US Tire Manufacturers Association Shows Progress in Tire Recycling

The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) has published its 16th End-of-Life Tire (ELT) Management Report, underscoring substantial advancements in tire recycling. According to the report, approximately 79% of end-of-life tires in the U.S. were recycled through various end-use markets in 2023, a notable 10.5% increase in utilization. This data reinforces that tires are among the most recycled consumer products in the U.S., outperforming materials like metals, glass, and plastics.

While this progress is encouraging, USTMA stresses the necessity for continued collaborative efforts within the tire recycling sector. Anne Forristall Luke, president and CEO of USTMA, commented, “This over 95% reduction in stockpiles is the result of decades of progress developing the tire recycling industry, remediating stockpile sites, and driving innovation. USTMA’s primary goal is to recycle 100% of end-of-life tires into circular, sustainable markets.” She urged manufacturers, policymakers, and environmental organizations to work together to eliminate stockpiled tires and foster a sustainable circular market for ELTs.

Ground Rubber and Infrastructure Growth

Ground rubber applications have rapidly expanded, especially in Rubber Modified Asphalt (RMA), which now represents the second-largest end-use market for ELTs. Since 2021, RMA has absorbed 165,000 tons of ELTs, reflecting a 17% increase and serving as an affordable, durable infrastructure solution. The USTMA continues to advocate for federal funding to broaden the RMA market, which provides environmental benefits, enhances infrastructure, and propels tire circularity.

Addressing Tire Stockpile Challenges

Despite the progress, approximately 48 million ELTs remain in stockpiles, posing a long-term challenge. The USTMA and the Tire Industry Association have launched the Tire Recycling Foundation (TRF), a platform that fosters collaboration among stakeholders to address these stockpiles and promote best practices in tire recycling.

Focus on Future Strategic Initiatives

USTMA aims to sustain this momentum with four key areas of focus: expanding research to drive market growth, fostering collaborative engagement within the value chain, leveraging federal infrastructure funding to support RMA and Tire Derived Aggregate (TDA) markets, and advocating for strong state-level ELT management programs. With these initiatives, USTMA envisions a future where all tires are recycled into sustainable, circular end-use markets.