Application of a computerised resource analysis model to used tyre disposal

Abstract

A practical systems-based methodology for the investigation of the environmental impact of alternative resource recovery strategies is described in application to the problem of used car tyre disposal. The study involved the construction of a computer-based model of the car tyre system and the use of this model to examine various scenarios. A short-term plan for dealing with the car tyre disposal problem in the United Kingdom is suggested from the model. This involves placing a greater emphasis on the recycling of re-usable tyre carcasses and on the use of reclaimed rubber, and the increased use of incinerators to generate power from those used tyres which would otherwise be tipped. The methodology itself is of quite general application and could be used in many other areas for resource or environmental impact analysis.