A new circular economy initiative in the Bowen Basin will see mining truck tyres recycled for the first time in Australia.

Up to 30 new jobs are expected to be created as a result of the partnership between BHP and Novum Energy.

Used earth moving tyres from all seven BMA and BMC coal mines will be supplied to Novum, who will convert them into heavy and light oils, carbon black, syngas and steel at a processing plant being built in Nebo. 

“This is the first time in Australia that mining truck tyres will be recycled – and we’re doing it here in Queensland’s Bowen Basin,” BMA asset president James Palmer said.

“New technology means rather than storing old tyres they can be now be recycled and turned into new products such as oils, carbon black syngas and steel.”

BMC asset president Elsabe Muller said BHP would start by supplying 2000 tyres annually to Novum. The tyres weigh about 4.9 tonnes each.

“This is a first for BHP in Australia, and is another example of the mining industry in Central Queensland leading the way,” Ms Muller said.

Novum Energy Australia managing director Rowan Kendall said work was underway on a processing plant that would employ up to 30 full-time employees once fully operational. 

“Our target is to process 19,000 tonnes of rubber per annum, which will produce approximately 9 million litres of fuel oil, 4500 tonne of recycled carbon black, 2500 tonnes of waste steel and excess syngas for electricity generation,” he said.

“This is an effective way to ensure used tyres are being reclaimed in a safe and sustainable manner.”