Major players in the automotive industry are welcoming the near rollout of New Zealand’s first nationally regulated product stewardship scheme for end-of-life tyres.
The new government-backed scheme, known as Tyrewise, will ensure tyres are collected and recycled instead of ending up in landfills, roadsides, or illegally dumped.
It is set to begin a four-month trial in the Hawke’s Bay starting in August before fully operating in 2023.
Leading tyre manufacturer Bridgestone NZ is one of the organisations praising the initiative.
The tyre company has been heavily involved in the decade-long consultation process throughout the development of the scheme.
It’s confident the introduction of a regulated approach to end-of-life tyre management will drive positive and sustainable outcomes.
“We are thrilled with the outcome of this announcement. After years of input, we are beyond pleased see action being taken when it comes to end-of-life tyre regulation,” Bridgestone NZ director John Staples says.
“As the market leading tyre company in New Zealand, we place considerable importance on the responsible handling of end-of-life tyres because of our global and local commitment to sustainability, which is why we welcome the introduction of the regulated scheme from next year.”
Staples says the initiative will see all tyre importers on a level playing field when it comes to contributing financially towards responsible end-of-life tyre management.
“It will ensure that all tyres brought into New Zealand contribute to the development of sustainable end-of-life tyre solutions,” he adds.
Meanwhile, the Automobile Association reckons the scheme will be “revolutionary” in terms of New Zealand’s sustainability efforts.
AA motoring services general manager Jonathan Sergel is part of the Tyrewise working group and says it marks a positive step forward in the automotive industry’s mission to mitigate its environmental impact.
“Tyre stockpiling, illegal dumping and harmful disposal has long been a concern, and Tyrewise gives the industry clarity while also ensuring all appropriate parties contribute.
“We are thrilled the start line is in sight and while it has taken time, we are hopeful this work will ensure the success of this scheme.
“Mitigating the environmental impact of not only vehicles but also the things that they use is something we are committed to, and we were pleased to be able to represent our members by becoming part of the Tyrewise Group.
“We will be eagerly awaiting the results of a trial currently underway in the Hawkes Bay and subsequently look forward to a future where tyres are kept out of rubbish dumps,” Sergel says.
Motor Trade Association advocacy and strategy manager Greig Epps says its members are also backing the scheme.
“Tyrewise will provide our members with a certain and convenient process for the collection of end-of-life tyres, with the comfort of knowing that the tyres will be properly recycled.
“As many of our members will have an important role to play in this scheme, we stand ready to assist with its successful implementation,” Epps says.
