Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA), in its latest reports on the tyre sector, highlights that Australia risks falling behind international standards unless proactive action is taken on emerging issues such as tyre wear emissions and harmful chemicals. The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is identified as a significant factor that could accelerate tyre wear due to their increased weight and torque. This could, in turn, increase the volume of tyres reaching their end-of-life sooner than expected.
TSA has released two comprehensive reports that explore the evolving challenges and opportunities for the tyre industry, both in Australia and globally. The reports, Exploring Global Influences on the Tyre Industry: Chemicals of Concern, Microplastics and Design (in collaboration with CSIRO) and Implications of the Transition to EVs for End-of-Life Tyre Recovery (produced with industry stakeholders), offer crucial insights into the future of the tyre industry.
Further, the reports underline the need for innovation in recycling infrastructure to keep pace with the rise of advanced materials in new tyres. These advancements, particularly driven by the growth of EVs, present challenges that will require adapted recycling methods to ensure sustainable resource recovery.
The reports also highlight substantial opportunities for collaboration, urging Australian stakeholders to align with global sustainability frameworks to drive progress in tyre resource recovery.
The findings are designed to inform tyre manufacturers, recyclers, automotive stakeholders, and policymakers, encouraging them to explore innovative solutions and contribute to the adoption of circular economy practices in the tyre sector.