Liberty Tire hits 80 percent materials recycling rate in 2024

Pittsburgh-based Liberty Tire Recycling, in figures collected for its 2024 Sustainability Report, has reported  collecting more than 215 million end-of-life tires and reclaimed more than 2.35 million tons of rubber last year at its network of recycling facilities.

“At Liberty, we don’t just recycle tires, we partner with others to build a better future,” Liberty CEO Thomas Womble says. “Whether it’s a global manufacturer, local retailer or city government, our partners trust Liberty to help them meet their sustainability goals and do right by their communities. This report is a reflection of what responsible growth looks like – when innovation, impact and partnership work hand-in-hand.”

The company has calculated an 81.1 percent end-market utilization rate, a 2.7 percent increase compared with 2023. While it cites energy recovery as one end market, Liberty says it is moving more material into "sustainable and innovative uses" like rubberized asphalt, molded goods and sports and playground surfaces.

Liberty also reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 1.5 percent in 2024 compared with the prior year, even amid company growth and acquisitions, and reduced workplace safety incidents by about 24 percent and vehicle incidents by nearly 30 percent, citing "a stronger, safer culture across its operations.

“Our work is grounded in action and accountability,” says Amy Brackin, senior vice president of sustainability at Liberty Tire. “From emissions management to zero waste goals, we’re proving that it’s possible to grow responsibly, moving more material up the value chain, investing in our people and rethinking how tires can create value long after they leave the road.”

The full 2024 Liberty Tire Recycling sustainability report can be accessed on the company’s website.