What the Project Is: Circular Solutions for Rubber, Plastic, and Petrochemical Supply Chains
Bolder Industries has revolutionized waste management by converting end-of-life tires into valuable resources. The mission is simple yet transformative: “1.5 billion tires are discarded annually,” and by taking these tires that would otherwise clutter landfills (or worse), Bolder Industries gives raw materials a completely new life. With a process that’s been commercially tested and proven, end-of-life tires destined for waste are converted into sustainable carbon black alternatives and petrochemicals. The company’s prized product, BolderBlack, offers a carbon black alternative that replaces traditional, petroleum-derived carbon black used in rubber reinforcement and as a black pigment in plastics. The entire operation unfolds in a 24/7 facility that embodies an elegant blend of technology, sustainability, and commercial achievement.
Main Benefit: Sustainable Resource Utilization and Environmental Impact
Bolder Industries’ approach delivers tangible benefits while addressing the pressing environmental challenges of today. Key figures and facts include:
- “1.5 billion tires are discarded annually” – a staggering statistic that underlines the need for innovative recycling.
- The process uses 90% less CO2, H2O, and energy compared to traditional methods.
- BolderBlack replaces petroleum-derived carbon black in manufacturing, reducing dependency on non-renewable resources.
- The production facility is ISO 9001:2015 certified, ensuring high quality and continuous improvement.
- Products are ISCC PLUS certified as circular raw materials, setting a high environmental standard.
Innovative Process and Technology
After years of dedicated research and development, the breakthrough conversion process now makes sustainable plastic and rubber a reality. Bolder Industries pioneered the conversion of old tires into products like BolderBlack, BolderOil, and even extracts BolderSteel, not to mention generating energy along the way. The proprietary, continuous process not only diverts waste from landfills but also produces a high-performance carbon black alternative that major global brands have vetted and integrated into new tires, automotive parts, construction materials, consumer goods, apparel, and petrochemical products. It’s a method that’s as innovative as it is necessary… blending old materials with newfound purpose.
Commitment to Sustainability and Local Impact
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s a tangible way of doing business. Bolder Industries has set clear goals that include reducing unnecessary landfilling, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and curbing excessive power and water consumption. All of these actions come together to create local jobs and foster a genuine team/family environment, all while ensuring that profits are generated in a responsible and engaging fashion. The company’s strategies exemplify how environmental stewardship can be truly integrated into everyday industrial processes.
Products and Applications in Various Industries
Bolder Industries’ North Star is BolderBlack – a sustainable, carbon black alternative produced entirely from post-consumer or post-industrial tires and rubber scrap. This innovative ingredient finds applications in a multitude of industries. For instance, new tires and automotive parts receive a boost in performance and sustainability by incorporating BolderBlack. Construction materials, consumer goods, and even apparel benefit from this recycled resource, making its way into countless products around the globe. The Bledsoe Innovation Group, a dedicated compounding lab, collaborates closely with customers to develop custom BolderBlack formulations that meet specific application requirements. This level of customization highlights the adaptability of the product and reassures industries that sustainability and performance can coexist.
Detailed Process and Operational Excellence
In a process perfected over years of R&D, end-of-life tires undergo a transformation that sees raw materials reborn into valuable, sustainable outputs. The facility runs 24/7, driven by a proprietary process that is not only efficient—it sets the industry standard. The operations are meticulous and rigorous: only post-consumer or post-industrial tires and rubber scrap are used, meticulously processed to ensure maximum quality into every batch of BolderBlack. This elegant process is a testament to thoughtful reuse and shows that even materials once destined for landfill can be the cornerstone of innovative, environmentally friendly manufacturing.
Project Impact: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – creating jobs and boosting local economies.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – revolutionizing manufacturing processes while promoting sustainable practices.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – reducing waste and enhancing recycling measures.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – optimizing resource use and reducing environmental footprints.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – slashing greenhouse gas emissions and using significantly less energy in production.
Vision for a Sustainable Future
Bolder Industries is on a remarkable journey, turning the urgent challenge of waste management into an opportunity for innovation and environmental responsibility. The vision is clear: pave the way for a future where the materials used in everyday products are truly sustainable. As the CEO Tony Wibbeler states, the thoughtful reuse of valuable materials has proven that sustainability in manufacturing isn’t just achievable—it’s already a reality. The narrative is set by a mission-driven approach where people, planet, and products hold equal importance. This enduring commitment drives the transformation of traditional supply chains into circular economies, ensuring that products like BolderBlack not only meet current market needs but also contribute robustly to a greener, healthier planet. In essence, a small change in material sourcing creates a big impact… a testament to the power of innovation in addressing the global challenges of waste and environmental degradation.
