Ecodesign will transform the tire industry and its recycling with the entry into force of the regulation on Ecological product design Sustainable (ESPR).
A rule that came into force in July 2024 in the European Union and which took a crucial step towards a a more circular and sustainable economy.
This regulation introduces new requirements on products in key sectors, such as tires, in order to improve its sustainability, reduce its environmental impact and facilitate its recyclingeco-design is therefore an essential factor.
This change will have a significant impact on the management of End-of-Life Tires (NFU) and on the recycling industry of tires in Europe and Spain.
Eco-design of tires
The ESPR sets stricter standards that require products to be more durable, repairable and recyclable. Tires, as one of the priority products with textiles, steel and furnituremust comply with these new requirements, which will facilitate their recycling, reduce waste generation and increase the circularity of the sector.
One of the most innovative elements of this regulation is the implementation of Digital Product Passport (DPP).
Traceability, recycling and carbon footprint
This tool will allow product tracking from manufacturing to recyclingproviding key information via a QR code on its traceability, recycled content and carbon footprint.
In the case of tires, the DPP will facilitate the identification of those which may be recycle more efficientlyimproving the quality of recovered materials and their reuse in the manufacture of new tires.
Impact in Spain
In Spain, Royal Decree 1619/2005 already regulates the management of end-of-life tires. However, with the approval of Law 7/2022 and the implementation of ESPRa regulatory update is expected to align with new European requirements.
This will imply new responsibilities for manufacturers, who must guarantee a greater durability from the production phase until the end of the tire life cycle.
Ecodesign will significantly affect the tire recycling industryfacilitating more efficient recovery of its components. This will reduce dependence on virgin raw materials, improve the circularity of the sector and minimize its environmental impact.
Use and throw away
Tires designed according to the new guidelines They will be easier to recycleoptimizing the management of end-of-life tires (NFU).
Additionally, ESPR will promote more advanced recycling technologies, such as pyrolysis and rubber devulcanization, allowing for better recovery of essential materials.
With this approach, the EU seeks to abandon traditional linear model “use and dispose”, promoting a circular and more sustainable life cycle of products.
Non-profit corporation
TNU, Used Tire Processing, is a non-profit company created by Royal Decree 1619/2005. Legislation that regulates management and recycling of end-of-life tires.
This is a Collective System of Extended Producer Responsibility (SCRAP), which brings together the main used tire recycling companies, producers of new and retreaded tiresNFU management companies, tire importers and distributors, etc., and whose activity contributes to the recycling of the tons of end-of-life tires generated each year in Spain.
