Mexico

ELT are managed according to an official standard, the NOM-161-SEMARNAT-2011, which requires the implementation of an ELT Management Plan, followed by tire producers, manufacturers, importers and exporters.

There have been no changes in legislation since 2016, though there have been discussions about setting up an EPR system.

SEMARNAT (Secretaria de Medio Ambiente y de Recursos Naturales) is the governmental body in charge of environmental policy-making, and which established the ELT Management Plan. The MRLL (Manejo responsible Llantas Usadas) manages the ELT recovered by the members reporting to SEMARNAT.

Energy recovery Via cement kilns (14.3%) is the major recovery route, followed by material recovery (6%) comprising ground rubber and tire-derived products.

• Low level of awareness of environmental issues.
• The United States/ Mexico border region has been undergoing large clean-up programs.

• Rubber-modified asphalt perceived as a promising technology, encouraged by American neighbours (Arizona, California).
• A recycling company developed a line of waterproof construction products, partially made with ELT rubber powder.

• Current shared responsibility system and discussions on a potential EPR system.
• Cooperation with the United States for clean-up programs.

• Large volumes of unauthorized used and waste tire imports into Mexico.
• High collection and transportation costs (inflation in the transport sector and increase in oil prices in 2017).