Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group and Mitsui & Co. have announced the formation of a joint venture aimed at advancing mining tire recycling solutions for mining regions around the world.
At a time when many mines are striving to act on ESG commitments, the collaboration will support burgeoning demand for solutions to handle end-of-life mining tires in ways that lead to the best and highest use of recycled rubber products, and promote a circular economy.
In addition to providing mining tire management and supply at more than 150 mine sites across five continents, Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group offers a range of sustainability solutions to help mines extend tire life, divert scrap and reduce their carbon footprint. One of those solutions is a thermal conversion OTR tire recycling facility in Chile, where scrap ultra-class tires are converted to their base elements (carbon black, oil and steel) for reuse. Virtually 100 percent of the tire can be reused.
Among Mitsui’s expansive global operating segments are mineral and metal resources, chemicals, energy, iron and steel products, and machinery and infrastructure. With an aim to promote sustainability and realize a circular economy, Mitsui is focusing its investment in the mining industry on environmental solutions. Both Mitsui and Kal Tire recognize a growing demand for mining tire recycling and recycled rubber products, specifically for carbon black and rCB.
Kal Tire’s thermal conversion recycling facility in Chile is the first operating facility of its kind, and the two organizations aim to collaborate on commercializing the plant starting early 2023. The Chilean plant provides the foundation as the joint venture pursues opportunities to bring OTR tire recycling solutions to mining regions around the world-leaning on Kal Tire’s technology and service to mines, and Mitsui’s experience with chemical and engineering innovation, downstream markets and as shareholders and stakeholders inside mining organizations. Together, the organizations will help companies understand the value of mining tire recycling and act on ESG commitments.
