Pirelli to Introduce FSC-Certified Natural Rubber Tyres by 2026
The FSC logo (Forestry Stewardship Council) carries eco credentials
When it comes to the components of a car, tyres are one of the most complex, requiring a blend of various materials. However, their sustainability has been a concern due to the sourcing of raw materials, particularly natural rubber.
Pirelli has recently announced its commitment to FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) certifying all natural rubber and rayon in its tyres by 2026. This move towards sustainability will be showcased in the upcoming Range Rover Electric, making Jaguar Land Rover the first manufacturer to adopt these eco-friendly tyres on a large scale. Rayon, a material made from natural sources like wood and natural fibers, is regenerated as cellulose fibers.
The FSC certification ensures that plantations are managed in a way that preserves biodiversity and benefits local communities. It also guarantees that the certified materials are segregated and free from contamination during the production process.
Pirelli’s use of FSC-certified natural rubber and rayon in the Jaguar Land Rover lineup is not entirely new. The company introduced the first FSC-certified natural rubber and rayon road tyre in 2021. Additionally, Pirelli has incorporated certified natural rubber into its Formula 1 tyres, accounting for 15% of the total weight, and the Pirelli P Zero Race RS, where 23% of the tyre’s weight consists of certified natural rubber.
Other tyre manufacturers are also taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of their products. Michelin, for example, is working on producing bio-based synthetic rubber using bioethanol instead of petroleum. They have successfully produced it on an industrial scale at a demonstrator plant. Additionally, manufacturers are exploring alternatives to environmentally damaging materials, such as using rice husk ash to produce silica and recycling materials like PET bottles and steel cords.
With these advancements, Michelin has already achieved 45% sustainable materials in their road tyres, while Continental’s UltraContact NXT offers up to 65% recycled, renewable, and certified materials.
By prioritizing sustainability and obtaining FSC certification, Pirelli is leading the way in creating more eco-friendly tyres, setting a new standard for the industry.
