Connecticut became the first US state to implement a producer-led tyre stewardship programme, introducing an extended producer responsibility (EPR) system that shifts responsibility for end-of-life tyres from consumers to tyre producers
The programme is administered by Connecticut Tire Stewardship LLC (CTS) under the oversight of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and requires tyre manufacturers, brand owners, importers and, in some cases, retailers supplying new tyres into the state to join an approved tyre stewardship organisation as a condition of selling tyres in Connecticut.
Funded through producer contributions (typically a $2 fee per passenger tyre), the scheme aims to establish a statewide network for the collection, transportation and recycling of discarded tyres. The scheme also requires producers to meet collection and recycling targets and support annual reporting on programme performance.
Retailers, automotive service providers, fleet operators and transfer stations are not required to participate but may voluntarily join the scheme as collection points. Participating collection sites must accept end-of-life tyres free of charge, comply with state storage and handling requirements, and use authorised transporters and processors.
The programme is designed to increase tyre recycling, expand consumer access to collection services and promote a more circular approach to tyre management by placing responsibility for end-of-life tyres on those introducing products to the Connecticut market.
