Tire Industry Moves Toward Circular Economy

In late July 2026, representatives from the two largest global tire‑retreading markets convened at PneuShow in São Paulo. They discussed how low‑cost Asian imports were reshaping competition and prompting a strategic shift toward circular‑economy practices, such as extending tire life through retreading. Bridgestone used the forum to unveil Turanza EV, a premium electric‑vehicle tire made in Costa Rica with 50 % renewable and recycled content, highlighting the need for lower rolling resistance and quieter operation to meet EV performance demands.

By early August, the industry’s sustainability drive had broadened. Companies reported accelerating the replacement of petroleum‑derived inputs with renewable, bio‑based, and recycled materials—including natural rubber from Russian dandelion, soy‑based elastomers, rice‑husk‑derived silica, and recycled‑PET textiles. Circular‑economy measures also expanded to reuse steel and carbon black. Market analysts projected the global green‑tires market to grow to US$ 70.42 billion by 2033, driven by stricter CO₂ and tire‑labeling regulations in North America, Europe and Asia, as well as rising demand from automakers and fleet operators for low‑rolling‑resistance products.