Upcycle helps drive sustainability at Onslow Iron

Indigenous-led business Upcycle Tyre Services (Upcycle) has been awarded a $5m contract to recycle haulage tyres from Mineral Resources’ (ASX: MIN) (MinRes) Onslow Iron project in WA, turning them into materials used to build infrastructure and playgrounds.

A joint venture between King Kira Group (KKG) and Carroll Engineering Services, Upcycle is spearheaded by KKG founder and managing director and Nyiyaparli/Paylku woman Tammy O’Connor.

Ms O’Connor says Upcycle aims to limit landfill waste and create solutions that benefit mining companies, communities and the environment.

“I’ve spent 10 years understanding waste — what’s being buried onsite and what could be reused,” she said.

“Rather than letting that waste sit underground, we want to create social value by using recycled materials to build playgrounds, infrastructure and more.”

“We want to lead the way in tyre recycling across WA while influencing the broader waste management industry.

“Our technology and innovation create sustainable outcomes with tangible environmental and financial benefits.”

Ms O’Connor says while burying waste has been common practice in mining, the resources industry needs to think about the future.

“What’s buried now will have to be dug up later for rehabilitation, so why not create solutions today that benefit everyone-mining companies, communities and the planet?” she said.

“Upcycle is about more than recycling tyres. It’s about building capacity, providing employment and creating a legacy for Indigenous businesses.”

Upcycle will provide services from a facility just south of Perth in Naval Base, which is central to its operations and enables the business to streamline logistics and reduce costs.

MinRes general manager environment and heritage Celine Mangan says MinRes is pleased to partner with Upcycle.

“By recycling our haulage truck tyres, we’re taking a significant step towards reducing our environmental footprint,” she said.

“This collaboration demonstrates our dedication to environmental stewardship and supports our commitment to working alongside Indigenous businesses to grow opportunities for First Nations people.”

MinRes says it is committed to engaging local Indigenous Australians through well-designed and fully supported business opportunities.

The company continues to invest capability-building by identifying programs and processes assisting local Indigenous businesses and people to meet their aspirations in having their own business.