Local Middle School Takes Advantage of Flourishing Tire Recycling Program
-
Share on Facebook
-
Share on Twitter
- Copy Link
LETHBRIDGE – Alberta’s tire recycling program reached a huge milestone that was celebrated in Lethbridge on Friday.
Since its inception in 1992, more than 100-million tires have been recycled at 350 collection sites across the province. Typically, they are then used to make other useful products, like bricks, planters, rig mats, roofing tiles and much more.
The Alberta Recycling Management Authority, a non-proft association that manages tire, electronic and paint recycling, reports that Albertans recycle 6-million tires every year. Each of the three recycling program is funded through an environmental fee applied to the sale of eligible products.
Environment Minister Shannon Phillips, Lethbridge-East MLA Maria Fitzpatrick and other local dignitaries were on-hand Friday, as Gilbert Paterson Middle School unveiled its new playground. The new build features a safe, accessible surface made out of 100,000-pounds of rubber crumb, or 7,560 scrap tires.
It includes two large climbing nets, a 20-foot zipline and two saucer swings, as well as a smaller structure for younger children to enjoy. It came to a price tag of approximately $370,000, with 40 volunteers each day helping complete the build over three days.
The project is part of the Gilbert Paterson Tiger Society’s mission to provide an environment where active and creative minds can develop.
“[This achievement] means that in every community there is a determination to do the right thing,” added Minister Phillips. “Through Alberta’s tire recycling program, valuable material is diverted from landfills and recycled, creating jobs and new products that come back full-circle into our communities.”
