Used tyres pose a significant environmental challenge due to their slow decomposition rate and potential to release harmful toxins. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy framework gaining traction in India to address this issue effectively. Here's what I found on websites about tyre waste EPR:
The Problem with Used Tyres:
- Discarded tyres take centuries to decompose in landfills and can leach pollutants into the soil and water [1, 2].
- Improperly managed tyre stockpiles pose a fire hazard and breeding ground for mosquitoes [2].
- India generates a substantial amount of used tyres annually, and this is expected to rise with increasing vehicle ownership [4].
What is Tyre Waste EPR?
- EPR places the responsibility for the entire lifecycle of a tyre on the producer (manufacturer, importer) [2, 3].
- In the context of tyre waste EPR, producers are accountable for:
- Establishing collection and recycling systems for their used tyres [2].
- Financing the costs associated with used tyre management, including collection, transportation, and recycling [3].
- This incentivizes producers to design tyres that are more durable, easier to retread, and have improved recyclability [2].
Benefits of Tyre Waste EPR:
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Proper tyre management prevents pollution from landfilling and promotes environmentally sound disposal practices [1].
- Resource Recovery: Valuable materials from used tyres can be recycled and used in new products like rubber mats, flooring, or even road construction [2, 4].
- Circular Economy: EPR encourages a more circular economy by promoting the reuse and recycling of tyre materials, reducing reliance on virgin resources [3].
EPR in Action: India's Tyre Waste Management Framework
The Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management & Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2022, introduced EPR for tyre waste in India [1, 4].
These rules require producers to:
- Register on an online portal and fulfill their EPR obligations [1].
- Meet collection targets based on the number of new tyres manufactured or imported [2].
- Purchase EPR certificates from authorized recyclers who have processed the equivalent amount of used tyres [3].
Challenges and the Road Ahead:
- Developing Infrastructure: Building a robust network of collection centers and efficient tyre recycling facilities is crucial for effective EPR implementation [2].
- Public Awareness: Educating consumers on responsible tyre disposal and the benefits of retreading can significantly contribute to reducing waste [4].
- Collaboration: Effective communication and collaboration between producers, recyclers, and government agencies are essential for a successful EPR program [3].
Tyre waste EPR has the potential to revolutionize used tyre management in India. By promoting responsible producer practices, improved infrastructure, and public awareness, India can move towards a more sustainable future for its tyre waste management system.