Did you know that driving just 40 km a day on average release 5 grams of tire dust?
This dust not only contains rubber but also harmful chemicals like 6PPD, which protects tires but can harm aquatic life, especially fish. Other toxic substances include softeners, oils, and heavy metals, all of which can end up in our water systems via rain.
As a driver, you can help reduce this pollution by choosing eco-friendly tires. Continental, Michelin and Goodyear are amongst industry leaders in developing tires with minimal wear and fewer harmful substances.
Tire Pollution Isn't Visible to Consumers (Yet!)
One of the challenges consumers face today is the lack of transparency regarding how much pollution each tire generates. Currently, there’s no clear labeling or information available to help buyers choose the most environmentally friendly options. This is why it makes sense to consult with your trusted mechanic or tire specialist, who has direct access to tire manufacturers and can offer better advice. The difference between the least and most polluting tires can be as much as 300%! So, there’s a lot to gain from making informed decisions. it’s crucial that we all contribute to reducing this form of pollution. By choosing the right tires, you’re not only protecting your vehicle - but you’re also protecting our planet. Every small action we take, such as choosing our tires wisely, gives us the opportunity to create a more sustainable world for future generations.
ADAC, the German Automobile Association, has conducted several tests on tires, clearly showing how much microplastic different tires leave behind. You can read one of their tests here.
