The European Rubber Journal reports that Tyres Europe has raised concerns about possible restrictions on tire materials under future EU ecodesign requirements, arguing that such measures should remain within the scope of the REACH chemicals safety framework.

The European Commission has identified tires as one of the priority product groups to be regulated under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, with a delegated act expected in 2027.

In a position paper published on June 5, Tyres Europe said it strongly opposes restrictions on materials or substances unless individual impact assessments are carried out.

Association calls for evidence-based approach

Tyres Europe said any restrictions should be supported by quantified evidence showing that specific materials hinder tire recycling or the treatment of end-of-life tires.

The association said removing materials such as sealants, foams and reinforcement systems would not necessarily increase the treatment of end-of-life tires, as currently suggested in preparatory work on ecodesign criteria for tires.

According to Tyres Europe, demand for higher-value applications within the waste hierarchy remains insufficient and should be developed before material restrictions are considered.

End-of-life tire treatment routes under review

Tyres Europe noted that around half of end-of-life tires are currently sent to co-incineration, a share it said is significantly higher than the market share of tires containing sealants or foams.

The association said this indicates that co-incineration and similar routes are not mainly driven by the presence of these materials in tires.

The issue is part of a wider discussion in Europe about how future product design rules can support tire recycling, rubber recycling and circular economy objectives while maintaining safety and performance requirements.

Use-phase benefits should be assessed

Tyres Europe said technologies such as sealants, foams and reinforcement systems are developed to reduce premature tire replacement, extend usable tire life and lower overall material demand.

The association said that if any of these technologies create serious recycling challenges, those impacts should be compared with the safety and environmental benefits delivered during the tire’s use phase.

Tyres Europe urged EU policymakers to focus on the overall environmental footprint of tires and on safety as the future ecodesign framework is developed.

To read the full article, please proceed to the European Rubber Journal.