GDTC is a company that recycles old car and truck tyres, and has had a pilot plant in operation at Warren since 2009, which is in the process of being upgraded to full production. 

GDTC is commercialising the technology of Warren local Denis Randall, who developed the technology to recycle old tyres into saleable commodities of carbon, oil and steel. 

The green technology company’s achievement in winning the bronze medal can not be underestimated, as GDTC is Australia’s first Edison Awards finalist, the world’s top award for innovation. 

GDTC chief executive officer, Craig Dunn was on hand to receive the award in New York and was thrilled their business was recognised. 

“Clearly to be among such company (other nominees) is a reflection of how our technology is regarded internationally,” Mr Dunn said. 

“It’s fantastic for our business to receive this award and great recognition for Denis (Randall).” 

On the back of this success, Mr Dunn revealed plans were under way for further expansion. 

“We regard this as just the start and have plans for further expansion in Australia and now internationally,” Mr Dunn said.

“It is generally agreed that the disposal of old car and truck tyres is one of the world’s worst environmental problems.

“We started in 2009 to prove out technology and the capability of the process, which represents the ultimate in recycling old tyres and more importantly generates a positive cash flow by selling the resulting carbon, oil and steel. 

“The oil produced from the GDT process can be used as a heating fuel, while the carbon is a high grade product that can replace those sourced from fossil fuels and the steel is returned directly to tyre manufacturers for reuse.”

Once the plant at Warren is upgraded, it will be capable of processing 19,000 tonnes of tyres per year, which represents 3 per cent of the end-of-life tyres generated by Australia annually.