Ontario announces funds to clean up scrap tires

On April 16, 2003, Ontario Environment Minister Chris Stockwell announced that the Ontario Government will provide $1-million to clean up stockpiled tire sites to help reduce potential fire hazards and potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes that may carry the West Nile virus.

The minister requested that WDO develop a diversion program for used tires and establish an Industry Funding Organization (IFO) made up of brand owners and importers of tires. The IFO and WDO are to work with stakeholders to develop these diversion plans and submit them to the minister for approval.

Approximately 11 million used tires are generated in Ontario each year. About 4.5 million are recycled and used for such products as automotive parts, playground and sports surfaces, running tracks, mats, and more.

The WDO and the two IFOs are expected to deliver a used tire program to the minister by January 30, 2004. The regulation designating used tires (O.Reg. 84/03) is posted on the Environmental Bill of Rights web site.

(See the tire recycling feature in the April/May edition.)

For further information, contact John Steele at 416-314-6666