Manufacturing Emission Management
During the manufacture of tires, some portion of the raw materials become “waste” and must be managed properly. For example, volatile materials in cements and solvents are emitted into the atmosphere, and solid wastes are recycled or disposed. Traditionally in the tire industry, disposal often involved landfill disposal. Cooper works to minimize emissions into the atmosphere and to recycle solid waste where feasible.
Cement and Solvent Emissions
Cooper uses cements and solvents in tire manufacturing to promote adhesion between tire components prior to tire curing when chemical reactions bind the components together. The cements and solvents contain volatile organic compounds (VOC) which evaporate into the atmosphere during usage. Cooper has been working to reduce cement and solvent usage for many years by reformulating rubber compounds and improving material management. This is good for the environment since reduced cement and solvent usage means reduced VOC emissions. The graphic illustrates reductions in VOC emissions related to cement and solvent usage at U.S. tire plants since 2003.
Texarkana, Ark., Plant Reduces Landfill Usage
Cooper’s Texarkana, Ark., plant initiated a program in 2007 to reduce landfill disposal of waste through increased awareness, waste minimization and recycling. A cross-functional team worked to remove recyclable materials from the routine landfill waste and process and market those materials. This program improved management of cardboard and wood waste and resulted in the recycling or the use of some production scrap as fuel. Ground rubber waste, which was formerly landfilled, is now being used as a supplemental fuel by a local paper mill. Other Cooper plants are engaged in programs to reduce landfill usage.