Tire Recycling Leaders to Gather in Denver for 2026 Conference Under the Theme “Tread Boldly”

According to a recent announcement by the Tire Recycling Foundation (TRF), the 10th Tire Recycling Conference will be held from May 12 to 14, 2026, in Denver, Colorado, under the theme “Tread Boldly: Advancing Tire Recycling Through Collective Innovation.” The biennial event aims to accelerate progress toward a circular and sustainable end-of-life tire (ELT) management system through research-driven collaboration and coordinated industry action.

Driving Circularity Through Collaboration

As reported by TRF, the Tire Recycling Conference has, for more than two decades, served as a leading forum for industry professionals, policymakers, and researchers to exchange ideas and promote innovation in tire recycling. “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,” said Anne Forristall Luke, President of the TRF Board.

It is reported that the upcoming event will feature keynote speeches from prominent industry figures, panel discussions on emerging recycling technologies, and policy-focused sessions examining the future of ELT markets—particularly rubber-modified asphalt (RMA), a growing application that combines environmental benefits with infrastructure durability.

Expanding End-Use Markets

According to TRF Executive Director Stephanie Mull, expanding applications for recycled tires requires “bold action rooted in research, education, effective state programs, and collaboration.” She described the theme “Tread Boldly” as “a call to action for every stakeholder in the tire recycling ecosystem.”

Her comments echo findings from the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA), which reports that tires remain among the most recycled materials in the United States. However, it is reported that the generation of ELTs continues to outpace the consumption of recycled tire rubber, highlighting the need for stronger end-use markets and innovative recycling infrastructure.

USTMA reports highlight that applications such as rubber-modified asphalt (RMA) can significantly reduce tire stockpiles while delivering both environmental and economic gains, including new jobs and longer-lasting roads. Industry observers suggest that tire recycling is becoming a more strategic component of the circular economy and of national sustainability objectives.

As noted by TRF, state-level ELT programs—when effectively managed—can serve as catalysts for market development and technological innovation. With growing attention on waste reduction and carbon neutrality, the tire recycling sector is expected to attract increased investment in advanced processing technologies and material recovery systems.

According to John Sheerin, Senior Director of End-of-Life Tires at USTMA, the 2026 conference will “showcase the strength of end-use markets and the power of collective innovation,” inviting participants from manufacturing, recycling, policymaking, and research fields to help shape the industry’s future.

Registration and Additional Information

According to the Foundation, early registration for the 2026 Tire Recycling Conference is now open. Further details about the event agenda, speakers, and sponsorship opportunities are available on the Tire Recycling Foundation’s official website at tirerecyclingfoundation.org/tire-recycling-conference.

Source: The Tire Recycling Foundation