According to Rubber News, there's a troubling trend in the tire recycling industry: in 2013, 96% of end-of-life tires were recycled, but by 2021, this dropped to 71%.

The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) will release its 2023 scrap tire study soon, expecting a slight increase from 2021. However, tens of millions of tires still end up in landfills or are illegally dumped each year.

The tire industry is responding with renewed dedication, forming the Tire Recycling Foundation to tackle these challenges. USTMA Chair Alexis Garcin emphasized the industry's commitment to sustainability and the need to accelerate progress.

The foundation, supported by the Tire Industry Association (TIA), aims to close the gap between scrap tire generation and sustainable reuse. Key markets for growth include rubber modified asphalt (RMA) and tire-derived aggregate (TDA), which promise higher value applications.

The Tire Recycling Foundation's diverse 13-member Board of Directors underscores the broad support for this initiative. Their approach balances advocacy, action, and communication to achieve a sustainable future.

Read the full article at Rubber News.