Expanded scheme means tyres from buses, trucks and larger vehicles will also be managed in an environmentally responsible way
Minister of State with responsibility for Communications and Circular Economy Ossian Smyth is expanding the tyres Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme. From 1 January 2025, the scheme will include all categories of tyres set out in the Tyres Regulations (8th regulation). Currently, the EPR scheme manages tyres of passenger cars, 4x4s, van and motorcycle tyres to find sustainable solutions for managing waste tyres.
The inclusion of all tyre categories will enable the environmentally sound management of bus, truck, agricultural, construction and industrial waste tyres.
Tyres improperly managed and disposed of pose risks to public health and the environment. Effective management of tyre waste helps to:
- conserve natural resources;
- reduce pollution;
- cut down on energy consumption; and
- slow down global warming.
To reduce these risks, the Waste Management (Tyres and Waste Tyres) Regulations 2017 place certain obligations on those who supply tyres to the Irish market. Ireland introduced an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for tyres in 2017. This is operated by Circol ELT (formerly Repak ELT). All tyre producers and retailers are legally obliged to be members of the scheme.
Following on from the success of the tyre scheme for passenger car and motorcycle tyres, Circol ELT will commence industry consultation with key stakeholders to support the upcoming change in legislation for tyres.
Commenting on the extension of the tyres EPR scheme, Minister Smyth said:
“The extension of the tyres EPR scheme will ensure all tyre categories are captured under the scheme. To date, the tyres EPR scheme has operated very successfully and has allowed Ireland to exceed its domestic targets [a minimum recovery rate of 70% of all tyres collected and a minimum recycling rate of 30% of all tyres collected]. The scheme also contributes to diversion of large amounts of waste from landfill.
“EPR Schemes are an effective method to increase circular economy and provide Ireland with the opportunity to develop economic incentives in favour of circular products and business models.”
