Up to 30 new jobs will be created in the Bowen Basin as a result of a new partnership between BHP and Novum Energy to recycle mining truck tyres for the first time in Australia.

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

BMA Asset President James Palmer said recycling the tyres would create new jobs for the community, increase sustainability and reduce emissions at BHP’s Queensland operations.

“We are constantly looking for ways to increase the sustainability of our operations, reduce emissions and contribute to regional communities, and this new BHP-led initiative does just that,” said Palmer.

“New technology means rather than storing old tyres, which weigh around 4.9 t each, they can be now be recycled and turned into new products. This helps us create a circular economy in the region by re-purposing waste locally and creating activity in the region.”

BMC Asset President Elsabe Muller said BHP will start by supplying 2,000 tyres annually to Novum. “This is a first for BHP in Australia, and is another example of the mining industry in Central Queensland leading the way,” said Muller.

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 t of rubber per annum, which will produce approximately 9 million litres of fuel oil, 4,500 t of recycled carbon black, 2,500 t of waste steel and excess syngas for electricity generation. This is an effective way to ensure used tyres are being reclaimed in a safe and sustainable manner,” Kendall said.