Viva Energy turns tyres into fuel
Initiative represents a significant step toward local tyre recycling infrastructure in Melbourne.
Viva Energy has successfully processed 10 tonnes of tyre-derived pyrolysis oil at its Geelong Refinery. The milestone builds on a similar achievement in May, when the refinery processed pyrolysis oil sourced from waste plastics, as it increases its ability to scale up advanced recycling initiatives and produce lower-carbon fuels.
The demonstration involved importing the pyrolysis oil from Poland under government-approved permits, due to the current lack of domestic supply. This initiative not only validates Viva Energy’s refining capabilities but also represents a significant step toward local tyre recycling infrastructure in Melbourne.
Earlier this year, Viva Energy entered into a memorandum of understanding with Canadian recycling firm Klean Industries. The partnership envisions a new facility in Melbourne capable of processing up to 80,000 tonnes of end-of-life tyres annually.
“The refinery’s ability to process pyrolysis oil from both tyres and waste plastic demonstrates the versatility of our facility and our commitment to supporting a lower-carbon future. We’re proud to play a role in reducing landfill waste and producing sustainable fuels—but the right policy support is essential to scale these innovations,” Lachlan Pfeiffer, Viva Energy’s Chief Strategy Officer.
Australia currently does not recognize the carbon reduction potential of co-processed fuels, which limits the ability for end users to claim associated environmental benefits.
“Initiatives like these highlight how we can extract meaningful value from tyres and support a sustainable, low-emissions future for Australia,” said Lina Goodman, CEO of Tyre Stewardship Australia.
Viva Energy’s leadership in advanced recycling technologies could help reshape Australia’s energy landscape.
