The European tyre and rubber industry has welcomed the European Parliament’s vote on the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), describing it as a step towards greater clarity in sustainability efforts.

The sector has been actively addressing the Regulation’s objectives even before its formal proposal, notably through its involvement in the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR).

“Clear timelines and practical guidance are essential for our industry to comply effectively with the EUDR,” said Adam McCarthy, Secretary General of ETRMA. “We are eager to continue working with EU policymakers to find solutions that benefit the entire supply chain.”

In light of the extended implementation timeline, the industry plans to enhance its systems to ensure compliance. Key measures include expanding the mapping of smallholder farmers to cover a broader supply base, providing them with necessary support, and refining Annex I of the Regulation to avoid any unintended impact on circular economy practices.

The European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA) reaffirmed its commitment to embedding sustainable practices across the natural rubber supply chain. The association also pledged to support the sector’s competitiveness while ensuring a smooth transition to meet the Regulation’s requirements.

This initiative underscores the industry’s long-term dedication to promoting sustainability while aligning with the EU’s environmental goals.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

The Tire Industry Project (TIP) has expanded its international network with the addition of the Thailand Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (TATMA) as its ninth Affiliate Member. This strategic integration marks a significant enlargement of TIP’s operational footprint into Southeast Asia, a critical hub for global tyre production.

Affiliate Members play a vital role in advancing TIP’s core objective of identifying and addressing pressing environmental, social and governance challenges throughout the tyre lifecycle. By contributing crucial regional intelligence, these members bolster TIP’s capacity to observe and interpret evolving industry dynamics, particularly within the burgeoning Southeast Asian market.

The inclusion of TATMA is particularly strategic given Thailand’s status as the second-largest tyre exporter worldwide. The nation is currently fostering a circular economy framework across its tyre sector, presenting substantial opportunities for collaborative research with TIP. This partnership will facilitate a vital exchange of expertise, especially concerning end-of-life tyre management and sustainable circularity practices, while TATMA also oversees local trade, quality standards and environmental compliance.

TIP’s affiliate network comprises trade associations selected for their regional economic impact and ESG relevance. This coalition includes representatives from Australia, India, United Kingdom, Europe, Japan, Korea, Canada and United States, collectively ensuring a comprehensive global perspective on tyre industry sustainability.

Larisa Kryachkova, Executive Director, TIP, said, “We are pleased to welcome TATMA to our network. The tyre trade associations’ local insights inform our global sustainability-related activities. Through our expanding and diverse membership, we are strengthening our shared vision of a sustainable tyre value chain.”

Keeratisuda Khakhong, Secretary General, TATMA, said, “We recognise TIP as the global platform for addressing key ESG challenges facing the tyre industry, particularly in the areas of tyre and road wear particles, ELT and sustainable raw materials. Through this partnership, we look forward to active knowledge exchange, sharing best practices and engaging with global affiliates to support the tyre industry towards a more sustainable future.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

RuLa-BRW, a partner in the AZuR network, has introduced the Berliner BUS400 Premium HL EV, a hot-retreaded tyre engineered specifically for the operational realities of electric city buses. The launch addresses a critical facet of the mobility transition, shifting focus from powertrain emissions to the sustainability of vehicle components. This new offering expands upon the established Berliner BUS400 profile, targeting the distinct mechanical stresses imposed by battery-electric public transport.

Electric buses present unique challenges for tyre design, including substantial weight increases from traction batteries, elevated starting torque and the relentless stop-and-go cycles inherent to urban routes. These factors place considerably greater strain on tyres compared to those used in conventional diesel or gas-powered buses. The BUS400 Premium HL EV has been developed to withstand these rigorous conditions while maintaining performance and safety standards.

The tyre features a robust carcass construction paired with a specialised rubber compound formulated for electric bus traffic, according to RuLa-BRW. This combination is designed to deliver extended mileage, consistent driving stability and cost-effective operation within demanding city environments. The development underscores a commitment to the circular economy, demonstrating how modern retreading techniques can repurpose premium tyre casings multiple times, significantly prolonging their useful life and conserving raw materials.

For public transport operators, the synergy of electromobility and tyre retreading offers tangible operational and environmental benefits. The new tyre enables fleets to reduce new tyre purchases while maximising the service life of existing casings, complementing the zero-emission operation of their vehicles. This innovation highlights that the mobility revolution extends beyond drive systems to encompass the full lifecycle of components, reinforcing the retreading industry’s role in sustainable transport solutions.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

The Alliance for the Future of Tires (AZuR) has expanded its partnership roster with the addition of Machine-Vision.io, a Reutlingen-based innovator that secured first place in the AZuR startup competition LOOP THE TYRE 2026. The company develops artificial intelligence-powered systems for the automated assessment, classification and sorting of used and scrap tyres. Its technology employs advanced image processing, laser scanners and machine learning to detect manufacturer details, tyre type, dimensions, production dates, tread depth, wear patterns and structural damage, delivering objective and reproducible condition reports.

Manual inspection remains the industry norm, with outcomes often shaped by individual employee experience. Machine-Vision.io digitises this workflow, introducing standardised and verifiable quality evaluation capable of handling high-volume tyre inventories. The generated data enables businesses to route suitable tyres towards reuse or retreading operations while directing non-compliant units to appropriate recycling pathways. This systematic approach improves material flow efficiency and strengthens high-grade recycling loops.

Beyond automated evaluation, the startup provides web-based solutions for tyre inventory management and marketing. Test outcomes, stock quantities and quality classifications are captured digitally and can be synchronised with online marketplaces. Such integration enhances transparency across the supply chain and simplifies the matching of tyres with their most suitable next-use applications.

Through its two-year partnership within the AZuR network, Machine-Vision.io will collaborate with companies, researchers and other stakeholders along the entire value chain to advance the tyre circular economy. The initiative illustrates how digitalisation and objective data can support informed decision-making, potentially increasing the supply of retreadable casings and fostering the continued development of sustainable material cycles.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Tana Oy has announced the appointment of AB Equipment as its new authorised distributor for the New Zealand market, a strategic move that bolsters the Finnish manufacturer’s footprint across the Asia-Pacific region. This collaboration is designed to elevate local service capabilities and ensure that New Zealand-based operators receive responsive, on-the-ground support.

AB Equipment, a nationally recognised provider with deep expertise in material handling, construction, forestry and municipal machinery, will now carry Tana’s complete range of landfill compactors and recycling equipment. Leveraging its extensive countrywide service infrastructure and technical proficiency, the distributor is well-equipped to manage customer needs from initial commissioning through to long-term maintenance and repairs.

Within Tana’s global sales network, authorised distributors are instrumental in delivering region-specific knowledge and comprehensive lifecycle care. This latest agreement reinforces that commitment, promising New Zealand customers enhanced reliability and sustained operational value from their Tana machines while further solidifying the brand’s international service standards.

Gerd Schreier, VP Sales and Marketing, Tana Oy, said, “Expanding our distributor network with strong local partners is a key part of our growth strategy. AB Equipment’s deep market knowledge and nationwide coverage make them an excellent fit to represent Tana in New Zealand. Together, we can better support waste management operators with efficient and sustainable solutions.”

Peter Dudson, CEO, AB Equipment, said, “With over a century of experience in heavy equipment and a strong focus on customer support, we are excited to bring Tana’s solutions to the New Zealand market. Tana’s technology aligns well with the needs of our customers, particularly in improving efficiency and supporting more sustainable waste management practices.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!