Old tyres are a common waste item that many people aren’t sure how to dispose of properly. Tyres are not just bulky and difficult to handle—they also pose significant environmental risks when not disposed of correctly. Thankfully, Australia has established various recycling and disposal options that can help you get rid of old tyres in an eco-friendly way. Here’s everything you need to know about tyre recycling and disposal in Australia.
1. Why Proper Tyre Disposal Is Important
Tyres are made from materials like rubber, steel, and synthetic fabrics that do not decompose easily. When dumped into landfills or left to pile up, old tyres can release harmful chemicals into the environment, creating pollution and health hazards. Additionally, they take up a large amount of space in landfills and can become breeding grounds for pests and mosquitoes when left outdoors.
By recycling or disposing of tyres through proper channels, we can reduce landfill waste and repurpose valuable materials that would otherwise go to waste.
2. Tyre Recycling in Australia
In Australia, the government and private organisations have set up recycling programs to handle used tyres responsibly. Over 56 million tyres are disposed of annually in Australia, and recycling plays a crucial role in preventing these from becoming environmental burdens.
Tyre recycling typically involves breaking down the tyres into their core materials—rubber, steel, and textile fibres. These materials are then repurposed into various products, including playground surfaces, road construction materials, rubber mats, and even new tires. The recycling process helps conserve resources and reduces the environmental impact of producing new materials.
Several licensed tyre recycling facilities operate throughout Australia, making it easy for individuals and businesses to recycle their tyres instead of dumping them.
3. How to Dispose of Tyres Responsibly
When it comes to disposing of tyres in Australia, there are a few options you can choose from:
a) Tyre Retailers
Most tyre retailers in Australia offer disposal services for old tyres when you buy new ones. This is one of the easiest ways to ensure your old tyres are disposed of responsibly. Some retailers may charge a small fee for the disposal, but they often partner with licensed recycling facilities to make sure the tyres are properly processed.
b) Local Recycling Centres
Many local councils have designated recycling centres that accept old tyres for disposal. These centres ensure that the tyres are sent to appropriate recycling facilities, where they are broken down and reused. You can check with your local council to see if they accept tyres and if any fees are involved.
c) Tyre Collection Services
There are also tyre collection services across Australia that will come and pick up your old tyres for recycling. This option is particularly useful if you have a large number of tyres to dispose of, such as after clearing out a farm or a commercial property. These services ensure that your tyres are collected and recycled in an environmentally responsible way.
d) Mobile Tyre Recycling Services
In some areas, mobile tyre recycling services are available, where trucks equipped with recycling machinery come to you and process the tyres on-site. This is an efficient solution for businesses or individuals who need a large number of tyres recycled at once, without transporting them to a facility.
4. What Happens to Recycled Tyres?
Recycled tyres are put to good use in a wide range of industries. Here are some of the ways recycled tyre materials are repurposed:
- Road Construction: Crumb rubber from recycled tyres is mixed with asphalt to create more durable and longer-lasting roads. This process, known as rubberised asphalt, is used in many road projects across Australia.
- Playground Surfaces: The rubber from tyres is often used to create soft, shock-absorbent surfaces for playgrounds, parks, and sports fields, making them safer for children and athletes.
- Rubber Products: Recycled tyre rubber is used to make a variety of products, such as rubber mats, flooring, and industrial equipment.
- Energy Recovery: In some cases, tyres are used as a fuel source for energy recovery. Tyres have a high calorific value, and when burned in controlled environments, they can be used as an alternative energy source in industries such as cement production.
5. Illegal Dumping of Tyres
Unfortunately, illegal dumping of tyres remains a problem in some areas of Australia. Dumped tyres create fire hazards, pollute the environment, and are an eyesore. Moreover, dumping tyres illegally can result in hefty fines. To avoid these risks, always dispose of tyres through licensed facilities or recycling services.
Tyre recycling and disposal in Australia are essential to minimising environmental harm and repurposing valuable materials. By taking advantage of the recycling programs and services available, you can ensure that your old tyres are disposed of responsibly and help contribute to a greener future.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free and efficient way to dispose of your old tyres, Amigo Rubbish Removal is here to help. We provide quick, reliable removal services and ensure that all waste is disposed of responsibly.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your tyre disposal needs!