UK tyre exports fuel harmful Indian furnaces

Recycling claims mask environmental damage

UK tyre exports fuel harmful Indian furnaces
Photo: Bigstock

A BBC investigation has revealed that millions of UK tyres, intended for recycling in India, are being processed in makeshift furnaces, causing significant health and environmental harm.

BBC File on 4 found that a substantial portion of the UK’s exported waste tyres enter India’s black market. Industry insiders and the Tyre Recovery Association (TRA) acknowledge this practice, despite Defra’s claims of strict export controls.

UK garages charge recycling fees for end-of-life tyres, expecting proper processing. However, approximately 50 million tyres are generated annually, with half exported to India. Official figures suggest recycling, but the TRA estimates 70% end up in pyrolysis plants.

These plants use high-temperature, oxygen-free environments to extract materials, producing hazardous gases. Trackers placed in tyre shipments confirmed their journey to these facilities.

BBC File on 4 approached a company operating at a compound processing these tyres, who denied illegal activity. An Indian environmental lawyer estimated 2,000 pyrolysis plants exist, half unlicensed. BBC Indian Languages teams documented pollution and health issues near these plants.

Imperial College London scientists warned of health risks from pyrolysis pollutants. A fatal explosion at a Wada plant, processing European tyres, highlighted the dangers.

UK businesses export tyres to India for cost-effectiveness. Smaller operators, using T8 exemptions, can export more easily, but often exceed permitted limits.

An industry insider, posing as a broker, discovered dealers knew their tyres were used for pyrolysis, despite claiming recycling. One dealer admitted exporting excessive quantities, disclaiming responsibility for Indian impacts.

Defra stated it is considering reforms to waste exemptions. Australia banned baled tyre exports in 2021 after audits revealed destination discrepancies. Georgia Elliott-Smith, of Fighting Dirty, calls for tyres to be classified as hazardous waste.

Source: BBC News

1 Comment

  1. There are several places around us that are stocked high with old tyres, not sure where they are heading???

    Reply

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