Tyrewise’s success praised

The Minister for the Environment has flagged up the achievements of Tyrewise since the product stewardship scheme was launched in September.

Penny Simmonds says the project for end-of-life tyres is on track to exceed its first-year targets, which she describes as “incredible”. 

Simmonds, pictured, explains that product stewardship schemes are designed to ensure everyone in a product’s life cycle shares responsibility to reduce its environmental impact.

“The Tyrewise scheme is a strong example of this principle in action,” she says. “Tyrewise addresses the estimated 6.5 million tyres that reach end of life in New Zealand each year.

“Since going live last September, it has collected and repurposed more than 2.8 million tyres into fuel and other useful products. I commend everyone involved in the development and daily operation of the scheme for their dedication and impact.”

Simmonds has also highlighted the efforts of those involved in the accredited synthetic refrigerants scheme, known as Cool-Safe.

“This scheme has been operating since 1993 and has now collected more than 600,000kg of synthetic refrigerants, significantly reducing their environmental impact.

“We are actively working with this scheme and the wider industry to support responsible end-of-life management of these gases.

“Earlier this year, I received the plastic packaging product stewardship scheme co-design recommendations report. I want to thank everyone who contributed – it represents the culmination of over two years of dedicated work.

“We will carefully consider the recommendations and continue to work with stakeholders to plan the next steps in developing this important scheme.”

Simmonds adds that work is progressing on electrical and electronic products, known collectively as e-waste. “I’m aware safe battery disposal is a growing concern for the sectors as improperly disposed of batteries pose significant fire risks.

“There is currently a high level of activity in the battery space, with multiple stakeholders across industry and government actively engaged.

“This momentum is encouraging. I look forward to seeing continued progress toward a safe, more sustainable approach to managing e-waste in New Zealand.”

Simmonds made her comments in a speech at the WasteMINZ’s annual conference and expo at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre earlier this month.