Key Takeaways
• Australia generates millions of waste tyres annually, but recycled roads are turning
this challenge into an opportunity.
• Crumb rubber asphalt improves grip, reduces noise, and extends road life
compared to traditional surfaces.
• States like Victoria, Queensland, and New South Wales are leading the way in
recycled road innovation.
• Drivers benefit from smoother, quieter, and more durable roads, along with reduced
environmental impact.
• Choosing quality tyres and proper maintenance with EverTyres helps reduce tyre
waste and supports sustainable practices.
Recycled Roads: How Old Tyres Are Paving
the Future in Australia
When you think of a road trip across Australia, chances are you picture long stretches of
highway, dusty Outback tracks, or coastal roads winding along the ocean. What most
drivers don’t consider is what lies beneath their tyres. Every kilometre we travel, our
vehicles are supported by materials that once started life as rubber, concrete, or asphalt.
Today, an innovation is reshaping the very roads we drive on, turning old tyres into a
sustainable solution. Australia’s growing investment in recycled roads not only addresses
the pressing issue of tyre waste but also paves the way for safer, more durable, and
environmentally friendly infrastructure.
The Scale of the Tyre Waste Challenge
Each year, Australia discards millions of tyres. Some estimates suggest more than 56
million end up as waste annually, with a large portion once being shipped overseas for
disposal. With export bans now in place, the country has had to face the problem head-on.
Stockpiled or illegally dumped tyres are not only unsightly but also dangerous. They pose
fire risks, release toxins when burnt, and create breeding grounds for mosquitoes when left
in the open. For years, managing end-of-life tyres has been a challenge for councils,
businesses, and consumers alike.
This has led to a shift in how Australians think about tyres. Instead of seeing them as a
disposable product, they’re now part of a bigger circular economy. Tyre recycling is no
longer a niche idea. It is becoming mainstream, with industries and governments
recognising that waste tyres can be transformed into something valuable.
From Waste to Roads: The Science of Recycled Tyres
The breakthrough lies in a process called “crumb rubber recycling.” Old tyres are shredded
into fine granules, often referred to as crumb rubber. These rubber particles are then
blended with traditional road materials such as asphalt and bitumen. The result is a road
surface that is not only strong but also flexible, meaning it can withstand extreme
Australian conditions better than standard roads.
Crumb rubber asphalt has several benefits. It improves grip and reduces road noise,
making driving more comfortable. It also extends the life of the road surface, which means
fewer potholes and less maintenance for councils and road authorities. In fact, many
experts argue that roads made with recycled tyres are more cost-effective in the long term,
since they last longer under heavy traffic and harsh weather.
The process itself is a win for both the environment and infrastructure. Every kilometre of
road made with recycled tyres diverts thousands of tyres from landfills or illegal dumping
sites. This is a solution that doesn’t just tackle waste but actively improves the driving
experience for Australians.
Australia’s Role as a Global Leader
While countries around the world are experimenting with recycled tyre roads, Australia has
quickly become a leader in this space. Several states have already laid down stretches of
road using crumb rubber asphalt, with impressive results.
In Victoria, the Department of Transport has trialled recycled tyre roads on both highways
and suburban streets, with early findings showing lower noise levels and improved
durability. Queensland has also committed to using crumb rubber in its road projects, with
estimates that a single kilometre of recycled road can use the equivalent of 75,000 old
tyres. New South Wales councils are also adopting the technology, turning local roads into
test sites for sustainable infrastructure.
These projects demonstrate Australia’s ability to take a serious environmental issue and
turn it into a practical, forward-looking solution. Instead of treating tyres as waste, they are
now recognised as a resource - one that can directly benefit communities.
Why Recycled Roads Matter for Drivers
For everyday drivers, recycled roads may not look much different from traditional ones, but
they make a noticeable difference over time. Roads made with crumb rubber are
smoother, which reduces vehicle wear and tear. They also absorb sound better, leading to
quieter journeys, particularly in suburban areas. Most importantly, they’re more durable,
meaning fewer disruptions from roadworks and repairs.
From an environmental perspective, these roads significantly reduce the carbon footprint
associated with infrastructure. By reusing tyres, the need for raw materials is reduced, and
harmful emissions from tyre burning or long-distance waste transport are avoided. This
kind of innovation directly benefits drivers, taxpayers, and the planet.
For fleet operators, tradies, and long-distance drivers who rely on all-terrain tyres or mudterrain tyres, the idea of stronger, longer-lasting roads means improved reliability and
reduced risk of damage. For city drivers using touring tyres, quieter and smoother
commutes are an added bonus.
What This Means for Everyday Car Owners
The rise of recycled roads is a positive step, but drivers also have a role to play in reducing
tyre waste. Choosing durable, high-quality tyres from trusted sellers like EverTyres is one
way to make a difference. By investing in tyres designed for your lifestyle and local
conditions, you extend their lifespan and reduce how often they need replacing.
Maintenance also matters. Simple habits like keeping tyres properly inflated, rotating them
regularly, and checking tread depth can dramatically extend their usability. The longer your
tyres last, the fewer you send into the recycling stream, reducing the overall burden on the
environment.
Supporting businesses that prioritise sustainability is another step. At EverTyres, our wide
range of performance tyres, all-terrain options, and touring models not only meet safety
standards but also align with the push towards a more sustainable tyre industry.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future on Wheels
Recycled roads are more than just a clever solution to a waste problem. They symbolise a
broader shift in how Australians think about resources, sustainability, and infrastructure.
By turning old tyres into stronger roads, we are reducing environmental harm while creating
lasting benefits for communities and drivers.
The next time you head out on a drive, whether it’s a quick city commute or a long haul
through the Outback, remember that the road beneath your tyres could well be part of a
new cycle - one that begins with responsible choices, recycling innovation, and a
commitment to a cleaner future.
At EverTyres, we are proud to support drivers who value both performance and
responsibility. With the right tyres and a commitment to sustainability, together we can
help shape the future of driving in Australia.
