Nearly all Minneapolis public school playgrounds are now using shredded waste tires as cushioning under outdoor play equipment. 

Unfortunately, scientific evidence shows that the toxins found in waste tires leach into the soil and off-gas into the breathing space above these materials.

Waste tires contain arsenic, lead, and other metals, as well as carbon black nanoparticles, which are linked to lung inflammation and cell death.

In addition, a recent analysis identified 96 chemicals, including irritants, probable carcinogens, and many that never been assessed for human health impacts.

Because of their toxicity and ignitability, waste tires are barred from disposal in landfills. The U.S. Government previously promoted the re-use of waste tires as playground infill, but the EPA now says more study is needed to determine the health impacts of these materials. 

Due to health concerns, the Los Angeles Unified School District, the City of Los Angeles, the City of New York, and Montgomery County, Maryland, have banned waste tire products in children’s play spaces.

Please join parents of Minneapolis school children as we call for shredded waste tires to be removed from school playgrounds and replaced with non-toxic alternatives.

 [You can help! Please email Nancy at playitsafeminneapolis@gmail.com or connect at facebook.com/playitsafeminneapolis]