Rubber is not one single material. Natural rubber comes from latex harvested from the Para rubber tree. Recycled rubber is made from used tyres that are ground into crumb and reformed. Reclaimed rubber is discarded elastomer that has been de-vulcanised so it can be processed again.
Natural rubber is a renewable resource when plantations are managed responsibly. Recycled rubber keeps tyre waste out of landfills and is used for flooring, playground safety products, mulch, barriers and other durable goods. Reclaimed rubber requires additional processing, but can extend the useful life of discarded material.
The practical answer
Natural, recycled and reclaimed rubber can all support environmentally friendlier applications. The environmental impact depends on sourcing, manufacturing practices, energy use and how products are handled at the end of their service life.