TRF announces “Tread Boldly: Advancing Tire Recycling Through Collective Innovation” as the theme of the 10th Tire Recycling Conference, reflecting a growing focus and shared commitment on transforming end-of-life tyre (ELT) management into a fully circular, sustainable system through bold collective action, cutting-edge research and innovation
“For over 20 years, the biennial Tire Recycling Conference has been a gathering for industry leaders and stakeholders to learn and foster innovative programs to address ELT management and grow tyre recycling markets,” said Anne Forristall Luke, TRF board president. “The 2026 conference will build on this legacy and galvanise an entire system of national and local businesses, governments and state officials toward effective market-based programs.”
According to the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association’s (USTMA) 2023 ELT Management Report, tyres remain one of the most recycled and reclaimed products in the country. However, as the ELT generation continues to outpace consumption of recycled tyre rubber, work remains to achieve full circularity. Active state ELT programs can maximise success by enhancing focus on creating and maintaining end-use markets. As an example, end-use markets for recycled tyres like rubber-modified asphalt (RMA) can play a critical role in reducing tyre stockpiles while delivering substantial long-term environmental and economic benefits, including jobs and infrastructure cost savings like longer-lasting roads.
“Expanding end-use markets for recycled tyres demands bold action rooted in research, education, effective state programs, and collaboration,” said Stephanie Mull, TRF executive director. “The conference’s theme, ‘tread boldly,’ is a call to action for every stakeholder in the tyre recycling ecosystem and the critical role they play in shaping a future where every end-of-life tyre enters a sustainable and circular program.”
The 2026 Conference is designed for all stakeholders, focusing on the interconnected roles they play in growing tyre recycling markets and enhancing ELT management. Attendees can expect keynotes from industry leaders; discussions on the strategic roadmap to ELT market acceleration; panels on emerging technologies for tyre recycling; and sessions spotlighting policy and regulation on various ELT sub-markets, such as Rubber Modified Asphalt, featuring updates from state agencies. The conference will also be packed with networking opportunities with industry leaders from all corners of the ELT value chain.
“This milestone event will showcase the strengths of end-use markets and power of collective innovation,” said John Sheerin, Senior Director of End-of-Life Tires at USTMA, “Whether you are a manufacturer, processor or recycler, policymaker, researcher, retailer or distributor, there is a place for you to work alongside industry partners and amplify efforts in advancing tyre recycling.”
For more information and registration, please visit: https://tirerecyclingfoundation.org/tire-recycling-conference
