Local councils are a vital stakeholder in the circular economy sector as their decisions shape the resource recovery market.
From procurement principles, utilisation of tyre derived products and a commitment to brands and companies committed to sustainable outcomes, councils’ decisions can, and should be, game changing.
As the expectation for a more circular and sustainable approach to waste is expected, Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA) is advocating for more councils to get involved to demonstrate how this can be achieved.
Local councils are pivotal in influencing the entire supply chain associated with tyres; from who they purchase their tyres from, to how they manage the disposal and recycling of tyres from transfer stations.
Furthermore, as councils manage 85 percent of the country’s roads, they can seal the ‘circular’ deal with manufacturing roads from tyre-derived material.
Mismanagement of the tyre waste stream can unduly impact municipal health and environment quality, budgets and business viability of council constituents.
TSA, who administers the Tyre Product Stewardship Scheme was recently endorsed by the Australian Government and is looking to accredit and collaborate with councils who are focused on sustainable solutions for their tyre waste.
Interaction points in which councils can make a positive change and deliver circular outcomes include:
- Specify roads containing tyre derived material.
- Ensure procurement policies support the purchasing of tyre brands that contribute to sustainable outcomes. These brands include Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear-Dunlop, Kumho Tyre, Michelin, Pirelli, Toyo Tires and Yokohama.
- Use only TSA accredited recyclers/collectors to collect end-of-life tyres from transfer stations, thereby helping to ensure unscrupulous operators are removed from the market.
- Tell TSA immediately of any emerging tyre stockpiles within the municipality.
Applying for TSA accreditation is free and a positive step forward for councils who want to be recognised as Circular Economy leaders. Take the lead now and email getonboard@tyrestewardship.org.au to start, it is that easy.
*Copy supplied by Tyre Stewardship Australia
