Last month, renowned Korean tire manufacturer Hankook took a major step towards sustainability by launching mass production of tires made from ISCC PLUS certified carbon black, derived from the pyrolysis oil of end-of-life tires. This milestone marks the first major achievement of the Tire-to-Tire Circular Economy Model consortium, founded by the company in November 2023. By using these sustainable materials, Hankook Tire is not only advancing its commitment to reducing carbon emissions, but also taking a proactive role in revolutionizing the tire industry's approach to circular economy practices.
A collaborative effort
It has to be said that Hankook is not alone. Its new initiative involves the use of three types of carbon black developed through a collaborative effort with HD Hyundai Oilbank and HD Hyundai OCI. This carbon black is created from refined oil derived from the pyrolysis of end-of-life tires, a way of recycling a highly polluting material. The carbon black is certified ISCC PLUS, a global sustainability standard, confirming its role in circular economy practices. The incorporation of this sustainable material into the mass production process thus marks a significant step forward in the tire industry's transition to sustainable production.
A visionary effort
By replacing petrochemical raw materials with sustainable materials, Hankook aims to reduce dependence on oil resources and help cut carbon emissions. This change not only preserves natural resources, but also aligns with global sustainability goals. The company plans to continue using 100% pyrolytic oil in the production of certified carbon black, with the aim of achieving its goal of using fully sustainable materials by 2050.
But the company's commitment to sustainability extends beyond raw materials. In 2021, the Geumsan plant in Korea became the first in the industry to receive ISCC PLUS certification, followed by its plant in Hungary in 2023. These numerous certifications are proof of Hankook's ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable materials at all levels of the company. Last year, the company even set medium- and long-term greenhouse gas reduction targets, and was awarded the FIA's prestigious three-star environmental accreditation this year! We can only hope that all these efforts will bear fruit...
