Nigerian company, Freee Recycle turns tyres into tiles and bricks
Nigerian firm Freee Recycle is combating landfill overflow by repurposing old tires into various products, sold nationwide. Globally, a report by the Tire Industry Project reveals one billion end-of-life tires are generated annually, with an estimated four billion in landfills and stockpiles. Freee Recycle, established in 2018, has transformed over 400,000 tires into paving
Nigerian company, Freee Recycle turns tyres into tiles and bricks
Nigerian firm Freee Recycle is combating landfill overflow by repurposing old tires into various products, sold nationwide.
Globally, a report by the Tire Industry Project reveals one billion end-of-life tires are generated annually, with an estimated four billion in landfills and stockpiles. Freee Recycle, established in 2018, has transformed over 400,000 tires into paving bricks, floor tiles, flip flops, and more. Managing director Ifedolapo Runsewe highlights the ubiquity of discarded tires in Nigeria and the need for innovative solutions.
The recycling process involves shredding tires into small pieces, mixed with adhesive, allowing workers to craft diverse products. Runsewe emphasizes the versatility of tire materials, including rubber, steel, and fiber.
The company’s popular rubber paving stones, priced at $60 for a set of 40, offer an extended shelf life compared to traditional counterparts, justifying their slightly higher cost. Freee Recycle’s products are available in major Nigerian cities.
Despite the success, challenges exist, such as the logistics of transporting raw materials to recycling sites. Bolanle Emmanuel of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council suggests establishing recycling centers in various communities to streamline the process.
— Freee Recycle Limited (@Freee_Recycle) January 10, 2024
Freee Recycle claims to have prevented over 8,100 tonnes of CO2 emissions since inception. Construction engineer Eid Zouki, who commissioned the company for a school flooring project, praises their environmentally conscious approach. He hopes the global trend towards sustainability and reusing materials will gain traction in Africa.
