CO2 Has Taken the Stage
Now, a New Star is Born
While CO2 has been the focus of environmental efforts for years, tire wear and its impact on microplastic pollution is the next issue we need to address. It's time to pay attention to the unseen particles that are being released into the environment every time we drive. This new challenge demands our attention and action, starting with the tires we choose.
As part of the upcoming Euro 7 emission standard, non-exhaust emissions, including particles from tire abrasion, will be regulated for the first time. This new regulation, set to take effect by the end of 2026, will focus on reducing harmful tire particles that contribute to microplastic pollution.
While exact testing methods and limits are still being defined, new passenger car tires (class C1) will be required to meet these standards starting in July 2028. This also extends to light trucks in 2030 and heavy trucks in 2032.
This regulation represents a critical step toward addressing the environmental impact of tire wear and emphasizes the importance of tire manufacturers, like Continental, Michelin and Goodyear, in developing low-emission tire technologies.
By introducing these limits, the Euro 7 standard aims to protect both public health and the environment, reducing the amount of harmful particles entering our air and water from everyday vehicle use.
You can read more about the Euro 7 emission standards here.
For further reading, you can explore:
European Commission’s press corner on Euro 7
MobilityNotes summary on Euro 7
