The UK Parliament is scheduled to debate the export of used tyres on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am in Westminster Hall. This session comes amid growing concern over the environmental, health, and industry impacts of the UK’s ongoing practice of exporting end-of-life tyres (ELTs) to non-OECD countries.
The debate is expected to address key issues, including the illegal burning of tyres abroad, the pressure on the UK’s domestic recycling capacity, and calls to align the UK’s waste export policies with evolving EU standards.
The UK currently exports approximately 1,000 tonnes of used tyres daily, much of it destined for regions with limited recycling infrastructure. Investigations have shown that these tyres are often processed in facilities with poor environmental controls, contributing to pollution and public health risks.
Industry leaders, environmental groups, and regulators have increasingly called for reform. Measures under discussion could include stricter export controls, mandatory pre-processing of tyres before shipment, and greater support for domestic recycling operations.
Tyre News Media will be reporting on the debate in full, providing analysis on the key arguments presented, potential policy outcomes, and what the next steps could mean for the tyre industry.
We will publish a follow-up article after the debate concludes, offering insights into how any proposed changes could impact tyre manufacturers, recyclers, fleet operators, and the wider circular economy agenda.
Tagged with: used tyre exports, UK Parliament, tyre recycling, waste export regulation, ELTs, circular economy, environmental policy, tyre sector news
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