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Published on August 29th, 2008

EPA Looks to Curb Tires Using Lead Weights

by Trey Granger

The U.S. EPA has partnered with tire manufacturers and retailers to begin phasing in lead-free tire weights, hoping to greatly reduce the amount of lead that ends up in roads and landfills by 2012. The official announcement of the program took place at today’s IndyCar race in Detroit.

The EPA estimates that 50 million pounds of lead are used annually for wheel weights. While these weights help keep tires balanced and long-lasting, they can commonly fall off at a pothole or sudden stop. They also end up in landfills when tires are replaced and not recycled.

Lead can contaminate water if improperly disposed, and may cause health effects for young children. It has already been banned as an ingredient in paint.

One way you can help keep lead weights out of landfills is by recycling your unused tires. Find a tire recycling location using Earth911.

Trey Granger

Trey Granger

Trey Granger is a staff member at Earth911.com.

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