Tyres and large batteries
We consulted on proposed regulations for product stewardship of tyres and large batteries.
Find out more about the proposed regulations (consultation closed in December 2021)
See the Tyrewise website for co-design background reports for tyres or appendix 1 of the full consultation document.
See the Battery Industry Group website for co-design background reports for large batteries or appendix 2 of the full consultation document.
Why we need regulations for product stewardship of tyres and large batteries
Every year around 6.5 million tyres are imported into New Zealand. When they reach the end of their use, about a third are exported, recycled or used for other purposes such as silage weights on farms. The rest go to landfill or are illegally dumped. This creates the risk of fire and toxic emissions.
Transitioning to a low-carbon economy requires major increases in renewable energy and electric vehicles and both require large batteries. In 2020, an estimated 1,000 electric vehicle batteries reached the end of their useful lives. It is estimated that by 2030 that number could reach 84,000 each year. Mis-managed large batteries also pose risk of fire and if they end up in the landfill or the environment toxins such as heavy metals are released.
The product stewardship schemes for tyres and large batteries have been co-designed with industry and other stakeholders to ensure they work for both the people involved and the environment. The schemes need regulations to work, to ensure the entire sector participates and follows best practice.
Refrigerants and agrichemicals
Scheme co-design has been completed for refrigerants and agrichemicals.
See the Synthetic Refrigerant Stewardship website for co-design background reports for refrigerants.
The agrichemicals and containers co-design process is being run by the Agrecovery Foundation.
Accreditation applications and consultation on regulations for these schemes are anticipated from the second half of 2022.
Farm plastics and e-waste
Accreditation applications and consultation on regulations for these schemes are anticipated from the second half of 2022.
The farm plastics co-design process will be run by the Agrecovery Foundation.
Co-design process information is available for e-waste [TechCollect website].
Plastic packaging
Scheme co-design has not started for plastic packaging.
Consultation has closed on proposed measures to address hard-to-recycle and single-use plastic items. Find out about the consultation