Recylcing of Used Tyres to Benefit Economy

The country is set to benefit from the recycling of waste tyres, and will also see reduction of the harmful effects of improper burning, through an investment by SKD Haulage and Distribution (SKDP), to develop a rubber industry.

The St. Ann-based company, which will begin this waste to profit initiative by July, projects that it can absorb up to 60 per cent of waste tyres in Jamaica, over the next decade.

Speaking at the launch on Wednesday, May 28, at the University of the West Indies, Mona campus, Minister of Industry, Investment, and Commerce, Hon. Anthony Hylton, said the initiative will create jobs, and alleviate the problem of frequent fires at the Riverton City landfill.

“This investment will, undoubtedly, encourage other local and, perhaps, global investments in this emerging industry. The production of crumb rubber from recycling of tyres forms part of the ‘waste for profit’ scheme that several Ministries and agencies are promoting,” he said.

Minister Hylton stressed that the industry is unique, as the material to develop the end product, which will be used for road surfacing, is available locally.

“The raw materials are found right here in Jamaica, in very large quantities. This will open up opportunities for many other players in the industry. In addition to the absorption of used tyres, (it will) decrease the Government’s costs associated with solid waste disposal, and reduce the number of new landfills required to store used tyres,” he explained.

The Industry Minister pointed out that rubber asphalt has been proven to be high in durability and strength, and lasts up to two times longer than standard asphalt.

“It generally reduces the rotting and cracking that normally occurs in road surfaces, promotes better stopping distance, and reduces road spray, thereby improving on visibility and permitting a quieter drive on the surface,” the Minister said.

It is estimated that over one million used tyres are discarded annually in Jamaica, occupying large spaces at landfills and tyre repair outlets.

SKDP, while proving a viable option to road construction, will also be decreasing the health and environmental issues associated with improper disposal outlets.