Recycling is not a new concept: glass, plastic, cardboard, etc., all are recycled. But what about used tires? Where can they be disposed of? What are they recycled into? Blackcircles Canada tells you more about tire recycling!
Why is it important to recycle tires?
Obviously, the primary reason for recycling tires is environmental. In fact, by recycling tires, we not only prevent them from ending up in the landfill, but we can also give them a second life! Moreover, when recyclable tires are destroyed and/or reused in a recycling centre that specializes in tire recycling, we can be sure that this centre disposes of them in an eco-friendly manner.
Reduction of chemicals in the environment
As tires decompose, they release many chemicals into the soil that are highly toxic to the environment, so it makes sense to dispose of them responsibly, where they will be destroyed and processed in a way that significantly reduces their environmental footprint. These processing centres will destroy the tires in a process called pyrolysis, which uses heat to break down the materials.
What do I do with my used tires?
Don’t throw them in the garbage or in your recycling bin! There are various places where you can dispose of your tires in a safe and eco-friendly manner.
Tire Retailers
Whether it’s your dealer, your garage or a retailer specializing in the sale of tires, all these places can take back your scrap tires, sometimes free of charge, sometimes for a fee.
Eco-centres
Your municipality’s eco-centre is also a key player in tire recycling and, most of the time, this service is free for residents. They will then dispose of the tires safely.
Who is responsible for tire recycling in Quebec?
RECYC-QUÉBEC is responsible for managing tire recycling through its Quebec program for the integrated management of scrap tires (Programme québécois de gestion intégrée des pneus hors d’usage 2015-2020). This program, in effect since January 1, 2015, aims to recover and direct used tires to industries specializing in the recycling and remolding of this material.
To date, tens of thousands of tons of tires have thus avoided ending up in landfills and, thanks to rubber recycling, they have been able to enjoy a second life in various fields.
How is this program funded?
You may have noticed, at the time of your last purchase of new tires, that a fee of $3 per tire was applicable; this is the specific fee on new tires to finance the following programs managed by RECYC-QUÉBEC:
- The Quebec integrated scrap tire management program,
- The program to empty scrap tire storage sites,
- The financial assistance program for scrap tire processing centres.
This fee is payable when you buy new tires or if you buy (or lease for more than 12 months) a vehicle with new tires.
What are the outlets for used tires?
When used tires are recycled, they are not turned into new tires! However, scrap tires can be used as a material in many areas, and here’s an overview of some of the ways in which they can be used.
Different uses
Recycled tires can be used in the manufacture of castings used in civil engineering, water repellent membranes, sound barriers along highways, guardrails, railroad ties, roof shingles, patio slabs or paving stones and even in the composition of asphalt.
Moreover, the artistic field also benefits from tire recycling since sculptures and even jewellery use recycled tires. As the saying goes, sky is the limit!
How do I find where to take my tires near my home?
RECYC-QUÉBEC’s mobile app Ça va où? will help you quickly find scrap tire recovery locations near you; don’t hesitate to consult it!
