Drivers facing tax on tyres in raft of new 'green levies'

The Government is considering imposing a tax on new tyres in what it says is a bid to stamp out illegal dumping.

Bin collection charges will rise for householders who refuse to recycle, and a levy on new cars is also likely under proposals from Environment Minister Phil Hogan.

The changes are an attempt to combat the illegal dumping of cars, tyres and household waste, which is causing widespread environmental damage.

The Government is looking at introducing a levy on new cars to pay for their disposal, with a similar fee for new tyres, which is likely to be passed on to the consumer.

The charges have not yet been set, but they will be decided after an eight-week public consultation process that begins today.

There are concerns about the number of vehicles and tyres going "missing" from the system and ending up being illegally dumped or crushed without chemicals being removed.

The new levies are the latest to bring us into line with our European neighbours and help combat climate change.

Carbon taxes have been imposed on fossil fuels since 2010, the plastic bag tax introduced in 2002 has dramatically reduced consumption and the landfill levy has helped improve recycling rates.

Water charges to be introduced from the end of next year will also help drive down consumption.

In 2010, 158,000 cars were classed as "end-of-life" (ELV) or ready for destruction, but only 43,000 were disposed of in authorised facilities.

Around 35,000 tons of tyres come on to the market every year, but only 20,000 tons are processed through licensed plants.

Mr Hogan will outline his new policies at the National Waste Summit today.

The move follows a review of the Producer Responsibility Initiative, where manufacturers are obliged to ensure their products are correctly disposed of.

A series of reports on the sector will be published on the Department of the Environment's website later today.

hnews@herald.ie