Ever wondered what happens to your used tyres once they come of your car? Chances are that the disposal process was monitored by TRACS (Tyre Recovery Activity Compliance Scheme). The scheme is Ireland's first and largest monitoring and compliance scheme, covering over 90% of the sector.
Figures for 2011 show that almost half (47.59%) of tyres were crumbed for conversion into 'saleable product'. Whole tyres exported for treatment accounted for 11.18% with 21.48% getting baled and 12.75% being shredded. Processing usually involved turning tyres into fuel.
Membership of TRACS covers 84% of producers/importers, 68% of retail outlets, 60% of wholesalers and 82% of waste collectors. Participants in the scheme are responsible for correctly disposing of tyres. TRACS reports to the relevant authorities on the entire supply chain and waste collectors.
Tyre retailers are urged to deal only with registered and authorised waste collectors and look for a Recovery Certificate as proof.