Ten containers being sent from Australia to Malaysia have been intercepted by customs agents. The shipment contained 280 tonnes of tyre waste, which authorities allege was being illegally sent overseas.
Yahoo News understands the matter remains under active investigation. Few details have been released by the Department of Environment (DCCEEW) or Border Security, other than that it was intercepted last month in Sydney.
Pictures supplied by DCCEEW show bales of tyre waste and bags filled with shredded rubber piled inside shipping containers.
Because the waste was deemed to be non-compliant, the tyre exporter was ordered to collect the containers at their own cost. It now faces paying for the container detention, inspection and transport costs, which DCCEEW believes could exceed $30,000.
DCCEEW alleges the 280-tonne shipment was in contravention of the Recycling and Waste Reduction (RAWR) Act 2020 and the Recycling and Waste Reduction (Export—Waste Tyres) Rules 2021. Source: DCCEEW
Illegal tyre waste can harm human health
Like glass, plastic and paper waste, there are stringent rules on processing used tyres. Some ways tyres can legally be exported include when they’re attached to a vehicle, destined to become retreads, or already processed into crumbs, a process that enables them to be used in fuel or construction.
Speaking generally about tyre waste, DCCEEW said exporters will often “take advantage” by sending “illegal waste” to markets that don’t have the same recycling standards as Australia.
“[They] are driven by higher profits at the expense of the environment,” a spokesperson said.
“Tyre exporters need to be vigilant and source end-of-life tyres that are processed correctly and always ensure they comply with licence conditions and Australia’s waste export legislation.”
Since 2020, DCCEEW has stopped around 1,700 tonnes of tyres from leaving the country. It warned that the waste could have harmed the environment or even human health.
Companies found to have exported tyres overseas illegally face fines of $990,000, and individuals $198,000. Jail terms of five years can also apply.
Love Australia’s weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week’s best stories.
