End-of-life tires were presented not as waste, but as valuable secondary raw materials in the latest edition of the video series “66 seconds for the future” by forum future economy. In the video, Christina Guth, coordinator of AZuR (Allianz Zukunft Reifen), outlined how a well-functioning tire circular economy could play a meaningful role in resource conservation, CO₂ reduction and the advancement of a genuine circular economy.

Video by 66 Seconds for the Future Forum.

Guth emphasised that tires contained high-quality materials that should remain in use for as long as possible. Extending tire lifespans through repair and retreading was highlighted as a key lever to reduce resource consumption and environmental impact. At the end of their service life, tires should be recycled in ways that recover valuable materials and return them to the economic cycle, rather than being prematurely diverted to energy recovery.

A central message of the contribution was the need for collective action. Guth called on policymakers, industry and society to work together to strengthen circular solutions for tires, improve recycling pathways and create the framework conditions needed to prioritise material recovery over incineration.

The video reinforced AZuR's core message: a sustainable tire value chain is achievable, but only if all stakeholders commit to rethinking how tires are used, collected and recycled.