Management of used tires in the city of Tunja, Boyacá (Colombia) Gestión de llantas usadas en la ciudad de Tunja, Boyacá (Colombia)

Abstract

Millions of tires are produced annually to satisfy the world demand, which is associated with an increase in the generation of used tire. Their management is a challenge considering that disposal in sanitary landfills is not allowed in some countries, including Colombia, due to their high biological and chemical resistance to degradation; therefore, their inadequate handling and the lack of management mechanisms generate negative impacts on health and the environment. A study was conducted on the management of used tires in Tunja, Boyacá (Colombia), to inquire aspects related to their disposal and management in the city, as well as on the knowledge of post-consumer programs, use, and compliance with current environmental regulations. For the collection of primary information, structured surveys were applied to companies registered with the Chamber of Commerce of the municipality that carry out activities related to the generation of used tires, such as service shops, mechanic shops or tire repair shops. The study showed that the largest generators of this waste are tire assemblers, with an average of between 20 and 40 units per month, with a higher percentage of rims 13 and 14, which would indicate a projection of 360 tires annually per establishment, without considering the sites that are not legally registered. In general, for the progress in the management of used tires in Tunja, the development of alternatives is recommended in an articulated manner between the different actors directly involved, such as producers, managers, distributors and marketers, consumers, and regional and municipal environmental authorities.