Rubber certainly has its role to play in forest landscapes across the world, with natural rubber plantations having risen as a substantial basis of deforestation. One element that addresses deforestation concerns is the correct certification of rubber – be it natural or synthetic. International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC), a globally leading certification system, works with the objective of providing sustainability solutions for fully traceable and deforestation-free supply chains, inter alia involving the rubber industry. ISCC was one of the presenters at the Tire Technology Expo 2022 at Hannover, Germany, and Dr Jan M Henke, Director, ISCC, threw light on the nitty-gritty of certifications in the rubber industry, their clients in the tyre and rubber industry and more, in an interaction with Tyre Trends.

Can you tell us about your global sustainability scheme?
Our global sustainability and carbon certification scheme has certified companies in more than 100 countries. We certify entire supply chains from farms to plantations and forestry, and also the point of origin of waste and residues, biogenic and fossil waste. This is also covering rubber and natural rubber. Moreover, we cover biogenic waste and residues, including fossil waste, like carbon black, which is, again, used in the rubber industry. We also certify pyrolysis, where recycled mixed plastic waste can help produce synthetic rubber out of the pyrolysis oil. And we certify the entire supply chain, sustainability of raw material.

What is Meo’s role?
Meo initiated ISCC in a multi-stakeholder process a long time ago. It once was a Meo project and went on to become an operations and certification scheme. It was even recognised by the European Commission and some other authorities. It later got segregated from Meo, and ISCC is governed by the ISCC Association with more than 200 members.

So, what role does Meo play in this in case of certification?
Certification is always by independent, third-party certification bodies. ISCC is the standard development. Today’s ISCC was once a project of Meo. It then went on to become independent and operational, and was no longer a project but an individual entity running and further developing and improving the certification scheme.

The operations of the certification system, database, registration, qualification, training programme, integrity programme, the website and all the day-to-day business is done by ISCC. We are currently incorporating 45 certification bodies that are actually doing the on-site audits based on the ISCC standard.

Is ISCC recognised by the European Union?
Yes, it is being used in many sectors, like in bio energy, bio fuel, renewable transport fuels etc. In fact, ISCC is also recognised by the European Commission and by companies based on their sustainability standards and different industry initiatives.

Hence, ISCC is active on a really broad scale, covering different types of raw materials, natural rubber being one of them. We are also covering waste and residues for pyrolysis and their outputs. We then go to all the different end markets, which can be polymers, rubber, tyres, packaging, all types of plastic products, bio energy or any type of renewable fuels, aviation fuels, maritime fuels etc. This is global and is being used in more than 100 countries.

Tyre companies are talking about sustainability, but the larger part of the industry is of small stakeholders, especially in the natural rubber segment, where traceability and accountability are the main issues. How do you see this?
That’s a big challenge, especially in rubber production. At the cultivation level, there are a lot of small holders. There also exist large plantations that are easier to implement and certify. However, it’s definitely a bigger challenge with the small holders; it always depends on how well they are organised, whether there are certain structures, cooperatives or some central units.

Can you tell us about the certification of natural rubber?
The certification of natural rubber is definitely possible. Palm oil is maybe another example where the setup is quite similar sometimes. Also, with respect to the small holders, sometimes the companies are the same. Furthermore, we are very active in the palm oil sector with ISCC. We now also see a demand for natural rubber sustainability certification.

Is there a different process for getting certified in the rubber industry or is it a standard process?
It’s a standard process. It works on plantation. In fact, it works more or less the same as for palm plantations. But you certainly need to make sure that all the small holders reach a certain level, which is difficult. So starting out, bigger plantations may be easier because it’s easier for them to properly prepare for the certification audits. And then, you need to involve more farmers, step by step.

Who decides the standard process to get the certifications?
ISCC develops the standards and the requirements in the multi-stakeholder process. It then comes down to a company saying that it wants to become certified, use ISCC and also make certain claims and communications to its customers and stakeholders. They then reach out to a certification body, that is cooperating with ISCC. Following this, the certification body will do the audit on site – the third-party auditor will also make a decision on the issuance of the certificate.

Can tyre manufacturers get different certifications? For instance, one for natural rubber and another one for synthetic rubber? Or do they get one for all?
If tyre manufacturers source raw material for manufacturing from natural rubber but also synthetic rubber and everything under ISCC, then it’s one audit. Then the auditor would look into aspects of the volume of natural rubber being used that has been certified, although upstream. If one buys from certified suppliers and if the same auditors check, then aspects like the share of the certified synthetic rubber being used, the share of carbon black, etc. are taken into account. And finally, everything can be put together and a certain claim can be made.

Can tyre companies get a separate certificate for natural rubber?
Yes, they can. They can have separate certificates for natural and synthetic rubber both, or even of everything together. As for the final tyre, let’s say, if it’s 20 percent natural rubber and 20 percent synthetic rubber (40 percent of the tyre), then they can make certain sustainability claims on use of sustainable, circular materials etc.

What is the value of a certification?
It’s no deforestation – that’s key when it comes to natural rubber. When you certify, ‘no deforestation’ is the core requirement and deforestation is not allowed under ISCC. It is about additional environmental and social human rights criteria. This fits fine in this part of ISCC’s sustainability standard. And then it’s certainly about traceability in the supply chain, all the way in the end to the final tyre. And if this is established, then you can certainly make claims about the rubber or the final tyre, saying that it has been sustainably produced, based on sustainably sourced raw materials etc.

Plus, if you do this in a smart way, then you can actually cover the natural and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber and synthetic rubber are both very important parts of the final tyre. Both can be covered under ISCC.

Deforestation is a big issue, mainly in Southeast Asian and African countries. How difficult is it to keep an eye on that?
It’s not always easy to handle. Deforestation is not allowed under ISCC; there is a cut-off date of January 2008. If there was deforestation after January 2008, one cannot become certified. However, replanting or a change from palm to rubber is not considered as deforestation.

For example, if you have a palm plantation and if you cut it and plant rubber after 25 years, then that’s not deforestation. That’s just normal replanting.

Also, ISCC is certainly doing assessments, supported by remote sensing. Our core principle is no deforestation, which is very important to ISCC and its stakeholders. ISCC is not just us doing the operations in Cologne; there’s the ISCC Association for the multi-stakeholder dialogue. It has over 200 members from entire supply chains, industries, plantation companies, mineral oil, chemical companies, converters etc. We also have research organisations from different regions involved. In fact, also a number of non-governmental organisations are members of the ISCC Association.

The association meets annually and makes important strategic decisions and elects the ISCC Board. Due to the representation of the research sector and non-governmental organisations, there is quite a good balance of what people want and further development.

Can you tell us about the commercial benefits involved in having a certification?
There is a big value in it. It reduces sustainability risks for companies, helps to establish monitoring, protects the license to operate and has commercial value. For example, the OEMs ask for more sustainable products or lower greenhouse gas emissions. They all have climate neutrality commitments in place and need to start delivering step-by-step now; they need to show what are the activities that they are engaged in and how those improve sustainability in the overall supply chain. Here, ISCC certification can be used.

How do you maintain transparency in certification as a third party?
There is an annual audit. The certificate is valid for one year and then there is a re-certification. The company needs to provide evidence in every re-certification that the rules are being followed. And if they are not, a renewal of the certificates is not possible.

We certainly have quality management and training for companies and the auditors as well, who conduct on-site audits. What’s more, we have our own integrity programmes, where we send out our own auditors. These auditors work for ISCC and double-check the performance of the companies and the work of third-party auditors. Therefore, this integrity programme is key. We have the website where all the certificates are being published and the entire standard is public.

Do you help companies improve their sustainability supply chain?
No, we don’t consult. At ISCC, we are not involved in supporting the companies in order to improve. We have the standard and we conduct the training for companies. The preparation for the audit is not where ISCC is involved; it’s independent from that type of work. And the certification bodies are not allowed to consult in parallel either. ISCC is the independent standard that is used to certify that companies fulfil the sustainability requirements.

What are the other segments that you cover in the tyre industry?
It’s the entire supply chain. Petrochemical industries, tyre manufacturers etc. can all be covered. This also includes everything from plantations to the end product in the tyre industry.

Which is the easiest and the toughest one to certify?
All elements of the supply chain need to be covered.

This can sometimes be a challenge in the beginning, so as to convince your suppliers and also get certified. But, in truth, we have more than 6,000 certificates under ISCC. So there are already a lot of players that have valid certificates, and now this is starting to move into the space of rubber and tyre manufacturers.

Can you tell us about your clients in the rubber and tyre industry?
We have requests from many tyre producers right now. Some producers are certified already. Plus, we have requests for carbon black and first requests for natural rubber. We see the number of requests increasing, and we do have first certificates and first registrations from tyre producers. So we expect this to rise further as the industry needs to show compliance with their sustainability and climate neutrality commitments.

We see the entire tyre industry now targeting sustainability. So how do you find more opportunities and what’s your plan to get more client support?
ISCC started to get really further engaged in the rubber and tyre industry about a year ago; the industry has started understanding the standards, participating in ISCC trainings, joining our stakeholder events etc. Therefore, step by step, they got to know ISCC better and what it could do for them. They have now even started to get involved and do certifications, including reaching out all the way to the cultivation of natural rubber.

Are you going to focus on the Asian market?
Yes. In fact, we already have a few hundred certificates in Malaysia, Indonesia and other countries in the region. These markets are truly important. Our other key markets are North America and Europe, while we are also active in Africa and South America.

We are, eventually, trying to do more and convince people to become certified, show compliance to sustainability requirements, engage in a continuous improvement approach to become more sustainable and then allow manufacturers to really make claims.  

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The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.'s global flagship ADVAN tyres are prominently featured in the latest high-octane instalment of the Gymkhana film series, ‘Gymkhana: Aussie Shred’. Released by Hoonigan Media Machine, the video rapidly surpassed 5.3 million views within its first week. This marks the third consecutive film in the popular stunt-driving series to showcase Yokohama’s tyre technology, following previous episodes released in 2020 and 2022 which have collectively amassed tens of millions of views online.

The film stars action sports icon and Yokohama brand ambassador Travis Pastrana, who performs a series of extreme manoeuvres across Australian terrain. His vehicle is a custom-built, 670-horsepower Subaru ‘Brataroo’, a modern re-engineering of a classic 1978 model specifically designed for Gymkhana stunts. Pastrana’s daring feats include high-speed drifts and a breathtaking 50-metre canyon jump, all captured in the new production.

Supporting these demanding performances, the Brataroo is equipped with Yokohama’s 18-inch ADVAN A052 street sports tyres and ADVAN APEX V601 high-performance tyres. Engineered to deliver an optimal blend of grip and structural integrity, these tyres provided critical stability across varied and punishing surfaces, from race circuits to loose gravel. This technological partnership enabled Pastrana to successfully execute the film's next-level stunts, demonstrating the ADVAN line's capabilities under extreme driving conditions and reinforcing Yokohama’s association with premier motorsport entertainment.

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American electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian has selected the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV as the recommended winter tyre for its R1T and R1S models in North America. This partnership marks a first for Nokian Tyres in the region, where the Finnish company markets a full range of all-season, all-weather and winter product. The non-studded tyre is now available for direct purchase through Rivian Gear Shop and can be installed at the brand’s service centres.

Designed specifically for large, powerful vehicles, this latest-generation tyre addresses the particular demands of electric vehicles, including increased weight and instant torque. It incorporates features such as Aramid-reinforced sidewalls for added durability and puncture resistance, alongside a low-rolling-resistance compound to help preserve driving range. The tread utilises Arctic Grip Crystals to enhance grip on ice, and the Green Trace compound integrates recycled and renewable materials.

The Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV carries important safety and suitability certifications. It bears the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol and the Ice Grip Symbol, confirming its performance in severe winter conditions. Furthermore, it has received Nokian’s Electric Fit designation, indicating it was specially developed and tested for electric vehicles. Together, these elements provide Rivian owners with a winter tyre option engineered for optimised stability, load management and overall safety in cold weather.

Tyler Scott, Nokian Tyres Key Accounts Manager, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Rivian to offer our flagship non-studded winter tyre to drivers who demand the very best from their vehicles. Our groundbreaking tyre technology, rooted in our 90-year tradition of safety, will help Rivian drivers follow through on the company’s quest to Keep the World Adventurous, even in the toughest winter conditions."   

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The Maruti Suzuki Victoris was crowned Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2026 and the TVS Apache RTX 300 secured the Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) 2026 title. These prestigious honours were presented by Dr Raghupati Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director of JK Tyre & Industries, alongside the awards' chairmen, Pablo Chaterji of ICOTY and Kartik Ware of IMOTY, during a prominent ceremony in New Delhi. The event, a key date in the industry calendar, gathered leading automotive figures to celebrate these achievements.

Now in their 21st and 19th iterations, respectively, the JK Tyre-sponsored ICOTY and IMOTY awards remain the most credible benchmarks for automotive excellence in India. The ceremony also recognised vehicles in specialised categories, reflecting evolving market trends. The Volkswagen Golf GTI received the Premium Car Award 2026, while the Mahindra XEV 9e was honoured with the Green Car Award 2026 for its contributions to electric mobility.

These outcomes are determined by a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a 27-member jury of senior automotive journalists, whose collective experience spans over three centuries. Modelling global award standards, the jury assesses every shortlisted vehicle across a comprehensive set of criteria. This includes design, safety, performance, technology, value and suitability for Indian driving conditions. This meticulous and transparent methodology sustains the awards' authority and ensures they consistently celebrate the vehicles that truly advance the nation’s automotive landscape.

Dr Raghupati Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Limited, said, “The evolution of India’s automotive industry is gaining remarkable transition, as the focus shifts towards sustainable technologies, intelligent mobility and stronger engineering capabilities. ICOTY and IMOTY recognises the machines that carry this vision into reality. JK Tyre is honoured to stand with a platform that rewards forward-looking innovation. What we have seen this year signals an industry preparing thoughtfully and confidently for the mobility of tomorrow.”

Pablo Chaterji, Chairman, ICOTY, said, “There are many automotive awards in the country, and each has its undoubted merits. Ever since the ICOTY award was instituted, however, it has taken its place at the top of the podium, in no small part due to the support of JK Tyre. This is because the jury consists of the finest automotive journalists in the country, with a combined reviewing track record of over 300 years. The award process is thoroughly vetted by our knowledge partner, Deloitte, and is thus scrupulously fair and transparent. Every OEM is also clear that this award – and its associated awards, IMOTY, Premium Car and Green Car – is the one that matters most, and I think it would not be out of place to say that cars in India have become better in part because OEMs want to win ICOTY, and make every effort to manufacture vehicles that are worthy of that title.”

Kartik Ware, Chairman, IMOTY, said, “IMOTY 2026 has been as diverse and accomplished as possible, with a number of firsts, including the first-ever electric motorcycle in the finalists. To celebrate the best motorcycle from among a lineup of such fantastic machines is not an easy task, but the IMOTY jury is equal to it – a big thank you to each and every one of them, old and new. Of course, due credit must also be given to our partner in this spectacular journey, JK Tyre, for its constant and unwavering support. All of these attributes make IMOTY the 17-year-old institution it has become, and the most cherished two-wheeler award in India. Here's to many more!”

Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “We are honoured to receive the ‘Indian Car of the Year 2026’ award for VICTORIS. This SUV was designed to provide all possible features to today’s new-age customers. It brings together style, technology, safety and a host of smart innovations. With the strong customer pull and now the coveted ICOTY award, VICTORIS lives up to its promise of ‘Got It All’. We are grateful to the ICOTY jury for this prestigious recognition.”

Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “Being recognised with the JK Tyre’s Indian Motorcycle of the Year award 2026 (IMOTY). This honour reflects a performance legacy shaped by over 40 years of racing excellence and 35 years of rally experience, where every insight has been earned through real-world competition. As TVS Apache completes 20 years as a symbol of racing DNA, innovation and rider trust, the TVS Apache RTX represents our bold vision for the future creating and leading the Rally Touring Extreme segment. Designed, engineered and made in India for the world, TVS Apache RTX reinforces our belief that world-class motorcycles can originate in India and compete with the very best globally.”

Nitin Kohli, Brand Director, Volkswagen India, said, “Winning the Premium Car of the Year award for the Golf GTI is truly special. The GTI is an icon with a 50-year legacy, and seeing it resonate so strongly with Indian enthusiasts has been incredibly rewarding. What began as a limited allocation quickly turned into overwhelming demand, reaffirming that the Golf GTI is more than just a car; it’s a collector’s item and a symbol of pure driving passion. We thank the ICOTY jury for this recognition and our customers for believing in the GTI and its enduring legacy.”

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO – Automotive Business, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. & Executive Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd., said, “We would like to thank the esteemed ICOTY 2026 jury for honouring the Mahindra XEV 9e with the Green Car of the Year award. This award validates the global benchmarks of design, engineering and manufacturing excellence that underpin Mahindra’s Electric Origin vision. More importantly, it reinforces the XEV 9e’s role in truly Unlimiting the electric vehicle adoption in India and by expanding what customers can expect from an EV in everyday life. We are deeply grateful to our customers for their trust and belief; your confidence continues to inspire us to deliver electric mobility that is aspirational, capable and uncompromising.”

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Titan International Inc. is embarking on an official partnership with NASCAR competitor Ross Chastain, who is also an eighth-generation watermelon farmer. This alliance extends far beyond traditional sponsorship, focusing instead on direct agricultural support. Titan is integrating its expertise into the daily operations of the Chastain family farm, where company specialists are collaborating alongside Melon 1 to address the distinct challenges of watermelon cultivation.

The farm’s diverse fleet, which includes everything from primary tractors to specialised sprayers and utility vehicles, requires a wide array of tyre specifications. Titan is supplying a comprehensive portfolio of products and tailored support for this entire equipment lineup, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and minimise potential downtime.

Chastain’s national profile uniquely bridges the worlds of high-speed racing and foundational farming. Leveraging his platform as NASCAR’s prominent ‘agriculture guy’, this partnership is designed to generate meaningful awareness for the broader farming community. The initiative underscores a shared mission to recognise the critical innovations and relentless effort of agricultural professionals who support global supply chains. Ultimately, it represents a functional fusion of motorsport visibility and tangible, on-farm problem-solving.

Chastain said, “I grew up farming watermelons with my family, and that will always be a part of who I am. What excites me about working with Titan is that they’re actually on the farm, looking at our equipment and helping us find real solutions. I trust Goodyear tyres on the track, and now I trust Titan and Goodyear Farm Tires on our farm. That’s what 'Ag to Asphalt' means to me.”

Scott Sloan, Global Ag/LSW Product Manager, Titan, said, “Watermelon farming has unique demands across a wide range of equipment. Our goal is to make each machine perform at its best. If Ross trusts Titan on his farm, that tells other farmers they can trust us too.”

Kim Boccardi, VP – Marketing, Titan, said, “For Titan, this partnership represents exactly what we stand for. We’re here to listen, to learn and to provide the service, support and expertise farmers want and need. Ross and his family welcomed us onto their farm, and together we’re showing the industry that if a machine needs tyres, whether it's tractors, trailers, ATVs or UTVs, we’ve got it handled.”

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