By Amanda, OTS Brand Ambassador

Looking back at all the shows and events this year’s RethinkTires Roadtrip visited, it’s hard to pick my favourite moment. I had a blast being part of the Ontario Tire Stewardship (OTS) team this summer. I’ve been an ambassador for other programs in the past, but this summer was by far my best experience in the field!

From traveling from city-to-city, to setting up the OTS booth at fairs, the best part of the roadtrip was having meaningful and in-depth conversations with event-goers.  As it’s all for such a good cause, I found it so easy to talk about OTS and show the public how bringing their old tires to their local tire collector can really make a difference in their community.

Every day I saw people’s perception about used tires change. The reaction we received when we told people that beautiful yet durable home and outdoor products such as planters, mulch, and garden edging were actually made from old tires was priceless!

In our booth we exhibited different tire derived products (TDPs) for people to see, touch and experience. Although the initial cost may be higher, the longevity, sustainability and long-term cost savings makes purchasing a TDP the smart and economical choice for any project. To prove it to visitors, we had them check out the ROI Calculator on the RethinkTires website, which showed what a difference choosing a TDP could make on their wallets. A few TDP products even caught my eye and I ended up buying MultyHome’s Tierra Verde planters and landscaping tiles at The Home Depot for my own backyard, and my family loves them!

This roadtrip was also the best way to educate Ontarians about our provincial tire recycling program. Going from town to town, city by city, we were able to reiterate the value of the Used Tires Program, promote and demonstrate tire maintenance tips, and showcase TDPs. Throughout the roadtrip, we handed out many tread wear indicators, tire pressure gauges and jar openers/ coasters, lovingly called the “Joasters” (which are made from recycled tires).

This was an amazing summer that I will never forget and that’s all because of the RethinkTires Roadtrip. I want to thank OTS for the opportunity to represent this program and all of the event organizers and attendees for making the tour so enjoyable. I also made some incredible friends in the process – what could be more fun?

Next time you see the RethinkTires Roadtrip booth in your town, make sure you come by to see first-hand why the program is key to help pave the way for Ontario’s sustainable future.