New ways to recycle tires in Nova Scotia considered

The agency responsible for recycling in Nova Scotia is looking for new ways to handle the million used tires created every year across the province. 

It's a number that could grow if the environment department adds tires from ATVs, farm tractors and commercial equipment to the recycling list.

"In some markets they make crumb that's used in sports fields," said Jeff MacCallum, the CEO of Divert Nova Scotia. "There's also a company in Quebec that makes animal bedding mats for the dairy industry."

Possible change

Currently, used tires from passenger vehicles and tractor trailers are shredded by Halifax C&D Recycling in Goodwood, N.S. Some of the material is used in road construction and drainage pipes.

The company has had a contract with Divert Nova Scotia for the past seven years, but that could change.

Recycling officials may divide the material between three different proposals. The Lafarge Cement Plant in Brookfield is considering using tires as a fuel source. All proposals have to include "proven technology."

Decision expected in 2017

"The technology might be so new it's too risky for us," said MacCallum.

Tires are used as a fuel source elsewhere in the world and in places where there are strict emission standards. MacCallum said the idea could be considered as long as it received the necessary permits.

A decision on the proposals is expected in early 2017.