Abstract
The work that went into this chapter was aimed at researching and identifying technologically feasible and economically justifiable processes and pathways for the utilisation of waste tyres in South Africa. Drawing from the objectives of the Recycling and Economic Development Initiative of South Africa (REDISA), this chapter seeks to motivate the utilisation and unlocking of the potential of waste tyres for energy and material recovery in South Africa. The chapter focuses on the economic feasibility of waste tyre treatment through pyrolysis in Gauteng. The authors also evaluate the role of existing policy instruments, transition towards a low-carbon economy as well as optimal energy strategies influencing and promoting efforts towards integrated waste tyre management in South Africa.
In line with the National Green Economy Strategy, West Rand Green IQ and the Gauteng Economic Strategy, in particular the Gauteng Integrated Energy Strategy, Gauteng needs to explore alternatives for both energy sources and waste treatment technologies. The successful implementation of an efficient Waste Tyre-to-Energy and Material Recovery concept will contribute to overall sustainability by improving waste collection management, the sustainable utilisation of waste tyres, improving the environment by increasing resource efficiency and energy poverty reduction, as well as promoting economic development such as the optimisation of green jobs.
The South African government recognises the conversion of waste to energy in its plans and future strategies (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2010).
The end-life of automotive tyres is associated with various environmental challenges. Combustion of waste tyres emits significant amounts of toxic gases and particulate matter, which contribute significantly to air pollution. Illegal re-treading of tyres increases the risks of road accidents and the stockpiling of waste tyres may results in fire hazards and air pollution. Waste tyre stockpiles create breeding grounds for vermin carrying insects and mosquitoes, which threaten human and animal health. Landfill disposal is not viable due to the non-biodegradability of the tyres and the large volumes they occupy in landfill sites. They are also difficult to compact after disposal. Waste tyre treatment through pyrolysis results in four revenue streams: tyre-derived fuel, refined carbon black, high tensile steel and sodium sulphite.
In line with the National Green Economy Strategy, West Rand Green IQ and the Gauteng Economic Strategy, in particular the Gauteng Integrated Energy Strategy, Gauteng needs to explore alternatives for both energy sources and waste treatment technologies. The successful implementation of an efficient Waste Tyre-to-Energy and Material Recovery concept will contribute to overall sustainability by improving waste collection management, the sustainable utilisation of waste tyres, improving the environment by increasing resource efficiency and energy poverty reduction, as well as promoting economic development such as the optimisation of green jobs.
The South African government recognises the conversion of waste to energy in its plans and future strategies (Department of Environmental Affairs, 2010).
The end-life of automotive tyres is associated with various environmental challenges. Combustion of waste tyres emits significant amounts of toxic gases and particulate matter, which contribute significantly to air pollution. Illegal re-treading of tyres increases the risks of road accidents and the stockpiling of waste tyres may results in fire hazards and air pollution. Waste tyre stockpiles create breeding grounds for vermin carrying insects and mosquitoes, which threaten human and animal health. Landfill disposal is not viable due to the non-biodegradability of the tyres and the large volumes they occupy in landfill sites. They are also difficult to compact after disposal. Waste tyre treatment through pyrolysis results in four revenue streams: tyre-derived fuel, refined carbon black, high tensile steel and sodium sulphite.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Earth, Wind and Fire |
| Subtitle of host publication | Unpacking the Political, Economic and Security Implications of Discourse on the Green Economy |
| Editors | L. MYTELKA, V. MSIMANG, R. PERROT |
| Publisher | Real African Publishers Pty Ltd |
| Chapter | 8 |
| Pages | 161-178 |
| Publication status | Published - 2016 |
