According to a recent analysis by the wdk (German Rubber Industry Association), the German recycling system misses out on approximately 100.000 tons of used tires annually. These tires – often declared as second-hand – are shipped abroad in an opaque manner and are therefore no longer available for the circular economy. The ZARE initiative has long been calling for legal regulations on recording these quantities and clear responsibilities for all parties involved in the disposal chain.
ZARE partners like CVS Reifen and Danninger Spezialtransporte confirm the drastic impact on the industry. Osman Dede, Operations Manager of CVS Reifen GmbH, warns: “The shortage poses a significant threat to our business. The proportion of scrap metal is increasing while legal exports are decreasing – this is putting many companies in financial difficulty.” Danninger also criticizes the increasing price pressure from non-certified waste disposal companies and the shift of waste to dubious channels without any documentation or traceability.
ZARE is therefore calling for the introduction of a nationwide used tire regulation with a central register and mandatory disposal certificates – also for car repair shops, tire dealers and car dealerships. "Only if quantities are recorded and transparently managed can illegal exports be stopped and genuine recycling processes strengthened," says network coordinator Christina Guth.
Certified waste management companies already guarantee legally compliant and sustainable recycling. However, to ensure the long-term viability of the tire recycling industry, binding political frameworks are needed.
Press release wdk:
Source: wdk – German Rubber Industry Association, Survey of Used Tire Volume 2024
Image source: AdobeStock_253770145_green
