In 2024, Tire Stewardship BC (TSBC), in partnership with Liberty Tire, coordinated 20 tire collection events across BC. These events successfully collected 14,221 orphan tires. This achievement was made possible through collaboration with community groups, regional districts, municipalities, and Return-to-Retailer locations (R2Rs).

What Are Orphan Tires?

Orphan tires refer to old, unused tires that individuals have accumulated and failed to dispose of properly when purchasing new ones. TSBC’s province-wide initiative offered free disposal for all tire sizes, both on- and off-rim, exclusively for residential quantities, to promote responsible tire recycling. This program helped consumers who had not disposed of their old or abandoned tires. Furthermore, it provided a solution for public scrap tire disposal.

Tire Recycling and Circularity in BC

This year, the primary focus was on raising awareness about the importance of properly disposing of scrap tires. Proper disposal helps reduce fire risks during the fire season and prevents the accumulation of rainwater that can breed mosquitoes. It also supports the circular economy by ensuring tires are responsibly recycled.

With the support of Liberty Tire, TSBC processed all collected tires through BC’s tire recycling program. The tires were transported to Liberty Tire’s recycling facility in Delta, BC, where they were converted into crumb rubber and landscaping mulch. Local manufacturers, such as North West Rubber, then used the crumb rubber to create products like farm animal mats, truck bed liners, and durable rubber tiles.

The 2024 tire collection events spanned the entire province, from Sayward to Invermere and Terrace to Galiano Island. Key events included Junk in the Trunk, Sayward Cleanup Days, and the annual collection in McBride.

Related: Turning Treads into Treasure: How Tire Recycling in BC Drives a Circular Economy

“Our tire roundup in Kelowna was a success,” said Curtis from Duka Environmental Services Ltd. Wes Ortwein from Reach Tire & Auto, who provided dismounting services, shared, “The event was a tremendous success.”

TSBC also recognizes the ongoing efforts of Return-to-Retailers (R2Rs), where the public can drop off up to four off-rim tires year-round, free of charge. To find an R2R location near you, visit Recycle Your Tires.

These collaborative efforts not only ensure the responsible recycling of scrap tires but also support the creation of recycled products across industries, contributing to a circular economy in BC. TSBC extends its gratitude to all partners and participants who contributed to the success of this year’s tire collection events.