The Alarming Reality of UK Tyre Exports to India: Health and Environmental Crisis Unveiled
Investigations reveal that millions of UK tyres meant for recycling are being incinerated in illegal furnaces in India, leading to significant health risks and environmental damage. The improper practices are well-known within the industry, with prominent figures advocating for reforms in waste management. Current regulations remain insufficient, prompting calls for action to prevent further harm caused by the illegal importation of tyres for pyrolysis.
Recent investigations have revealed that millions of tyres exported from the UK to India for recycling are actually being incinerated in makeshift furnaces. This process results in significant health hazards and severe environmental consequences. Elliot Mason, the owner of a major tyre recycling facility in the UK, states that the knowledge of these practices is prevalent within the industry, noting, “I do not imagine there is anybody in the industry that does not know it is happening.”
The Tyre Recovery Association (TRA) and various campaigners have asserted that the UK government is aware that the country is one of the principal exporters of waste tyres for improper use. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) acknowledges having stringent regulations regarding the export of waste tyres, which may include severe penalties. When tyres are replaced, garages typically charge a recycling fee, ensuring that the tyres are processed appropriately at registered facilities.
Every year, the UK generates approximately 50 million waste tyres, with half of these being sent to India, destined for recycling. However, a significant issue arises as approximately 70% of these tyres do not reach licensed facilities; instead, they are funneled into unregulated industrial operations. According to Mr. Mason, “The pretence is that baled tyres are being sent to India and then shredded and granulated in a factory very similar to ours.”
In India, the illegal pyrolysis process occurs in unofficial plants, where tyres are subjected to high temperatures in an oxygen-deprived environment, leading to the generation of harmful gases and various pollutants. An investigation conducted in partnership with SourceMaterial traced the shipment of UK tyres to illegal processing facilities in India, revealing the shocking reality of this illegal trade.
Drone footage captured the arrival of tyres at a site replete with hazardous conditions, where local villagers reported health issues linked to pollution from these operations. Residents expressed concerns about toxic emissions, stating, “We want these companies moved from our village, otherwise we will not be able to breathe freely.” The environmental impact is dire, as studies indicate that workers in these facilities risk various severe health issues due to prolonged exposure to pollutants.
Tragically, an explosion at one facility resulted in the deaths of two women and two children, drawing attention to the risks presented by these unregulated plants. Following this incident, local authorities initiated shutdowns of several pyrolysis facilities. Despite Defra’s assurance of regulatory action, many UK operators continue to export tyres illegally due to the lower operational costs of submitting waste for pyrolysis rather than investing in the necessary infrastructure.
Investigations uncovered that some export operations exceeded legal limits significantly, with one dealer admitting to sending over five times the permitted amount. These findings have raised urgent calls for reform among environmental advocates, including calls for stricter definitions of tyres as hazardous waste. In comparison, Australia has implemented a complete ban on exporting baled tyres, a step some experts believe the UK government should consider for better waste management.
Activists are advocating for reform to prevent such detrimental practices from continuing and to ensure proper management of waste tyres that do not compromise public health or the environment.
The findings from recent investigations regarding the improper disposal of UK tyres in India highlight significant health and environmental issues associated with such practices. Despite existing regulations, illegal operations persist, causing damage to communities and ecosystems. With calls for greater oversight and reform in waste management strategies, it is imperative for the UK government to take definitive actions to ensure that waste tyres are processed responsibly and ethically. Addressing this problem is crucial for protecting public health and environmental integrity.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
