End-of-Life Tire Collection and Processing
Used tire collection and processing for recycling is a crucial step in promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Through efficient collection systems, used tires are gathered from various sources like tire retailers, auto repair shops, and waste management facilities. These tires are then processed at specialized recycling facilities where they are cleaned, shredded, and sorted into reusable materials. The recycled rubber is used to produce a wide range of products, including asphalt pavement, playground surfaces, athletic fields, and automotive components. By diverting used tires from landfills and turning them into valuable resources, tire recycling helps conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support a circular economy.
Recycled Tire Products
Recycled tires can be transformed into a wide range of innovative products that have the additional sustainability benefit of finding new uses for end-of-life tires. One common use of recycled tire rubber is in the production of rubber-modified asphalt, which is used to pave roads and highways in states across the country. This durable and long-lasting material not only provides a smoother, quieter ride for drivers but also helps to extend the lifespan of road surfaces.
Recycled tire rubber is also used to create recreation surfaces and athletic tracks providing safe and resilient playing surfaces. Other products made from recycled tires include, but are not limited to:
Tire derived aggregate for infiltration galleries that filter stormwater
Retreading tires for reuse
Automotive products
Tire-derived fuel
Rubber mats for industrial and agricultural use
eco-friendly footwear and fashion accessories
By giving old tires new life, recycling helps to conserve natural resources, reduce waste and support a circular economy.
Expanding Tire Recycling Markets
Expanding end-use markets for recycled tires is crucial to maximizing the environmental benefits of tire recycling. By diversifying the applications of recycled tire rubber, new opportunities can be created to reuse end-of-life tires for new and important uses. One effective strategy for expanding end-use markets is to innovate and develop new products and applications for recycled tire rubber. Research and development efforts can focus on creating innovative materials such as rubber-modified asphalt, which improves road durability and reduces road noise. Additionally, there is potential to explore new markets such as sustainable construction materials, eco-friendly consumer products, and renewable energy applications. By investing in research, development, and market expansion initiatives, the Tire Recycling Foundation can support unlocking the full potential of recycled tire rubber, supporting sustainability and circular tire recycling markets.