Conveyor belts, a common waste product in Australia, are targeted for transformative recycling efforts by Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA). According to TSA’s recent report, the company seeks to revolutionize the disposal practices of the bulk handling industry, which often sends used conveyor belts to landfill due to challenges in recycling these materials. With approximately 60,000 to 85,000 tons of conveyor belts generated annually, less than 1% are currently recycled, primarily due to their complex composition and handling difficulties.

Recognizing the need for circular economy strategies, the Australian government has designated tire products as waste priorities, underscoring the urgency for sustainable solutions. TSA aims to collaborate with the bulk handling sector to explore innovative ways to integrate worn-out conveyor belts into Australia's circular economy. Lina Goodman, CEO of TSA, emphasizes the importance of working collectively to find solutions, leveraging expertise in conveyor belt management and rubber recycling.

Goodman envisions the transformation of used conveyor belts into high-value resources through re-manufacturing processes, such as crumb rubber asphalt and permeable pavement. These innovations contribute to flexible, durable, and low-carbon infrastructure materials. Moreover, collaborations between industry, government, and business partners are crucial to encourage further advancements in recycling methods.

Tyre Stewardship Australia's initiative envisions a future where used conveyor belts are no longer discarded, but instead transformed into valuable resources. The company calls for collaborative commitment and actions to propel Australia toward leadership in sustainable recycling practices and circular economy endeavors.

To read the full report, proceed to TSA’s website.