USTMA Announces Webinar Series To Advance Circular Economy For ELTs

USTMA Announces Webinar Series To Advance Circular Economy For ELTs

The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) has announced a new webinar series designed to advance the circular economy for end-of-life tyres (ELTs) in collaboration with the Tire Recycling Foundation. Titled ‘The Road to 100% Tire Circularity: ELTs Going Full Circle’, the initiative aims to foster the development of scalable and profitable markets for recycled tyres. The series will launch in September 2025 and continue through February 2026.

Hosted by John Sheerin, USTMA’s Senior Director of ELT Programs, each session will convene industry experts, recyclers and state policymakers. Their discussions will focus on the latest research and real-world applications that transform waste tyres into valuable resources, thereby diverting them from landfills and generating environmental, industrial and economic benefits.

The programme will explore three of the most promising markets for end-of-life tyres. It begins on 23 September 2025 with a session on tyre-derived aggregate (TDA), examining its use in civil engineering projects like structural fill and stormwater management. A subsequent webinar on 30 October 2025 will cover the growing market for moulded and extruded products made from recycled rubber.

A significant portion of the series will be dedicated to rubber-modified asphalt (RMA), a material known for creating longer-lasting and more sustainable roadways. An introductory session on 20 November 2025 will review the overall performance and benefits of RMA. This will be followed by two regional deep dives: one on 14 January 2026, focusing on practical applications in Midwestern states like Michigan and Ohio, and another on 28 January 2026, exploring its adoption in Southern states including Kentucky and Georgia. The series will culminate on 24 February 2026 with a capstone session providing a comprehensive overview of grant and funding opportunities available to support the growth of these ELT markets.

This initiative addresses a critical need. While tyres are one of the most recycled products in US, and stockpiles have been reduced by 94 percent over the past three decades, the generation of end-of-life tyres continues to outpace their consumption in recycling markets. The webinar series is presented as a strategic pathway to bridge this gap by promoting innovative and sustainable end-use applications.

Those interested in shaping the future of tyre management are encouraged to register for any or all of the webinars through the USTMA website. Attendees will receive a resource kit after each session to help facilitate further discussion and action.

Anne Forristall Luke, President & CEO, USTMA, said, “We view these webinars as a crucial opportunity to connect key leaders across the country and show them that sustainability and economic growth go hand-in-hand. By showcasing proven applications and providing the tools to act, we can collectively turn ELTs from a waste challenge into an economic engine.”

Sheerin said, “As we look to expand ELT markets and unlock the full environmental and economic potential of end-of-life tyres, collaboration is essential. And no one can do it alone. State DOTs, regulators, recyclers and manufacturers must work together to help grow ELT markets through targeted investment, supportive policy and continued research.”

ANRPC Hosts Representatives From NOMURA JIMUSHO

The Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC) hosted representatives from NOMURA JIMUSHO, INC. at its Kuala Lumpur Secretariat on 12 February 2026. The visit facilitated strategic discussions between ANRPC Secretary-General Dr Suttipong Angthong, his team and the firm’s Yoshiyuki Hosaka and Taichi Nomura.

Deliberations focused on ANRPC’s core strategic objectives, which include boosting productivity and lowering production costs. Other key areas of discussion involved strengthening downstream value addition, creating diversified income sources and tapping into the environmental value of natural rubber. Central to the dialogue was the overarching goal of improving livelihoods for smallholder farmers.

The exchange highlighted a mutual commitment to advancing sustainable growth and circular economy models within the sector. The meeting underscored the critical role of enhanced partnerships in navigating current industry challenges and capitalising on emerging global opportunities.

The collaborative spirit of the visit reinforced a shared dedication to fostering a more sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious future for the natural rubber industry.

Trelleborg To Launch 5,000-Hour Tyre Performance Guarantee At Commodity Classic

Trelleborg To Launch 5,000-Hour Tyre Performance Guarantee At Commodity Classic

Trelleborg Tires is set to introduce a significant performance assurance programme at the upcoming Commodity Classic in San Antonio, scheduled from 25 to 27 February. This new initiative guarantees up to 5,000 hours of certified tread wear for several of its key rear tyre ranges, including the TM1060, TM1000, TM900 and TM800 ProgressiveTraction models. The offer underscores the company’s dedication to providing durable solutions that deliver tangible value, enabling farmers to extend equipment operation, minimise downtime and safeguard their investments under rigorous field conditions.

Access to this guarantee is provided exclusively through the Trelleborg Premium Care Portal. This platform not only facilitates secure registration but also connects customers with expert support and personalised advice aimed at optimizing tyre longevity and performance.

Attendees at Booth #1171 will have the opportunity to explore the company’s latest advancements in agricultural tyres, particularly for high-horsepower tractors. Featured exhibits will include the TM1000 ProgressiveTraction in size VF800/70R38, the TM900 ProgressiveTraction in 710/70R42 and the TM800 PowerFlex in VF650/65R38, which showcases a newly engineered tread pattern for improved roadability and field performance. Additionally, the TM200 ProgressiveTraction for vineyard and orchard applications will be on display in size VF440/65R24.

Each of these products integrates Trelleborg’s patented ProgressiveTraction technology, characterised by a distinctive double-edge lug design. This innovation enhances traction, stability and self-cleaning capabilities, effectively reducing slippage and vibration while boosting fuel efficiency and prolonging tread life. Visitors can also learn about Pressure Field Operation (PFO) technology, which allows tyres to perform optimally at lower inflation pressures in specific conditions without sacrificing load capacity. Through these farmer-centric innovations, Trelleborg continues to reinforce its leadership in the agricultural sector by helping producers achieve greater productivity and operational efficiency over the long term.

Tom Rodgers, Commercial Director, Trelleborg Tires, said, “We know that tyre replacement represents a significant operational cost for farmers. With this 5,000-hour performance guarantee, we stand firmly behind our ProgressiveTraction technology and offer a clear commitment to long-term performance.”

Andrea Masella, Marketing Director Agriculture North America, said, “With every innovation, we design our tyres from the soil up to perform where it matters most — in our customers’ fields. By combining advanced engineering with a 5,000-hour certified performance commitment, we provide farmers with solutions that maximise productivity, protect their investment and support long-term operational success.”

Magna Tyres Launches LH32 Tyre Engineered For Trailer Applications

Magna Tyres Launches LH32 Tyre Engineered For Trailer Applications

Magna Tyres has expanded its portfolio with the launch of the LH32, a new tyre engineered specifically for trailer use in long-haul and regional transport operations. Designed to address the rigorous demands of modern logistics, the tyre delivers a balanced combination of durability, consistent performance and safety across diverse road conditions. Its advanced tread pattern is optimised to provide reliable traction and even mileage on both highways and regional routes, supporting safe and efficient travel regardless of the terrain.

The LH32 features a robust radial casing constructed with a specially formulated compound, which enhances load-bearing capacity and contributes to improved fuel efficiency. This structural integrity not only promotes longer tyre life but also boosts driver confidence through stable handling. Importantly, the tyre holds full ECE approval, confirming its compliance with strict European safety and performance standards. By integrating these technical attributes, the LH32 enables transport companies to elevate operational efficiency while maintaining high safety benchmarks, making it a practical solution for fleets aiming to optimise performance without compromise.

Key specifications of the Magna LH32

Application: Trailer
Segment: Long haul / Regional
Size: 385/65R22.5
PR: 24
Load/Speed Index: 164K
Fuel Efficiency Class: B
Wet Grip Class: B
Markings: 3PMSF & M+S
Noise Level: 73 dB, Class B

GRI Tires Hosts Italian National Distributor Magri Gomme For In-Depth Production Tour

GRI Tires Hosts Italian National Distributor Magri Gomme For In-Depth Production Tour

GRI Tires, a leading producer of speciality tyres from Sri Lanka, recently hosted its Italian national distributor, Magri Gomme, at its production plant to showcase the advanced technology and meticulous processes involved in manufacturing its agricultural tyres. The meeting served to deepen their collaborative relationship, providing a platform for constructive discussions about evolving market dynamics, customer requirements and the trajectory of the agricultural tyre sector in Italy.

A comprehensive tour of the facility allowed the Magri Gomme team to observe firsthand the operational scale and exacting standards that characterise GRI’s production methods. The visit demonstrated a comprehensive dedication to quality, tracing the journey from initial raw materials to the final product. It offered a clear view of the rigorous quality assurance protocols, precise process management and ongoing refinement efforts integrated into every manufacturing stage.

Beyond simply observing the production line, the engagement reinforced a unified long-term strategy. Rooted in mutual confidence and open communication, both companies reaffirmed their dedication to supplying Italian agriculture with durable, high-performing tyre solutions that meet the demands of farmers and contractors.