A new infographic from BRIDJIT Curb Ramps illustrates what actually happens to used tires after they’re removed from a passenger vehicle. Since keeping used tires out of landfills has always been important to them, the team at BRIDJIT Curb Ramps did some research to see just how many U.S. passenger car tires are repurposed after their life on a vehicle. According to data from the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association, five out of six tires are repurposed.
“Reducing the number of tires that end up in landfills has always been a goal for me, so I’m pleased to share that the industry has taken steps to reduce their footprint,” says John Curry, president of BRIDJIT Curb Ramps. “Currently, 86 percent of disposed tires are recycled and used for fuels or broken down into crumb rubber, which has many applications.”
There are approximately 233 million used passenger vehicle tires collected in the U.S. each year. The infographic details the ways 206 million of those tires are repurposed:
- More than 60% of those used tires are shredded and added to fuels for cement kilns, industrial boilers, and more.
- Almost 30% of the tires are broken down to crumb rubber. The crumb rubber becomes a key ingredient for playground surfaces, truck bed liners, rubber hoses, road bases, BRIDJIT curb ramps, and more.
- Because scrap tire is readily available, cheap, offers the real insulation, and drains well, about 5% of these tires are used in civil engineering projects.
- The remaining tires are used for other, non-specified projects, refurbishing or retreading and exporting.
“Like many industries, those in the tire business are doing their part to reduce waste and pollution,” Curry says. “Tire manufacturers have even started using more plant-based oils and reducing emissions during the production process. All of this is really good news.”
The graphic also reminds drivers that weekly tire maintenance increases fuel efficiency and gives tires a longer lifespan. See the graphic here: https://www.bridjit.com/blog/where-do-old-tires-go/
About BRIDJIT Curb Ramps:
Bridging the gap between the street and a rolled curb, BRIDJIT Curb Ramps prevent vehicle misalignment and front end damage. Founded in 2008, BRIDJIT Curb Ramps became the green solution to your curb problem. BRIDJIT ramps are manufactured in the USA, using crumb rubber sourced from recycled tires. Learn more at bridjit.com.