For the first time, four major UK tyre industry trade associations have united to demand urgent government action on waste tyre regulations. The Tyre Recovery Association (TRA), Imported Tyre Manufacturers Association (ITMA), British Tyre Manufacturers Association (BTMA), and National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) have co-signed a letter to DEFRA Secretary Steve Reed MP, calling for the immediate implementation of long-overdue reforms to tackle environmental and economic issues within the sector.
The joint letter, sent on 1st November 2024, was strategically timed following the Labour government’s first budget, urging the Secretary of State to use his authority to fast-track industry-approved reforms rather than allowing delays to persist.
The letter highlights two urgent actions that industry leaders believe would boost environmental responsibility and support domestic tyre processing:
Ending the T8 Exemption – This exemption, which allows limited waste tyre storage and treatment without a full permit, was abolished in Scotland in 2018 but remains in place in England and Wales, creating regulatory loopholes that harm the industry.
Banning Whole End-of-Life Tyre (ELT) Exports – The UK exports over 300,000 tonnes of waste tyres annually, despite having at least 150,000 tonnes of underutilised domestic processing capacity. Industry leaders argue that a ban, as demonstrated by Australia’s successful ELT export prohibition, would strengthen the UK’s circular economy and reduce environmental risks associated with overseas disposal.
The signatories emphasise that the UK tyre industry cannot afford more delays. They point out that:
The fact that the entire tyre industry—from manufacturers and importers to distributors and recyclers—has aligned on this issue underscores its significance. The letter urges the government to deliver the regulatory certainty needed to attract investment in next-generation tyre recycling technologies, ensuring a sustainable and resilient domestic market.
Peter Taylor OBE, Secretary General of the TRA, who coordinated the letter, stated:
“When an industry comes together to speak with one voice, the government must listen. These reforms are needed if Steve Reed is going to deliver his important environmental objectives. But, just as importantly, they are needed if the UK is to have a domestic tyre industry that is economically viable and contributes to the government’s stated objective of national economic growth.”
With growing concerns over environmental impact, waste exports, and the need for circular economy solutions, the industry is calling on DEFRA to act now, not later. The ball is now in Steve Reed’s court to respond decisively and secure the future of the UK’s tyre recycling and processing sector.
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