Australia bans export of old tires

Australia became the first country in the world to ban the export of its old tires to other countries.

Under the new law, effective December 1, 2021, the ban on the export of waste from Australia will apply to tires. From this date, exporters will be able to export only passenger, truck and aircraft tires for retreading at a special certified enterprise; tires cut or processed into crumbs and granules; fused tires; recyclable tires.

To continue exporting tires of these categories, exporters will need a special export license. In addition, each shipment of old tires will need to be declared with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment.

Earlier in 2021, Australia stopped exporting unprocessed glass waste and mixed plastics. The ban is part of Australia's ambitious program to reduce waste and increase recycling of waste into usable raw materials and materials.