The European Rubber Jounal reports that tire recyclers in Europe are calling on EU policymakers to introduce ecodesign requirements that improve tire recyclability, support demand for recycled rubber and increase transparency across the value chain.

The proposals were outlined by Recycling Europe Tyres in a position paper published on May 18, as the EU prepares future product rules under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.

The association said targeted action is needed to improve circularity in the tire sector, noting that around 50% of end-of-life tires are currently sent for recycling in the EU.

Three priorities for tire ecodesign

Recycling Europe Tyres said the ecodesign framework should support tire circularity through three main measures: improving recyclability through tire design, introducing recycled content targets and creating a transparent and practical Digital Product Passport.

On product design, the group said future requirements should ensure that tire materials do not prevent or significantly hinder material recovery.

The association identified self-sealing compounds, noise-reduction foams, aramid fibers and silica as materials that may affect tire recycling and rubber recycling processes.

Self-sealing tires and foams may affect granulation

According to Recycling Europe Tyres, self-sealing tires and noise-reduction foams can disrupt tire granulation by adding extra compounds to a waste stream that is otherwise relatively uniform.

The group said sealants used in self-sealing tires can coat granulation equipment blades, potentially increasing fire risks and creating safety hazards for equipment and workers.

Although these tire technologies currently represent a minority of the market, the association said wider adoption could lead to more end-of-life tires being diverted to incineration rather than material recycling.

Reinforcement materials also under discussion

Recycling Europe Tyres also highlighted aramid fibers used in high-performance tires. The association said these fibers can improve durability and service life but may make tires more difficult to shred and granulate.

The group said such materials can reduce processing efficiency and should be considered as part of future ecodesign discussions on recyclability.

Silica was also listed among the materials of concern, reflecting wider debate over how tire formulations and reinforcement systems influence downstream recycling and material recovery.

Recycled rubber demand remains central

The association said improved tire design should be combined with measures that strengthen demand for recycled rubber and other materials recovered from end-of-life tires.

Potential applications for recycled tire materials include crumb rubber products, rubberized asphalt and other circular economy markets where recovered rubber can replace virgin materials.

The position paper adds to ongoing discussions in Europe over how future tire ecodesign rules should balance safety, performance, innovation, sustainability and end-of-life recycling outcomes.

To read more about the topic, please proceed to The European Rubber Jounal.