End of 'Cash for Clunkers' Program Creates Unprecedented Opportunity for Recycling

LAKEWOOD, N.J., Aug. 25, 2009; 2009; Few could have imagined how popular the government's "cash for clunkers" program would become. When all is said and done, some 800,000 cars will have been scrapped for new, more fuel efficient vehicles. While this is good for the environment in terms of emissions, it creates a host of challenges when talking about what to do with the scrapped vehicles.

We here at Rubberecycle see great opportunity to reduce the impact these "clunkers" pose when it comes to the environment by taking advantage of technology to recycle key parts of the vehicles. "Consider the tires alone, with 800,000 vehicles you are looking at more than 3 million tires. We can take and convert those tires into products people can use again to enhance the quality of their lives," according to Keith Sacks, Vice President, Rubberecycle.

One of the best uses for recycled tires is a rubber mulch product called "PlaySafer." PlaySafer mulch is used in parks, playgrounds and backyards across the country. It is also the surface of choice for the White House playground! "This product has been proven in more than a hundred studies over nearly two decades to not only be safe but to enhance the safety of your children. The EPA has recommended it for years and Consumer Reports has given it two thumbs up as well. It is a better, safer and smarter alternative to traditional wood mulch, gravel and sand products," says Sacks.

Consumers should also be cautious when it comes to buying tires from old "clunker" vehicles. Some of these tires will make it to the re-sale market and some may be safe for road use; there is a pretty good chance that the tires are clunkers themselves.

"Cash for Clunkers" has been a tremendous boost to the economy and the environment. The challenge now is to keep that momentum going by making the best use of the discarded parts. Tire recycling is one giant green step in that direction.

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