The British Tyre Manufacturers' Association (BTMA) has held key discussions with the Welsh Government on advancing sustainable tyre management practices. The meeting, involving BTMA Chief Executive Darren Lindsey and Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, focused on tackling end-of-life tyre challenges through policy and technology.
The discussion highlighted a shift towards a circular economy model, with emphasis on promoting retreading and exploring a deposit return scheme for tyres. Both measures aim to extend product life and reduce environmental impact.
One major regulatory change under review is the removal of T8 exemptions for tyre storage and treatment—a move already adopted in Scotland. Wales is now considering similar measures to close loopholes in waste handling.
Digital waste tracking also emerged as a priority. The BTMA supports the introduction of a nationwide system to improve transparency in tyre disposal and combat illegal dumping.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) was also discussed as a way to ensure tyre manufacturers remain involved in post-consumer waste management. By shifting more responsibility to producers, EPR schemes can help ensure consistent funding and accountability for tyre recycling.
The meeting followed a recent tyre clean-up event in Ogmore, organised by environmental group A Peace for Nature, underlining the public concern around tyre waste.
This discussion signals growing alignment between policy and industry on sustainable tyre management. From digital waste tracking to EPR schemes, governments and manufacturers are starting to converge on systemic approaches to improve circularity. Such reforms could impact tyre disposal practices across the UK, particularly in the commercial and replacement sectors.
Tagged with: sustainable tyre management, BTMA, end-of-life tyres, retreading, digital waste tracking, EPR, T8 exemptions, Wales tyre recycling
Disclaimer: This content may include forward-looking statements. Views expressed are not verified or endorsed by Tyre News Media.
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