Ontario raises tire recycling target after backlog

Ontario is increasing its tire recycling target as the province works to clear a growing backlog of used tires that built up after rule changes made in January 2025. The Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority said tire manufacturers will now have to recycle 80% of used tires by weight, up from the lower target set earlier this year. The province is also planning to expand the number of required collection sites from about 4,300 to roughly 6,500 in 2027. Officials said the changes are meant to improve tire collection and reduce stockpiles across Ontario. Auto shops and tire dealers have reported delays and limited space for used tires, and industry representatives said the backlog became more severe over the past year. They said the revised target should help, though it may take months before the effects are visible.