Construction has now begun, with the first phase set to open by the end of 2026 and full operations expected by 2027. The plant will be the UK’s first fully circular tyre-to-fuel facility, refining used tyres into oil and converting it into SAF.
The project is supported by the International Airlines Group (IAG), which owns British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Iberia. IAG announced its investment in January and stated that the Wearside plant would play a key role in meeting growing SAF demands. The UK government recently introduced a mandate requiring at least 2% of the fuel used on departing flights to be SAF, increasing to 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2034.
Wastefront’s CEO, Vianny Vales, highlighted the plant’s environmental and economic benefits, stating that it would prevent millions of tyres from going to landfills while providing a cost-effective solution for sustainable aviation. Sunderland City Council leader, Micheal Mordey, welcomed the investment, saying it reinforces the city’s reputation as a hub for innovation.
The Sunderland site marks the beginning of Wastefront’s expansion. The company aims to scale up to meet the rising demand for green aviation fuels. The initiative aligns with the aviation industry’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition towards more sustainable fuel sources, setting a precedent for similar projects in the UK.