Would you have guessed that this sculpture, by Chakaia Booker, was made completely out of old tires?  It’s amazing what all people have created out of the old pieces of rubber.

Nowadays everything is going green.  It seems no matter what the object, people want to make the manufacturing, using, and disposing of products better for the environment.  Much of the time these improvements add hassle factor, however it seems the benefits of doing so outweigh the inconveniences.  Recycling tires properly can be quite a task though.  The EPA estimates that about 265 million tires are just laying around at stockpiles.  So what can you do with your old tires?  Below is a collection of some of the most creative, fascinating, and in some cases humorous uses for old tires.

People have been creating swings out of tires for ages.

Nothing new here.  But how cool would your kids be swinging from a tree in one of these babies?

That’s right, Abundant Earth has transformed the old boring tire swing into T-Rex’s and Motorcycles.  Check out their selection if you want your kid to be the coolest on the block!

Many people have found uses for old tires around the house and in the garden.

Animal inspired designs act as planters and signs.

Several artists have taken tire art to a whole new level.

Scott Hocking created a tire pyramid:

David Mach built a submarine

Chakaia Booker (opening picture) created an exhibit called “Rubbermade.”

Yong Ho Ji also found inspiration from tires, and creates spectacular animals.

Other amazing animal creations (artists unknown)

My personal favorite use of tires is Indianapolis’ Artful Treads event, held every year on Mass. Ave in the Cultural District.  To celebrate the cities’ racing events in May, every store competes in a tire decorating competition.  My favorites are featured below.

So the next time you have tires to dispose of, just imagine all of the possibilities!