one million commercial tyres and nearly four million passenger tyres.
Robert Keay, Director of Operations at SSH Recycling, expressed pride in the milestone achievement:
“The approval of this facility represents a major milestone in Scotland’s transition to a circular economy. By transforming waste tyres into valuable materials, we’re addressing a significant environmental problem and supporting other industries to lower their carbon footprints. We’re proud that this plant sets new standards for sustainable resource management, while providing local jobs, investing in the local economy, and protecting Scotland’s environment.”
The Linwood plant will operate as a carbon-negative facility, preventing approximately 2.7 tonnes of CO₂ emissions for every tonne of waste tyre processed. Its design includes flood-resilient infrastructure to address local environmental concerns, and it will feature an on-site energy system powered by microturbines. Initially using green gas, the facility plans to transition to green hydrogen for energy production.
Recycled materials from the plant will serve as substitutes for virgin rubber in tyre manufacturing, industrial products, and construction applications, furthering its environmental benefits.
The approval of this project signals a step forward in Scotland’s journey towards a circular economy. By transforming waste tyres into valuable resources and supporting industries to lower carbon footprints, the Linwood facility promises to reduce landfill waste and help meet Scotland’s ambitious climate goals.
What is the significance of the Linwood tyre recycling plant?
It will be Scotland’s first dedicated tyre recycling facility, tackling waste tyres and contributing to a circular economy.
What will the facility process?
The plant will recycle up to 100,000 tonnes of waste tyres annually, equivalent to over one million commercial tyres and nearly four million passenger tyres.
When will the plant be operational?
Construction begins in 2025, with operations expected to start by 2027.
How does the facility benefit the environment?
It will operate as a carbon-negative facility, preventing 2.7 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per tonne of waste tyre processed.
What impact will this have on the local economy?
The facility will create 80 jobs, including scientific roles and apprenticeships, while bringing £120 million in investment to the region.