How to Apply Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Australia?

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) refers to the process of analyzing, predicting, and evaluating the potential environmental impacts of implementing a project, and proposing countermeasures and actions to prevent or mitigate adverse effects. Laws such as the Environmental Impact Assessment Law impose mandatory requirements for conducting EIAs. This aims to avoid the passive situation of “pollute first, remediate later”, and to effectively protect the ecological environment and public health. Suppose a project fails to conduct an EIA as required by the law. It will face legal consequences, including fines, orders to suspend construction for rectification, and, in severe cases, possible criminal liability. Below is a written report submitted for EIA approval for a tire pyrolysis project in Australia, provided for reference.

1. Executive Summary

This proposal seeks to secure a license from the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) New South Wales (NSW) for the development and operation of a cutting-edge pyrolysis plant dedicated to processing end-of-life tires. The primary goal of this initiative is to address the environmental challenges associated with tire waste by employing advanced pyrolysis technology to convert used tires into valuable products. This process promises significant environmental, economic, and social benefits.

Purpose and Technology

The proposed pyrolysis plant will use innovative pyrolysis technology to thermally decompose used tires in an oxygen-free environment. This process breaks down the complex polymers in tires into three main products: pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and steel wire. Pyrolysis oil can serve as a renewable energy source or be refined into additional products, carbon black can be reused in various industrial applications, and the steel wire can be recycled.

Key Objectives and Expected Outcomes

Waste Management: Effectively manage and reduce the growing stockpile of end-of-life tires, which are known to cause environmental and health hazards when improperly disposed of.
Resource Recovery: Transform waste tires into valuable products, thereby supporting resource efficiency and reducing the reliance on virgin materials.
Environmental Impact: Mitigate the environmental impact of tire disposal by reducing landfill usage and preventing the release of harmful chemicals and gases associated with tire burning.
Economic Growth: Generate economic benefits through job creation in the recycling sector, support local industries with recovered materials, and foster technological innovation.

Alignment with EPA’s Environmental Goals

This proposal aligns with EPA NSW’s environmental objectives by promoting sustainable waste management practices and advancing circular economy principles. The pyrolysis plant will adhere to stringent environmental regulations, including emissions control and waste handling procedures, to ensure minimal environmental impact. By converting tire waste into useful products, the project supports EPA’s goals of reducing landfill waste, conserving resources, and encouraging innovative solutions for environmental challenges. By approving this proposal, the EPA will support a forward-thinking solution that addresses the tire waste problem while contributing to a sustainable and resource-efficient future.

2. Introduction

Background Information

Pyrolysis oil is a valuable product derived from the pyrolysis process, a thermochemical decomposition of organic materials at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen. When applied to end-of-life tires, pyrolysis technology heats the tires to approximately 400-600°C, breaking down their complex rubber polymers into simpler hydrocarbons. This process produces three main byproducts: pyrolysis oil, which can be used as an alternative fuel or further refined into various chemical products; carbon black(Edun, 2021), which can be used as a reinforcement material in new tires or other industrial applications; and steel wire, which can be recycled into new products.

Figure 1: Scrap Tire (Rubber) Pyrolysis Production

The use of pyrolysis for tire recycling presents a sustainable alternative to traditional disposal methods. Pyrolysis not only reduces the volume of waste but also converts it into valuable resources, thus addressing both waste management and resource conservation issues. This technology has been recognized for its potential to mitigate environmental impact while contributing to a circular economy.

Figure 2: Sub-systems

Sub-systems:

Feeding system: The raw material is automatically transported to the transitional hopper through the feeding conveyor. This system can also realize on-line weighing, conveying, feeding seal and other functions.
Pyrolysis system: In the oxygen-free or oxygen-poor environment, the pyrolysis system function is to complete the pyrolysis reaction of organic waste or hazardous waste and convert the raw material into pyro oil, NCG and solid output under normal pressure, low pyrolysis temperature or catalyst action.
Non-condensable combustible (NCG) gas scrubbing system: While to remove the acid components in NCG, such as hydrogen sulfide, the pressure is also maintained within a reasonable range through the NCG scrubbing system and further supply energy to downstream.
Circulating water cooling system: The main function of this system is to cool the outputs from pyrolysis system and flue gas with water as cooling medium. The cooling water is circulated in the way of in-direct heat exchange, which does not contact any material directly, and there’s no wastewater generated.
Oil separating and cooling system: This system is to cool the gas phase output from pyrolysis reactor to the safe temperature and separate them according to the different boiling points.
Discharging system: The main function of discharging system is to complete the discharge seal, cool and convey the solid output.
Flue gas purification system: The main function of this system is to cool down and purify the flue gas. Through multi-stage purification and comprehensive treatment, the harmful substances in the flue gas can be removed, and the flue gas discharged into the atmosphere can meet the emission standards in various countries and regions.
Electrical control system: Electrical control system adapts PLC/DCS control system to automatically control the control points. It also has the functions of date collection, calculation, record, printing record, safety alarming etc.

Problem Statement

In Australia, the management of end-of-life tires poses significant environmental and operational challenges. The Australian tire waste problem is acute, with millions of tires reaching their end of life each year(Radcliffe, 2022). According to the Australian Tyre Industry Council, around 65 million tires are discarded annually, with a large percentage ending up in landfills or being stockpiled. This creates numerous issues:

Landfill Pressure: Tires are bulky and occupy substantial landfill space. Their non-biodegradable nature means they persist in landfills for hundreds of years, contributing to long-term environmental problems. In some cases, stockpiled tires can also pose fire hazards, leading to dangerous and difficult-to-extinguish blazes that release toxic fumes.
Environmental Risks: Improper disposal methods, such as illegal dumping or uncontrolled burning, lead to serious environmental risks. Burning tires can release harmful chemicals and particulate matter into the air, contributing to air pollution and potential health hazards. Additionally, tires in landfills can leach harmful substances into the soil and groundwater, impacting ecosystems and water quality.
Resource Inefficiency: The traditional disposal methods fail to capitalize on the valuable materials contained in tires. By not recycling these materials, valuable resources are wasted, and the environmental footprint associated with raw material extraction and processing is increased.
Regulatory Challenges: The Australian government has implemented various regulations and initiatives to manage tire waste, including the National Waste Policy and Extended Producer Responsibility schemes. However, the scale of the problem and the limitations of current methods highlight the need for more innovative and effective solutions.

Figure 3: A stockpile of more than a million tyres in a field near Longford, Tasmania.(ABC News: Owain Stia-James)

This proposal aims to address these pressing issues by introducing a pyrolysis-based solution for tire recycling. By transforming end-of-life tires into pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and steel wire, the project will alleviate the pressure on landfills, reduce environmental pollution, and support resource recovery(Shooshtarian et al., 2019). It aligns with EPA NSW’s goals for sustainable waste management, resource efficiency, and environmental protection, offering a forward-looking approach to the tire waste crisis.

3. Project Description

Technology Overview

The proposed project involves the establishment of a pyrolysis plant designed to convert end-of-life tires into valuable byproducts through advanced pyrolysis technology. Pyrolysis is a thermochemical process that decomposes organic materials, such as tires, at high temperatures (400-600°C) in an oxygen-free environment(Lim et al., 2020). This process breaks down the complex rubber polymers in tires into simpler hydrocarbon compounds(Rossetto, 2023).

Figure 4: Scales of implementation of circular design

In the pyrolysis chamber, tires are heated until they undergo thermal decomposition. The process generates three primary products:

Pyrolysis Oil: A liquid hydrocarbon that can be used as an alternative fuel or refined into various chemical products.
Carbon Black: A solid material that can be reused in manufacturing new tires or other
industrial applications.
Steel Wire: Recovered from the tires and recycled into new steel products.

This technology offers a sustainable solution for tire waste management, converting waste into useful resources while minimizing environmental impact.

Figure 5: Processing flow of Pyrolysis Oil

Project Scope

The pyrolysis plant is designed to process approximately 1,000 tons of end-of-life tires annually. This scale allows for the effective management of a significant volume of tire waste, addressing a substantial portion of the annual tire disposal needs in Australia. The plant will produce around 400 tons of pyrolysis oil per year, along with substantial quantities of carbon black and steel wire.

The facility will be equipped with advanced emissions control and waste management systems to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and minimize any adverse effects on the environment(Zhang et al., 2020). The project will also incorporate energy recovery systems to optimize the efficiency of the pyrolysis process and further reduce operational impacts.

Objectives

Waste Reduction: Significantly reduce the volume of end-of-life tires that are landfilled or illegally dumped, alleviating pressure on waste management systems and minimizing environmental hazards.
Renewable Energy Production: Generate high-quality pyrolysis oil that can be used as a renewable energy source, contributing to Australia’s goals of increasing the use of sustainable energy resources.
Resource Recovery: Recycle and repurpose the carbon black and steel wire from tires, reducing the need for virgin materials and supporting a circular economy.
Environmental Protection: Mitigate the environmental impact of tire disposal by providing a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional disposal methods such as incineration or landfilling.
Economic Development: Create local job opportunities in the recycling and manufacturing sectors, stimulate innovation, and contribute to the growth of the green economy.

By addressing these objectives, the project aligns with the EPA NSW’s environmental goals and supports Australia’s commitment to sustainable waste management and resource efficiency (Blanchard et al., 2023).

4. Environmental Impact Assessment

Emission Profile

The pyrolysis of end-of-life tires involves heating the material in an oxygen-free environment
to produce pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and steel wire(Shooshtarian et al., 2019). During this
process, several types of emissions may be produced, each with potential environmental
impacts:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are emitted during the heating phase. While many VOCs are captured and condensed into pyrolysis oil, some can escape into the atmosphere. High concentrations of VOCs can contribute to air pollution, forming ground-level ozone and smog. To mitigate this, the pyrolysis plant will incorporate advanced emission control systems, including scrubbers and catalytic converters, to capture and neutralize VOCs before they are released.
Particulate Matter (PM): Fine particulate matter can be generated from the pyrolysis process. These particles can cause respiratory problems and contribute to air quality degradation. The plant will use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and electrostatic precipitators to minimize PM emissions.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): Small amounts of CO and CO₂ are produced during pyrolysis. While CO₂ is a greenhouse gas, the emissions are relatively low compared to traditional waste disposal methods. The plant will optimize combustion processes to reduce CO emissions and implement carbon offsetting measures.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): PAHs can be released during pyrolysis and are known for their carcinogenic properties. The facility will employ state-of-the-art filtration and scrubbing systems to reduce PAH emissions and ensure they meet environmental standards.

Table 1: Emission chart of Pyrolysis Oil Manufacturing

Waste Management

Residual waste and by-products from the pyrolysis process will be managed through the
following strategies:

Carbon Black: This by-product can be utilized in the production of new tires or other industrial products. It will be processed and sold to manufacturers, contributing to a circular economy and reducing the need for virgin materials.
Steel Wire: Recovered steel wire will be recycled into new steel products, minimizing waste and conserving raw materials.
Residual Pyrolysis Oil: While the majority of pyrolysis oil is used or sold as a fuel, any residual oil will be refined further or processed to minimize waste.
Ash and Slag: Any ash or slag produced will be analyzed for hazardous properties and treated or disposed of in accordance with regulatory guidelines to prevent environmental contamination(Drudi et al., 2019).

Resource Efficiency

The pyrolysis process contributes significantly to resource conservation and sustainability:

Reduction of Landfill Use: By converting end-of-life tires into valuable products, the process significantly reduces the volume of waste that would otherwise be disposed of in landfills (Blanchard et al., 2023). This alleviates pressure on landfill sites and mitigates associated environmental issues such as soil and groundwater contamination.
Conservation of Raw Materials: The recovery and reuse of carbon black and steel wire reduce the need for raw materials such as natural rubber and metal ores. This decreases the environmental impact associated with the extraction and processing of these materials.
Renewable Energy Production: Pyrolysis oil produced from tires can be used as a renewable energy source, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Circular Economy Promotion: By integrating waste materials into the production cycle, the pyrolysis process supports a circular economy model(Zhang et al., 2020), where materials are continually reused and recycled, minimizing waste and conserving resources.

5. Regulatory Compliance

Permitting Requirements

To operate a pyrolysis plant for processing end-of-life tires in New South Wales (NSW), several permits and approvals are required from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and other relevant regulatory bodies(Sahukar, 2018). The key permits and approvals include:

Environment Protection Licence (EPL): An Environment Protection Licence from the EPA is mandatory for operating a pyrolysis facility. This license regulates emissions, waste management, and other environmental aspects of the plant to ensure compliance with environmental standards. Applicants must submit detailed information on the pyrolysis technology, emission control measures, and waste management practices to obtain this license(Montoya et al., 2012).
Development Approval: Before constructing the pyrolysis plant, development approval must be obtained from local councils and the Department of Planning and Environment. This approval ensures that the facility meets land-use zoning requirements and adheres to local planning regulations.
Air Emissions Permit: An additional permit may be required specifically for air emissions. This permit will detail the allowable limits for various pollutants and emissions control measures to be implemented, ensuring that the facility’s operations do not adversely affect air quality(Gelgeç, 2022).
Waste Management Approval: Approval from the EPA for the management of residual waste and by-products is necessary. This includes plans for the handling, storage, and disposal of any residual materials that are not part of the pyrolysis process.
Chemical Storage and Handling Permit: If the facility will store or handle chemicals used in or produced by the pyrolysis process, such as solvents or cleaning agents, a permit for chemical storage and handling will be required to ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations(Good, 2016).

Standards and Guidelines

The pyrolysis project will adhere to various local, state, and federal environmental regulations and standards to ensure compliance and minimize environmental impact:

Local Regulations: Compliance with local council regulations is required to address land-use and planning issues (Shooshtarian et al., 2019). The project must adhere to any specific local environmental guidelines or restrictions related to noise, visual impact, and site management.<
State Regulations:
- NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997: This act provides a framework for environmental protection in NSW, including air and water quality, noise control, and waste management (Gelgeç, 2022). The pyrolysis facility will comply with all relevant provisions, including emission limits and waste handling requirements.
- NSW Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001: This act promotes waste minimization and resource recovery. The project aligns with this legislation by recycling end-of-life tires and reducing landfill waste.
Federal Regulations:
- National Environmental Protection Measures (NEPM): Compliance with NEPMs, such as the National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure, is required. The facility will implement measures to meet air quality standards set forth by these regulations.
- Australian Dangerous Goods Code: This code regulates the storage and handling of hazardous materials. The facility will follow the code’s guidelines to ensure safe practices in managing any chemicals involved in the pyrolysis process.
Industry Standards: The project will also follow industry standards for best practices in pyrolysis technology, including emissions control and waste management(Gelgeç, 2022). These standards are designed to minimize environmental impact and ensure the safety and efficiency of operations.

6. Risk Management

Potential Risks

Operational Hazards:
- Fire and Explosion Risks: Pyrolysis involves high-temperature processes, which can pose significant fire and explosion risks. The presence of volatile compounds and flammable materials heightens this risk(Gelgeç, 2022).
- Equipment Failures: Mechanical or electrical failures in the pyrolysis plant can disrupt operations and potentially lead to hazardous situations.
- Health and Safety Risks: Workers may be exposed to hazardous substances or conditions, including high temperatures and chemical fumes.
Environmental Impacts:
- Air Emissions: Pyrolysis can produce emissions such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter (PM), and other pollutants. Inadequate control measures may result in air quality issues(Gelgeç, 2022).
- Waste Management Issues: Improper handling or disposal of residual by-products, such as carbon black or residual oil, can lead to environmental contamination.
- Chemical Spills: The handling and storage of chemicals used in or produced by the pyrolysis process pose a risk of spills and leaks, which can harm soil and water resources.

Mitigation Strategies

Fire and Explosion Risks:
- Robust Safety Systems: Implement advanced fire suppression systems, including automatic sprinklers and fire extinguishers, to manage potential fire hazards(Yan, 2022). Install explosion-proof equipment and design facilities to contain and control explosions.
- Regular Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance and inspections of equipment to prevent failures. Implement preventive maintenance schedules and ensure that all equipment is up to standard.
- Safety Training: Provide comprehensive training for staff on emergency response procedures, including fire drills and handling hazardous materials. Ensure that all employees are knowledgeable about safety protocols(Drudi etal., 2019).
Environmental Impacts:
- Emissions Control: Install state-of-the-art air pollution control technologies, such as scrubbers, catalytic converters, and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, to minimize emissions. Regularly monitor and test emissions to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
- Waste Management: Develop and implement a comprehensive waste management plan that includes proper handling, storage, and disposal of residual by-products. Partner with certified waste management companies for the safe disposal or recycling of waste materials.
- Chemical Spill Prevention: Implement strict protocols for the storage and handling of chemicals, including secondary containment systems to manage spills(Jackson et al., 2017). Ensure that spill response kits are readily available and that staff are trained in spill response procedures.
Health and Safety:
- Protective Equipment: Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and goggles to all employees. Ensure that PPE is used correctly and maintained.
- Ventilation Systems: Install effective ventilation systems to manage and dilute any hazardous fumes or vapors generated during the pyrolysis process(Schneider et al., 2020).
- Health Surveillance: Implement regular health check-ups for workers to monitor and address any potential health issues arising from exposure to hazardous materials.

7. Economic and Technical Feasibility

Cost Analysis

Capital Costs:
- Facility Construction: Includes costs for site preparation, building construction, and installation of infrastructure. Estimated at AUD $3-5 million, depending on the size and complexity of the plant(Verb et al., 2022).
- Pyrolysis Equipment: Investment in pyrolysis reactors, condensers, and other essential machinery. Expected costs range from AUD $1-2 million, influenced by technology choice and capacity.
- Environmental Control Systems: Installation of air pollution control devices, such as scrubbers and filters. Approximately AUD $0.5-1 million for comprehensive systems to meet regulatory standards(Borchert & Catteral, 2024).
Operational Costs:
- Raw Materials: Costs for sourcing and processing end-of-life tires estimated at AUD $500,000.
- Energy Consumption: Energy costs for running the pyrolysis process, including electricity and fuel. Estimated at AUD $1-1.5 million per year. But we have plane to use solar panels for electricity and use own syngas for pyrolysis process.
- Labor: Wages for plant operators, technicians, and administrative staff. Projected annual labor costs around AUD $800,000.
Maintenance Costs:
- Routine Maintenance: Regular maintenance of equipment and machinery. Expected at AUD $200,000 annually.
- Repair and Replacement: Costs associated with unforeseen repairs and component replacements. Estimated at AUD $300,000 per year.

Figure 7: Pyrolysis Oil Layout Plan

Funding Sources

Government Grants: Potential funding from Australian government programs aimed at supporting innovative waste management technologies and sustainable projects. Examples include the Waste Less, Recycle More program by the NSW Government.
Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with companies in the waste management or recycling sectors could provide both financial support and technical expertise. Partnerships may include joint ventures or technology licensing agreements.
Environmental Loans: Loans or funding from environmental and clean technology investment funds. Institutions like the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) offer financing for projects that contribute to sustainability.
Research and Development Grants: Funding from research institutions or universities for developing and refining pyrolysis technology. Grants may be available from organizations such as the Australian Research Council (ARC).

Technical Specifications

Pyrolysis Technology:
- Process Overview: The pyrolysis process involves heating end-of-life tires in the absence of oxygen to break them down into valuable products, including pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and syngas. This process operates at temperatures between 300°C and 600°C(Lin et al., 2021).
- Reactor Design: Use of rotary kilns or batch reactors, which are designed to handle high temperatures and provide efficient thermal degradation of tire materials. Equipment should be capable of continuous operation and high throughput.
Emission Control Systems:
- Scrubbers: To remove acidic gases and particulate matter from exhaust streams.
- Electrostatic Precipitators: To capture fine particulate matter and prevent air pollution.
- Activated Carbon Filters: To adsorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous pollutants.
Product Handling:
- Condensers: To cool and condense pyrolysis gases into liquid pyrolysis oil. High-efficiency condensers are required to maximize oil recovery.
- Carbon Black Processing: Equipment for handling and processing carbon black into usable forms or products, such as additives for the rubber industry.

Figure 8: Pyrolysis Oil Plan Area

8. Implementation Plan

Timeline

Pre-Project Preparation (0-3 Months):
- Regulatory Approvals: Obtain necessary licenses and permits from EPA NSW and other relevant authorities.
- Site Selection and Acquisition: Finalize site location and complete land acquisition or leasing arrangements.
- Design and Engineering: Develop detailed engineering designs for the pyrolysis plant, including equipment specifications and facility layout.
Construction Phase (4-6 Months):
- Site Preparation: Prepare the site for construction, including excavation, grading, and utility installations.
- Facility Construction: Build the pyrolysis plant, including reactor installation, infrastructure, and environmental control systems.
- Equipment Installation: Install pyrolysis reactors, condensers, emission control systems, and other critical machinery.
Commissioning and Testing (7-12 Months):
- System Testing: Conduct rigorous testing of equipment and systems to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
- Staff Training: Train operational and maintenance staff on the use of equipment, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.
- Regulatory Compliance Check: Verify that all systems meet EPA NSW regulations and obtain final approvals for operation.
Operational Phase (12+ Months):
- Full-Scale Operation: Begin full-scale processing of end-of-life tires, including routine operations and waste management.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuously monitor environmental impacts, operational performance, and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Periodic Reporting: Submit regular reports to EPA NSW and other stakeholders on project performance and environmental impact.

Project Team

Project Manager:
- Role: Oversee the entire project, including planning, execution, and monitoring. Ensure compliance with regulations and manage resources.
- Responsibilities: Coordinate between teams, manage budget and timeline, and address any issues that arise.
Engineering Team:
- Role: Design and implement the technical aspects of the pyrolysis plant.
- Responsibilities: Develop engineering designs, oversee equipment installation, and ensure technical compliance.
Environmental Compliance Officer:
- Role: Ensure the project meets all environmental regulations and standards.
- Responsibilities: Monitor emissions, manage waste, and liaise with EPA NSW for compliance issues.
Operations Manager:
- Role: Manage day-to-day plant operations, including tire processing and product management.
- Responsibilities: Supervise plant staff, ensure operational efficiency, and maintain safety standards.
Maintenance Team:
- Role: Perform regular maintenance and repairs on equipment and systems.
- Responsibilities: Conduct routine inspections, manage repairs, and ensure equipment reliability.

Operational Plan

Daily Operations:
- Feedstock Management: Manage the intake and sorting of end-of-life tires. Ensure proper handling and preparation for pyrolysis(Sarti, 2006).
- Pyrolysis Process: Operate pyrolysis reactors, monitor process parameters, and manage the conversion of tires into pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and gas.
- Product Handling: Process and store pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and gas. Ensure products are managed according to regulations and market needs.
Quality Control:
- Monitoring Systems: Implement continuous monitoring systems for emissions, product quality, and operational performance.
- Compliance Checks: Regularly review operations to ensure adherence to EPA NSW standards and environmental regulations.
Waste Management:
- By-Product Management: Handle residual waste and by-products according to environmental regulations. Implement strategies for recycling or safe disposal.
- Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of waste management, emissions, and other environmental metrics.
Health and Safety:
- Safety Protocols: Implement comprehensive safety protocols for staff and facility operations. Conduct regular safety drills and training sessions.
- Emergency Procedures: Develop and maintain emergency response plans for potential incidents, including fires, spills, or equipment failures.

9. Benefits and Justification

Environmental Benefits

1. Reduction in Waste Volume: Pyrolysis of end-of-life tires significantly reduces the volume of waste directed to landfills. Tires are notoriously difficult to dispose of due to their size and durability. By converting tires into valuable products like pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and gas, we effectively divert substantial quantities of waste from landfills. This aligns with Australia’s waste hierarchy, which prioritizes waste reduction and recycling over disposal (Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, 2021)(Anderson & Gbor, 2024).

Figure 9: Consumption Tire Report by AUSTRALIAN TYRE

Figure 10: Tire Recovered & Not Recovered by AUSTRALIAN TYRE

Lower Emissions: Pyrolysis offers a cleaner alternative to traditional tire disposal methods such as incineration and landfilling. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to incineration, which releases CO₂ and other pollutants into the atmosphere. Pyrolysis captures and reuses gases produced during the process, minimizing environmental impacts and reducing the overall carbon footprint of tire disposal (Liu etal., 2020).
Resource Conservation: By producing reusable materials like carbon black and oil, the pyrolysis process conserves natural resources. Carbon black produced from tires can substitute for virgin carbon black in industrial applications, while pyrolysis oil can be used as a fuel or raw material in various industries. This reduces the need for extraction and processing of virgin resources, supporting sustainable resource management (Zhang et al., 2019).

Economic Benefits

Job Creation: Establishing and operating a pyrolysis plant generates employment opportunities in various sectors, including plant construction, operations, maintenance, and logistics. According to a report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the waste management and recycling industry employs over 50,000 people nationwide. Adding pyrolysis facilities could create additional jobs and contribute to economic growth (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2021).
Cost Savings: Pyrolysis can offer cost savings compared to other waste management methods. The conversion of waste tires into valuable by-products reduces the need for expensive disposal methods and can provide a revenue stream through the sale o pyrolysis oil and carbon black. Additionally, the energy generated from the pyrolysis process can potentially reduce energy costs for the plant (Khan et al., 2022).

Social Benefits

Community Health Improvement: Reducing the volume of tire waste and minimizing the associated environmental hazards contribute to better community health outcomes. Traditional tire disposal methods, such as open burning, release toxic compounds into the air that can affect respiratory health. By employing pyrolysis, we mitigate these risks, leading to healthier air quality and improved public health (Smith et al., 2021).
Public Awareness and Engagement: The implementation of a pyrolysis plant can serve as a model for innovative waste management solutions, increasing public awareness about recycling and sustainability. It can also foster community engagement through educational programs and partnerships with local organizations, promoting environmental stewardship and responsible waste management practices (Greenpeace Australia, 2022).

10. Monitoring and Evaluation

Performance Metrics

Waste Reduction Efficiency: One of the primary metrics for evaluating the success of the pyrolysis project will be the volume of end-of-life tires processed compared to the volume of waste diverted from landfills. The target is to process a significant percentage of the incoming tire waste and reduce the landfill footprint by at least 75% annually (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2021).
Product Yield and Quality: The performance of the pyrolysis plant will be assessed based on the yield and quality of the products produced, including pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and gas. Metrics will include the percentage of tire mass converted into these products and the adherence to industry standards for product quality. This will ensure the products are suitable for commercial use and meet regulatory standards (Zhang etal., 2019).
Emission Levels: Regular monitoring of emissions during the pyrolysis process is crucial. Key metrics will include the concentration of greenhouse gases, particulate matter, and other pollutants released. Emission levels will be compared to EPA NSW’s allowable limits to ensure compliance and assess the environmental impact (EPA NSW, 2023).
Resource Efficiency: The efficiency of resource utilization will be measured by assessing the amount of energy consumed versus the energy recovered from the pyrolysis process. This includes evaluating the energy efficiency of the plant and the effectiveness of waste-to-product conversion (Liu et al., 2020).

Reporting

Regular Progress Reports: The project will provide quarterly progress reports to the EPA NSW, detailing key performance metrics, including waste processing volumes, product yields, and emission levels. These reports will include data analysis, trends, and any issues encountered. The reports will be formatted according to EPA NSW’s requirements to ensure clarity and consistency (EPA NSW, 2023).
Annual Environmental Impact Assessment: An annual Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be conducted to evaluate the overall environmental performance of the plant. This assessment will include a comprehensive review of the environmental benefits and any adverse impacts, ensuring alignment with the EPA NSW’s environmental goals and regulatory standards (Australian Government, 2021).
Compliance Audits: The project will undergo regular compliance audits conducted by both internal and external auditors to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements. These audits will assess the accuracy of reporting, the effectiveness of pollution control measures, and the overall operational performance of the plant (Greenpeace Australia, 2022).
Stakeholder Engagement: The project will maintain open communication with local stakeholders and the community. Regular updates on project progress and environmental performance will be shared through public forums and community newsletters, promoting transparency and addressing any public concerns (Smith et al., 2021).

Figure 11: Sample of emission report of same Pyrolysis Oil

11. Conclusion

In conclusion, the implementation of EPA standards for pyrolysis oil derived from end-of-life tires in Australia presents a promising opportunity to address both environmental and economic challenges. By establishing clear and stringent guidelines, we can ensure that the production and utilization of pyrolysis oil are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner, minimizing potential health risks and ecological impacts.

Adopting these standards will promote innovation within the waste management and renewable energy sectors, encouraging the development of advanced technologies and processes that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of pyrolysis. This will not only contribute to the reduction of tire waste in landfills but also support the transition towards a circular economy where resources are continuously reused and recycled.

Moreover, setting these standards will position Australia as a leader in sustainable waste management practices, demonstrating a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving natural resources. The potential for job creation and economic growth within the green technology and waste management industries further underscores the importance of this initiative.

Therefore, it is imperative that we move forward with the development and implementation of comprehensive EPA standards for pyrolysis oil derived from end-of-life tires. This proactive approach will safeguard public health, protect the environment, and foster a sustainable future for generations to come.