The TRA challenges clarity of new Defra waste tyre charges

The UK’s Tyre Recovery Association (TRA) has reservedly given its support to Defra’s new policy paper confirming the end of the T8 waste exemption for tyre processing. Therefore, closing what the TRA believes was a “exploited loophole” in the UK’s waste regulations.

At the same time TRA has expressed its frustration at the lack of a firm implementation timeline and has raised its concerns over new charges associated with a regime that is set to be scrapped.

The new Defra’s policy paper outlines plans, to reform the waste exemption system, including the imminent removal of the T8 exemption, which currently allows limited treatment of end-of-life tyres without the need for a full environmental permit.

Peter Taylor OBE, secretary general of the TRA, said: “The new Defra waste policy paper is very welcome and it’s is good to see the intention to remove the T8 exemption stated so clearly. As we have been campaigning for this for a long time and its a crucial step towards preventing the uncontrolled and environmentally damaging export of whole end-of-life tyres (ELTs) from the UK.

“However, the exact timeline for this change, particularly regarding the ‘three-month transition period (time until regulations come into force, once made)’ mentioned, requires urgent clarity. Our industry needs a firm, unequivocal date of when those regulations are made to properly prepare for and implement these vital reforms.”

The TRA has also criticised what it describes as ‘contradictory’ guidance that has been issued just weeks earlier by the Environment Agency, which introduced new permitting charges for T8 activities despite the exemption’s impending removal.

Peter adds “This lack of clear messaging creates confusion within the industry and risks undermining the very reforms we need if the government is going to achieve its objective of a zero-waste circular economy. We have seen EuRIC make a definitive announcement to end the export of whole end-of-life tyres, recognising the severe environmental and social impacts this practice inflicts on importing nations.

“Currently, the arbitrary and subjective definition of ‘waste’ often allows for dangerous loopholes, enabling millions of UK waste tyres to be exported to nations like India, where too often they do not end up at the stated destination on the export licence.

“It is not only sensible but essential for the UK to reform its waste export regulations in lockstep with the EU. Without such alignment, we risk simply displacing the problem, allowing unscrupulous operators to find new routes for illegal and environmentally destructive exports. A unified approach is critical to genuinely tackle this issue and ensure that our waste is managed responsibly, both at home and abroad.”

The TRA remains committed to helping build a system that is robust, transparent and sustainable and feels the end of T8 must be backed by clear timelines, strong enforcement and international coordination. Only then can the industry end the environmental harm caused by rogue exports and build a truly circular economy for tyres.