The Ministry for Environment estimates five million tyres are discarded annually in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Globally, the number is estimated to be in excess of two billion, with less than 20% recycled.

The Motor Trade Association (MTA) estimates about 75% of used tyres in New Zealand are disposed of in landfills. This is a significant environmental issue; tyres can’t be properly compacted meaning they take up a disproportionate amount of space, stockpiles can be a breeding ground for vermin, they can leach dangerous materials into soil, and pose a considerable fire hazard unless properly managed.

Eco Choice Aotearoa’s standard for Recycled Rubber Products has been designed to:

• Reduce the amount of rubber entering the waste stream
• Conserve a valuable resource
• Reduce the use and subsequent release of harmful substances into the environment at all stages of the product lifecycle
• Reduce the impacts of energy use in the production process
• Encourage recovery, reuse, recycling and responsible disposal of waste materials and packaging

This standard can be applied to all products made from recycled rubber, including but not limited to: agricultural and horticultural supplies (i.e. garden hoses and tubing), building and construction materials, containers (i.e. composting units and rubbish bins), marine products (i.e. fenders and bumpers), sporting goods (i.e. sports mats, running tracks) and flooring (i.e. playground surfacing).

Applicants must have an effective product stewardship scheme in place, or show evidence they’re working towards one. In addition, companies must monitor and report on operational emissions, waste, energy and water usage.