Copyright RubberWorld
Washington, DC – The Tire Recycling Foundation (TRF) announced the theme for the 10th Tire Recycling Conference, happening May 12-14, 2026, in Denver, Colorado. The theme, “Tread Boldly: Advancing Tire Recycling Through Collective Innovation,” reflects a growing focus and shared commitment on transforming end-of-life tire (ELT) management into a fully circular, sustainable system through bold collective action, cutting-edge research and innovation. “For over 20 years, the biennial Tire Recycling Conference has been a gathering for industry leaders and stakeholders to learn and foster innovative programs to address ELT management and grow tire recycling markets,” said Anne Forristall Luke, TRF board president. “The 2026 conference will build on this legacy and galvanize an entire system of national and local businesses, governments and state officials toward effective market-based programs.” Tire recycling is a pillar of sustainability, innovation and economic growth. According to the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association’s (USTMA) 2023 ELT Management Report, tires remain one of the most recycled and reclaimed products in the country. However, as ELT generation continues to outpace consumption of recycled tire rubber, work remains to achieve full circularity. Active state ELT programs can maximize success by enhancing focus on creating and maintaining end-use markets. As an example, end-use markets for recycled tires like rubber-modified asphalt (RMA) can play a critical role in reducing tire stockpiles while delivering substantial long-term environmental and economic benefits, including jobs and infrastructure cost savings like longer-lasting roads. “Expanding end-use markets for recycled tires demands bold action rooted in research, education, effective state programs, and collaboration,” said Stephanie Mull, TRF executive director. “The conference’s theme, ‘tread boldly,’ is a call to action for every stakeholder in the tire recycling ecosystem and the critical role they play in shaping a future where every end-of-life tire enters a sustainable and circular program.” The 2026 Conference is designed for all stakeholders, focusing on the interconnected roles they play in growing tire recycling markets and enhancing ELT management. Attendees can expect keynotes from industry leaders; discussions on the strategic roadmap to ELT market acceleration; panels on emerging technologies for tire recycling; and sessions spotlighting policy and regulation on various ELT sub-markets such as Rubber Modified Asphalt, featuring updates from state agencies. The conference will also be packed with networking opportunities with industry leaders from all corners of the ELT value chain. “This milestone event will showcase the strengths of end-use markets and power of collective innovation,” said John Sheerin, Senior Director of End-of-Life Tires at USTMA, “Whether you are a manufacturer, processor or recycler, policymaker, researcher, retailor or distributor, there is a place for you to work alongside industry partners and amplify efforts in advancing tire recycling.” For more information and to take advantage of early registration, please see: https://tirerecyclingfoundation.org/tire-recycling-conference
