With the Used Tires Program handling over 12 million tires sold in Ontario annually, Ontarians have a few more reasons to feel good about their next tire purchase knowing that their old tires are going to be managed in a manner that is both environmentally responsible and economically sound. Responsible management of used tires will eliminate the unauthorized disposal of scrap tires and promote safer methods of reusing and recycling scrap tires into green products.

The Used Tires Program will spur economic growth and innovation within the scrap tire industry of Ontario by providing incentives and funding for the development of current and new end use markets for scrap tires. Scrap tires are a valuable resource when reused or recycled into new products. Examples of recycled uses in Ontario are:

• floor mats used in hockey arenas and weight rooms
• soaker hoses for watering your garden more efficiently
• mouse pads to keep you productive on your computer
• rubber components for use in your car’s engine

These kinds of high-value uses for scrap tires are what the Used Tires Program is working to encourage. Together with the existing Ontario recycled product manufacturers, and new entrants to the market, OTS will be developing new markets for these products, and exploring new applications for these materials.