Most people are aware that you can not just throw out old tires. You also cannot burn tires. Rubber is a harmful product and needs to be handled safely. Tire recycling is the best option, but it is not a widely used practice.
It is common to see tires piled up outside junk yards, body shops and even homes because getting rid of tires is so difficult. The thing is that recycled tires have many uses and can help to save a lot of energy and prevent a lot of environmental pollution, so it really is something you should consider the next time you need to get rid of a tire.
Types of Tire recycling
Tires are recycled in a number of ways. They can be recycled by:
- reusing, if still in good shape
- retreading and reusing
- crumbling into a rubber products
- on playgrounds
- as a fuel
Used tires are not simply waste and should not go to a landfill to sit. They can be used in many ways that are beneficial. Sometimes people get quite creative with recycling tires and have created many wonderful and interesting things form old tires. Additionally, reusing tires means that new materials do not have to be produced which is a great energy saver.
How to recycle
When you have a tire that you need to recycle you can likely take it to an auto shop or tire center. They will usually take it for you. Some local areas will also hold recycling collection days where tires are something they will take in. If you can not find somewhere then contact you local waste management agency or recycling center. Someone should be able to direct you to where to recycle your used tires.
Why recycle
As mentioned, tires can be quite harmful to the environment. When tires are burned they give off harmful emissions and an oil run off that is incredibly dangerous. Tire emissions from burning tires omit such harmful agents as lead and arsenic into the air.
The government has very strict standards about tire waste due to these harmful effects. You should understand the laws in your area before disposing of a tire in a manner other than recycling at a proper drop off center or location. It is always best to try to recycle the tire in some way rather than simply disposing of it.