Operation Rural Tyre Recycling
In addition to shed stockpile they have been used through out the property as raised garden beds, tree guards and as a retaining wall for the house. In each application, I’d argue that the functional performance of the tyres’ is inadequate.
Not only unattractive they can off-gas, leach a variety of heavy metals and in large quantities pose an extreme fire hazard. With most practical bushblock recycling options being negated by the toxicity of the material, I start researching my disposal options.
In Australia burning or dumping tyres is illegal and commercial recycling has now been made mandatory by many councils. My local councils accept tyres to be recycled but at $8.00 and $20.00 per car and truck tyre respectively (not including my time/fuel) the total cost to dispose of such a large quantity adds up.
I know that many councils are often only a pit stop and don’t actually process the tyres themselves. There are three main tyre recyclers in Western Australia (all located in the metropolitan area). I often commute to Perth so I even considered dropping off the tyres myself. Some of the products they make include flooring, break pads, explosives, insulation and in road construction.
I got in touch with all three and was most impressed by Tyrecycle’s affordability (less than a third of council’s fee) and customer service. Their pick up option was unbeatable for small and medium size tyres and even more conveniently they do weekly pick ups in the south-west.
I will still consider using Tyre Recyclers WA for the larger truck and tractor tyres. They also offer a Country Run service (with a Controlled Waste Tracking fee) however, at up to $54 per tyre I will certainly be saving up!
I will update the project when the tyres have been collected and recycled.
The expansive collection of car tyres. Thankfully the bobcat made light work in removing the numerous large tyre ‘garden beds’.