In Europe, a wide variety of rubber products are available for recycling, contributing to the circular economy. Tires are the most prominent ones. Annually, countless end-of-life tires from automobiles and trucks are collected. They are first shredded into smaller pieces, then further processed through grinding to obtain rubber granules and powders. These are reused in manufacturing new tires, playground surfaces, and road construction materials, enhancing durability and flexibility.

Industrial rubber items like seals, hoses, and conveyor belts also make up a significant portion. Once discarded by factories, they undergo mechanical treatment to separate the rubber from metal or fabric components. The purified rubber is remolded or compounded to fabricate similar industrial products, reducing the need for virgin materials.

Moreover, daily-used rubber products such as gloves, shoes, and toys are recyclable too. Gloves from medical and industrial sectors are decontaminated, pulverized, and reincorporated into the production of items like rubber mats. Old shoes have their soles and uppers separated, with the rubber soles being recycled for new footwear or flooring. Through these recycling processes, Europe not only manages waste effectively but also conserves resources and cuts down on environmental impacts.