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Sustainable Tyre Practices in Africa: Recycling, Retreading & Circular Economy

  • Writer: Jason Aquadro
    Jason Aquadro
  • Oct 24
  • 3 min read

Introduction

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Tyres are essential to Africa’s transport, agriculture, and construction industries. But what happens when they wear out? Across Africa, millions of tyres are discarded every year, creating environmental and health challenges.

The good news: sustainable practices like recycling, retreading, and extending tyre life are gaining momentum. At Tyres Without Borders, we believe in pairing durable BKT tyres with smart lifecycle management to reduce waste and protect Africa’s environment.



1. The tyre waste challenge in Africa

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Africa generates thousands of tonnes of end-of-life tyres annually (UNEP Africa Waste Management). Many end up in landfills or are burned, releasing toxins.

Challenges include:

  • Limited recycling infrastructure in rural areas.

  • Unregulated disposal practices, leading to illegal dumps.

  • High replacement frequency for low-quality tyres.

This makes sustainable tyre practices vital for both businesses and governments.



2. Recycling tyres in Africa

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Recycling can turn old tyres into:

  • Crumb rubber for road surfacing and sports pitches.

  • Fuel alternatives for cement kilns.

  • Building materials, such as eco-blocks.

The African Tyre Recycling Association (ATRA) works with governments to promote recycling networks (ATRA Africa). But adoption is still in early stages.



3. Retreading: Extending tyre life

Retreading is the process of replacing worn tread with new rubber — effectively giving tyres a second life.

  • Cost savings: Retreads cost up to 40% less than new tyres.

  • Reduced waste: Extends lifecycle by thousands of kilometres.

  • Safety: When properly maintained, retreaded tyres perform reliably.

BKT designs tyres with strong casings, making them ideal for retreading. For example, the BKT EarthMax range has all-steel belted structures that allow multiple retread cycles — perfect for African truck fleets and construction machinery.



4. How BKT supports sustainability

BKT is not only building long-lasting tyres but also embracing green manufacturing:

  • Renewable energy use: Over 50% of energy at BKT plants comes from renewable sources.

  • Sustainable compounds: Reduced use of non-renewable oils and more eco-friendly raw materials.

  • Recycling initiatives: BKT supports recycling and retreading globally.

👉 Learn more: BKT Sustainability Initiatives.



5. Practical steps for African businesses

5.1 Choose long-lasting tyres

Durable tyres like BKT AgriMax and EarthMax extend replacement cycles.

5.2 Implement rotation and maintenance

Proper maintenance can add 20–30% to tyre life.

5.3 Partner with recyclers

Work with recycling firms or local councils to responsibly dispose of tyres.

5.4 Explore retreading

Retread BKT tyres when casing integrity is still strong.



6. Case studies from Africa

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  • Nigeria: Start-ups are converting waste tyres into paving tiles and playground surfaces.

  • Kenya: Pilot projects are using crumb rubber for road surfacing, reducing reliance on asphalt.

  • South Africa (reference model): Formal tyre recycling initiatives show how other countries can follow structured frameworks.

These examples prove that sustainable tyre practices are not just possible — they’re profitable.



Conclusion

The future of tyre recycling in Africa depends on businesses, governments, and suppliers working together. By choosing durable BKT tyres and embracing retreading and recycling, Africa can reduce waste while saving costs.

At Tyres Without Borders, we proudly support sustainable tyre use by supplying BKT’s innovative, long-lasting products across the continent.

👉 Explore more on our blog.👉 Browse the full catalogue.👉 Contact us for sustainable tyre solutions: tyreswb.com/contact.



FAQ

Q1: What happens to most waste tyres in Africa? Many are dumped or burned, but recycling and retreading initiatives are expanding to address the problem.

Q2: Are BKT tyres recyclable? Yes. BKT tyres are made with high-quality compounds and casings that support recycling and retreading.

Q3: How does retreading help African fleets? It extends tyre life by thousands of kilometres, reduces costs, and lowers environmental impact.

Q4: Which BKT tyres are best for retreading? The BKT EarthMax series has steel-belted radials designed for multiple retread cycles.

Q5: Where can I find sustainable tyre options in Africa? Through Tyres Without Borders. See our catalogue or contact us.


 
 
 

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