Australia Featured in Global Article on Mining Tyre Circularity

Australian mining companies are being recognised on the global stage for their leadership in addressing end-of-life (EOL) tyre waste — a complex and often underreported challenge in the resources sector. 

A new article by the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) explores how mine sites around the world are adopting circular approaches to EOL tyre waste, with Australian examples featured prominently. The ICMM highlights recent projects by Alcoa and Rio Tinto, which demonstrate how EOL tyres can be recovered and repurposed into new value streams. 

At its Western Australian operations, Alcoa is working with national recycler Tyrecycle to process 57-inch mining tyres into crumb rubber. The recovered material is being repurposed for use in local infrastructure, helping to divert waste from landfill and extend the life of roads. 

Rio Tinto, meanwhile, recovered approximately 800 tonnes of tyres from its Argyle mine during site closure, reprocessing the material for road surfacing. The project improved local infrastructure and reduced waste by repurposing tyres that otherwise may have been stockpiled or landfilled.  

These examples reflect a growing shift within the Australian mining sector toward more proactive waste management and resource recovery of tyres.  

Tyre Stewardship Australia contributed Australian data and context to the ICMM article, drawing on its experience working directly with mining companies and  supporting more sustainable outcomes for off-the-road (OTR) tyres. 

Each year in Australia, an estimated 245,000 tonnes of OTR tyres, conveyor belts and tracks reach end-of-life — with mining accounting for around 80% of that volume. While formal recovery remains low, there is growing momentum from mining companies seeking to do more with their tyre waste. 

“It’s good to see Australia’s approach to EOL tyres included in this international discussion. We’ve worked alongside industry for over a decade within a voluntary framework — and while there’s progress, it’s clear that stronger regulation is needed to accelerate outcomes at scale,” said Lina Goodman, TSA CEO. 
 “The willingness of Australian mining operators to act ahead of regulation is encouraging. We see the most significant progress toward circular solutions occur when mining companies, recyclers, and end markets collaborate, bolstered by TSA and government investment.” 

TSA continues to support the sector through our OTR Hubs, its Market Development Fund, and industry collaboration. Mining organisations seeking to improve their approach to tyre recovery and learn more about pilot projects underway with Australian mining are encouraged to discover more here.