SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Nearly four out of every five end-of-life tires generated in the United States entered productive markets in 2025, said the latest report from the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA). This highlights continued progress in tire recycling despite shifting industrial demand and a sharp increase in exports.
According to the report, approximately 79% of the 273 million discarded tires generated nationwide reached end-use markets. Illegal and abandoned stockpiles declined 12% from 2023 to 42.1 million tires. Compared with the peak recorded in 1990, accumulated stockpiles have fallen 96%. Land disposal also decreased nearly 11% to 779,000 tons.
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Tire-derived fuel remained the largest end-use market, consuming approximately 1.317 million tons, followed by ground rubber at 1.201 million tons. Cement kiln consumption increased 5% to 821,000 tons, while reclamation projects recorded 10% growth, the USTMA report noted.
However, pulp and paper mill closures reduced demand from that sector by 40%. The changes to Michigan's energy legislation contributed to a 22% decline in utility boiler consumption.
Exports recorded significant growth, surging 270% from 253,000 tons in 2023 to 936,000 tons in 2025. The major export destinations included established Asian markets, especially India.
USTMA highlighted the need for strengthening domestic recycling applications to ensure long-term demand for the material.