Therefore, transitioning to a green economy has sound economic and social justification. For governments, this transition would involve levelling the playing field for greener products by replacing harmful subsidies, reforming policies and redirecting public investment among others. In the private sector, this transition would involve responding to these policy reforms and incentives through increased financing and investment, skill building and innovation capacities to realise the opportunities arising from a green economy.
Automobile industry is one of the key sectors for economic growth, where sustainability is critical to ensure access to clean and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Particularly for the rubber industry, which is largely perceived as non-environmentally friendly, it is imperative to work towards adapting the green economy; largely through development of green technology and introduction of green manufacturing practices including resource decoupling - using less land, water, energy and materials to maintain economic growth and to reduce environmental impact.
Technology innovation remains a key priority. Some of the trends for automotive and tyre industries include, sustainable tyre through introduction of green material technology with further improvement in fuel efficiency (Rolling Resistance) Safety (Dry and Wet Traction), Durability (mileage) and Comfort (Noise, Vibration, Ride & Handling). Besides above, obtaining rubber material from biomass and recyclable avenues, greater use of modelling in performance prediction and tyre design, change in tyre design to tall and thin tires, especially to suit electric vehicles are of paramount importance towards the making of a green economy. In addition, technologies that include real time simulation, virtual proving ground, self-inflation technology, electrified rubber, sensor-based tyres for health assessment and fleet management can help save fuel, reduce operating cost including increased tyre life.
Use of simulation and predictive technology - Finite Element Analysis (FEA), service life prediction, etc. – are expected to contribute towards determining the reliability aspect of tyres. With the advent of high-end software, FEA tools are now extensively used for prediction of structural durability, aquaplaning, heat generation, process simulation and Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH). Advanced research is underway to understand the microscopic behaviour of polymer-filler interaction using new generation simulation techniques. This in turn would help to develop ultra-high-performance tyres with reduced hysteresis, improved safety and durability.
In line with the automobile industry, tyre Industry is also looking into possibilities of implementing smart manufacturing practices, which include Big Data-driven quality control, robot assisted production, self-driving logistics vehicles, production line simulation, smart supply network, predictive maintenance, machine as a service, self-organising production, additive manufacturing of complex parts and augmented work among others.
As vehicles directly impact the environment (air quality, noise levels etc.,) and tyres are integral to its functioning, a collaborative effort is required to bring about a change of thinking and a change of culture on pursuing green economy in the rubber industry.
STA Joins Elite Top 1% With EcoVadis Platinum Sustainability Rating
- By TT News
- November 14, 2026
Sri Trang Agro-Industry Public Company Limited (STA) has secured Platinum recognition from EcoVadis, the highest distinction awarded by the sustainability ratings provider, placing the natural rubber leader among the top one percent of assessed companies globally. The accolade reflects STA's exceptional management standards and its dedication to pursuing business growth alongside environmental and social responsibility across its entire value chain.
The recognition was addressed by Chief Executive Officer Veerasith Sinchareonkul, who characterised Platinum as a significant milestone in STA's drive to embed sustainable practices throughout its operations. He noted that the company's efforts span continuous improvements in corporate governance, ethical conduct, environmental stewardship, respect for labour and human rights and responsible procurement and supply chain development, all aimed at creating shared value and fostering long-term stakeholder confidence.
EcoVadis, an internationally recognised provider of business sustainability assessments, evaluates management performance across four themes: Environment, Labour & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement. STA's top-tier result underscores its progress in integrating sustainability into operations and reinforces its role as a responsible business partner, while the company remains focused on raising operational standards, strengthening its value chain, supporting quality of life and safeguarding natural resources to build a foundation for lasting growth and a sustainable future for the natural rubber industry.
Pirelli Becomes Official Tyre Partner Of Netcompany INEOS In Three-Year Deal
- By TT News
- November 14, 2026
Pirelli has entered a three-year agreement with Netcompany INEOS, beginning in 2027, that will make the Milan-based manufacturer the Official Tyre Partner of one of professional cycling’s most prestigious teams. The partnership rests on a shared commitment to performance through innovation, technological progress and close attention to details capable of influencing final results.
Ahead of the collaboration, two Pirelli tyres underwent technical assessment. The PZERO RACE SL-R is a road tyre focused on aerodynamics and rolling efficiency, engineered to reduce aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance in fast racing and high-speed conditions. The PZERO RACE RS was developed to balance rolling efficiency, grip, protection and predictable cornering, giving riders confidence and stability across varied road surfaces, racing situations and weather.
The team’s bike, fitted with Pirelli tyres, is being displayed at the Pirelli stand during Rouleur Live in London from today until Saturday 14 November. The partnership will centre on developing and evaluating technical solutions suited to WorldTour cycling, where efficiency, reliability and performance must work together across conditions ranging from Grand Tours to the five Monuments.
Netcompany INEOS riders’ technical feedback will support product development and validation, with Pirelli technicians working alongside the team’s engineers and research and development management and integrating road data into outdoor testing protocols. The collaboration also reflects both organisations’ focus on marginal gains, with the tyre treated as a key part of the rider-and-bike system. Pirelli’s patented PAAS technologies are cited as helping address trade-offs such as rolling resistance versus grip. Pirelli tyres are due to race on the team’s Pinarello bikes at the Santos Tour Down Under from 16 January 2027.
Aldo Nicotera, Head of Moto & Cycling Business, Pirelli, said, “At the highest level of sport, success depends on a constant search for technological solutions that can deliver ever-greater performance. This is an approach we know well and one we are now bringing to our collaboration with Netcompany INEOS. We share the belief that optimising every detail can make a difference and contribute to outstanding results, together with an unwavering focus on innovation, quality and precision. We will have the opportunity to work alongside world-class technical staff and athletes, making the most of this exchange and gathering valuable insights to drive the ongoing development of increasingly advanced tyres that meet the needs of both professional riders and cycling enthusiasts.”
Geraint Thomas, Director of Racing, said, “Pirelli bring a huge amount of technical expertise and a real commitment to innovation, so it's exciting to have them working closely with our riders and performance team. It's not just about the equipment we race on, but how we can work together to keep developing. So, we're really looking forward to building that relationship and seeing what we can achieve together.”
Plaza Tire Service Expands Central Missouri Presence With St. Robert Location
- By TT News
- November 14, 2026
Plaza Tire Service, a prominent tyre and automotive service provider across the Midwest and a member of the Sun Auto Network, has expanded its footprint in central Missouri with a newly opened store in St. Robert. The location sits along the historic Route 66 corridor, offering local motorists a dependable option for tyres, preventive maintenance and vehicle repair.
The St. Robert facility stocks a broad selection of leading tyre brands and provides a comprehensive range of services, from oil changes and brake work to batteries, alignments, steering and suspension repair and other routine maintenance. Customers also benefit from the company's Price Match Guarantee and its signature 4 Tires in 1 Hour Guarantee, with same-day installation available on many purchases, allowing drivers to minimise downtime and get back on the road quickly.
Founded in Missouri in 1963, Plaza Tire Service has become one of the Midwest's largest tyre and automotive service providers, operating locations in Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Arkansas and Indiana. The company pairs its regional heritage with the resources and scale of the more than 600-location Sun Auto Network, reinforcing its presence in central Missouri through the new St. Robert store.
Rob Kingery, Regional Vice President, Sun Auto Tire & Service, said, "For more than 60 years, Plaza Tire Service has focused on making tyre and automotive care easy for our customers. We're proud to bring that commitment to St. Robert and support drivers with fast service, trusted expertise and a team dedicated to keeping vehicles road-ready."
TyreSafe And BLT Driver Training Join Forces To Boost Road Safety
- By TT News
- November 14, 2026
TyreSafe has entered an official partnership with BLT Driver Training, the driver training division of the Blue Lamp Trust. The UK charity, which works to raise awareness of tyre safety, said the collaboration reflects a joint commitment to road safety and to helping motorists make better-informed decisions. The tie-up connects BLT Driver Training's work with TyreSafe's broader mission and impact.
The new partner delivers professional driver education, training and assessments intended to raise driving standards and protect passengers, drivers and other road users. Its services span taxi and private hire training, fleet driver development, safeguarding and disability awareness courses and a Mature Drivers Confidence Builder Course. It works with licensing authorities, businesses, fleet operators and individual drivers; as a not-for-profit, it supports the Blue Lamp Trust's charitable work helping older and vulnerable people stay safe.
Collaboration will initially concentrate on three areas: taxi and private hire vehicles (PHVs), mature drivers and fleet safety. Drivers in the taxi and PHV sector cover high mileages on demanding schedules, and the partners will examine ways to embed TyreSafe's taxi-focused campaign materials into training and communications so that pressures, condition and tread depth receive greater attention. For mature motorists and their families, the organisations hope to develop accessible, practical resources that prompt regular tyre checks and informed choices supporting safe driving and independence. Fleet safety will be pursued through TyreSafe's November campaign, with both parties looking at how to share guidance on maintenance, inspection procedures and safety-conscious fleet management.
Bringing together BLT Driver Training's educational expertise and TyreSafe's specialist tyre knowledge, the partnership aims to put practical road safety advice within reach of more people and build safer habits across a range of road users. The two organisations believe the collaboration will help drivers and operators treat vehicle safety as a routine priority while supporting the Blue Lamp Trust's wider charitable mission.
Stuart Lovatt, Chairman, TyreSafe, said, “We warmly welcome BLT Driver Training as a TyreSafe partner. Improving road safety requires a joined-up approach, combining driver skills and awareness with the condition and maintenance of the vehicles they use every day. By working with an organisation that shares our commitment to practical education and safer journeys, we have a real opportunity to reach more drivers, support fleet operators and help people understand the simple checks that can make a difference. We’re particularly excited about exploring resources for mature drivers and their families, as well as working together to promote tyre safety among taxi and private hire drivers and across the wider fleet sector.”
Emma Burt, CEO, Blue Lamp Trust, said, “We’re delighted to be working with TyreSafe to help improve road safety and driving standards. At BLT Driver Training, we believe that effective education gives drivers the knowledge, skills and confidence to make safer decisions, and vehicle maintenance is an essential part of that picture. This partnership offers exciting opportunities to bring practical tyre safety advice into our training and communications, from supporting taxi and private hire drivers to helping mature motorists and their families have constructive conversations about vehicle safety and maintenance. We look forward to working with TyreSafe to develop useful resources and initiatives that help protect drivers, passengers and the wider community.”
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