Have you noticed a new logo on some Pirelli tires? I admit I'm a bit late since this news dates back to last September, but I'm still asking the question. For almost a year now, the company has introduced its own eco-friendly certification in the form of a small pictogram composed of two arrows symbolizing the renewable nature of its materials. The first tire to benefit from this new designation is the P Zero E, which fans of our blog (and I'm sure there are many) have probably already heard about. However, even these avid readers may not be aware of the details behind the image printed on the rim of some Pirelli tires...
Reduction of emissions: 2030 goal
All tire manufacturers have set themselves a similar mission, namely reducing their environmental impact through wise material choices and production line changes. Pirelli seems to be at the forefront of innovation as its goals for 2025 were already achieved... last year! By 2030, the company aims to reduce the proportion of fossil fuel-based ingredients in all its products to just 30%. This will be made possible, among other things, by a new generation of products that will carry its new eco-friendly logo.
To ensure the validity of the results, Pirelli has even turned to Bureau Veritas, a company specializing in product compliance verification and certification. This independent entity allows for an impartial analysis of Pirelli products and an even more transparent process. Transparency is very important to the manufacturer, even in its choice of terms used. You will notice that Pirelli products indicate the minimum quantity ("at least X%") of materials from renewable sources and not the maximum quantity ("up to X%") like other companies.
Rice, wood, and rubber
Who would have thought that so many plants could be so useful in tire manufacturing? Naturally, natural rubber from the hevea tree plays an important role, but it is not the only plant used by Pirelli to reduce its carbon footprint! To increase the durability of its tires and reduce their rolling resistance, the company uses lignin from pulp and paper mill waste. Silica, traditionally sourced from non-renewable sources, is now derived from rice husk ash. Even the carbon black used in production promises a lower environmental impact as it comes from the pyrolysis of recycled tires. Finally, Italian engineers have even managed to find another source for polymers: cooking oils!
Next time you buy Pirelli tires, whether on Blackcircles.ca or elsewhere, pay attention to these little details. Who knows, maybe you'll be even greener than you think?
