The WRS 2021, organised by IRSG (International Rubber Study Group) together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Government of Côte d’Ivoire and co-hosted by the Association des Professionales du Caoutchou Naturelle de Côte d’Ivoire (APROMAC) the Fonds Interprofessionnel pour la Recherche et le Conseil Agricoles (FIRCA), was a prime opportunity for leaders, experts, government representatives and NGOs to discuss the current status of the rubber industry and explore the way forward to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth. This year’s WRS featured the very timely theme, ‘Facing the Future: Inclusiveness, Sustainability and Growth for the Next Normal’.
The WRS 2021 was officially opened by HE M. Jerome Patrick Achi, Prime Minister, Government of Côte d’Ivoire, in recognition of the important role that Africa can play as an emerging producer of natural rubber. The event has highlighted that the rubber economy could be a formidable engine for the continent, creating jobs and transforming its economic and social prospects, and providing opportunities for the youth and women – real key drivers of sustainable growth, development and peace.
The WRS 2021 witnessed 29 eminent speakers from all parts of the world, about 200 participants directly linked to the virtual platform and significant public participation in Côte d’Ivoire, where stakeholders in the rubber sector interacted in person during the event.
Innovative ideas and approaches emerged during the summit to address the new challenges that can change the global pattern of production and consumption in the rubber sector, market and policy discussions on new approaches in business and life to turn the crisis into an opportunity from the lessons learnt. Discussions around the decarbonisation commitment of governments justifying sustainable and secure supply chains for raw materials were focussed on supply chain collaboration, ensuring that raw material efficiency, performance and traceability are dealt with holistically.
An important debate took place on the impact of climate change on natural rubber systems, which has potential economic, environmental and social risks, identifying a set of policy recommendations that could facilitate the work of all stakeholders in the rubber value chain.
The latest IPCC report , published in August 2021, has highlighted that human activity is changing the climate in an unprecedented and sometimes irreversible way. Actions on the adaptation of natural rubber systems to climate changes are urgently needed and further investigations into the potential contribution of rubber to climate change mitigation.
Work-based on scientific knowledge is the precondition to identifying correct pathways to preserve and support the growth and prosperity of the natural rubber economy worldwide. In this field, IRSG has had a leading role thanks to the support of important R&D organisations such as CIFOR/FTA, IRRDB and CIRAD.
In his closing remarks, Salvatore Pinizzotto, Secretary-General IRSG, has pointed out that the main common point that emerged during the World Rubber Summit is the need to formulate policies and put into place people-centred actions. “If we look at the natural rubber sector alone, it sustains 40 million people with their families around the globe with a supply chain generating more than USD 300 billion. Furthermore, about 90 percent of the total world natural rubber production is sourced by smallholders.
“To build an inclusive and sustainable rubber community, we need to work at local, national and international level – there is not a ‘one-size-fits-all solution – putting in place innovative forms of cooperation across national borders and a variety of actors – governments, business, academia and civil society. Reduce poverty-establishing mechanisms that could provide smallholders with an adequate income level, implement an effective technology transfer on the field and support education and training among farmers, especially young people and women. These are some of the policies needed to implement sustainability. Leveraging digital technology in farming and green finance options encouraging climate change adaptation are other key policies to assure emission reduction and social inclusion."
In closing the World Rubber Summit 2021, the Honourable KobenanKouassiAdjourmani, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Government of Côte d’Ivoire, has strongly stated that Africa is completely committed to implementing sustainability practices in the rubber sector, making sure that all the rubber value chain is equitable, profitable and transparent.
"Sustainability and circular economy are two aspects that we need to keep high on the agenda of all stakeholders in the rubber economy. We need to make sure that both natural and synthetic rubber sectors comply with the adopted 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development." (TT)
Pirelli Celebrates Home Italian Grand Prix With Artistic Trophy And Strategic Tyre Challenges At Monza
- By TT News
- September 01, 2026
Pirelli prepares to take centre stage at its home race, the Formula 1 Pirelli Gran Premio d’Italia 2026, which marks the 77th edition of the historic event. The upcoming weekend at the Monza circuit is highly anticipated, driven by the fervent passion of the Italian tifosi and the venue’s deep-rooted legacy within motorsport. As the title sponsor, the Italian tyre manufacturer is set to celebrate its longstanding relationship with the Temple of Speed through a series of artistic and ceremonial initiatives.
The company’s bond with Monza transcends mere geographical proximity between its headquarters and the autodrome, being historically cemented by numerous victories on Pirelli rubber. A landmark triumph occurred on the circuit’s opening day in September 1922, when Pietro Bordino won the Grand Prix driving a Fiat 804. This year’s race will be commemorated with a unique trophy designed by the Italian artistic duo vedovamazzei, which will be presented to the top three finishers on Sunday, alongside special edition podium caps.
The trophy, named FRAGILE, is conceived as a layered composition of everyday household objects such as cups and bowls, stacked into a visually unsteady vertical form. The artists, Stella Scala and Simeone Crispino, drew inspiration from the ancient tradition of passing a communal drinking vessel to foster a sense of shared festivity. Their creation symbolises a victory that is held by an individual yet reflects the spirit of the broader community, including the team and fans, while also acknowledging the ephemeral nature of success.
The artistic process involved a blend of traditional sketching and advanced three-dimensional printing using nylon powder, which was subsequently painted and polished to a reflective finish. This commission is part of an ongoing annual project by Pirelli in collaboration with the Pirelli HangarBicocca Museum, now in its sixth edition. Previous artists who have contributed to this project include Alice Ronchi, Patrick Tuttofuoco, Ruth Beraha, Andrea Sala and Nico Vascellari.
Complementing the trophy, Pirelli Design has produced a special podium cap for the Monza weekend, featuring the iconic Azzurro blue of Italian sport. The cap, designed by Denis Dekovic, is adorned with gold embroidery and laurel wreaths, with the word Monza on the visor and an Italia 2026 emblem on the side. This exclusive merchandise is available for purchase online, adding a commemorative element for fans.
From a sporting perspective, the three softest tyre compounds will be available, with strategic simulations suggesting that a one-stop race is probable despite the availability of overtaking opportunities. The 5.793-kilometre circuit, characterised by long straights and low-downforce set-ups, will challenge drivers with energy management and rear axle traction, especially at the First Chicane and Ascari. While braking stability is crucial, the recently resurfaced track and new kerb modifications at specific turns will influence performance. Historical records highlight that Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton share the most victories, Ferrari leads the constructors' tally and Pierre Gasly secured a memorable maiden win here in 2020.
Tyres Europe Publishes Comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment Findings For Key Tyre Categories
- By TT News
- September 01, 2026
Tyres Europe has released three summary reports detailing the findings of comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment studies focused on representative European tyre categories, including passenger-car, truck and bus, as well as retreaded and regrooved variants. The publications mark a significant effort to evaluate the environmental footprint of these products across their entire lifespan.
The assessments, executed by Sphera, utilised average industry data from multiple European manufacturers. The research framework examined environmental impacts spanning raw material extraction, production, logistics, usage and end-of-life disposal. Adherence to stringent international protocols, including ISO 14040 and ISO 14044, ensured methodological consistency, with an independent peer review further validating the conclusions.
For both passenger-car and truck tyre models, the operational phase emerged as the dominant factor in most impact categories, primarily due to fuel consumption linked to rolling resistance. Raw material processing constituted the second-largest burden. A notable finding revealed that a high-performance truck tyre exhibited an 8 to 27 percent reduction in environmental impacts relative to a medium-to-low-performance counterpart, attributed to superior rolling resistance and enhanced tread life.
The retreading analysis stressed that circularity must be balanced with use-phase efficiency, with findings based on scenario-driven break-even analyses due to limited measured data. The reports assert that tyre sustainability cannot be judged by a single metric, advocating a holistic view of materials, manufacturing, mileage, and rolling resistance. These insights aim to inform policy frameworks, including the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation and EU climate legislation.
STA Recognised For Advancing Science-Based Net Zero Targets
- By TT News
- September 01, 2026
Sri Trang Agro-Industry Public Company Limited (STA) was among 16 industrial organisations recognised for climate action during a recent Bangkok seminar. The event, held on 18 August 2026 at the Thailand Institute of Justice, marked the conclusion of the ‘Project to Promote Greenhouse Gas Emission Target Setting for the Industrial Sector towards Net Zero using the Science Based Target Approach (Phase 3)’, organised by the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization and Thammasat University's Center of Excellence in Energy Efficiency.
STA participated in developing a Net Zero Pathway aligned with updated certification criteria. The sustainability team shared insights on embedding Net Zero objectives into operations, highlighting management and employee roles in advancing the environmental agenda. A formal certificate was presented to Dr Saranthinee Mongkolratthe, the company's Sustainability Division Manager.
STA targets a 23 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 from a 2024 baseline, aiming for Net Zero by 2050. Initiatives include energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy adoption and emission reduction plans across factory and group levels. Digital technology and artificial intelligence are deployed for carbon management, enabling performance monitoring and data analysis to support long-term decisions.
STA is also developing low-carbon natural rubber throughout its supply chain to meet global demand for sustainable products. The company's project involvement and recognition demonstrate its commitment to translating targets into action, positioning the business for low-carbon growth while contributing to Thailand's national sustainability objectives.
Titan Unveils Comprehensive Booth Experience At 2026 Farm Progress Show
- By TT News
- September 01, 2026
Titan International is set to deliver a comprehensive experience for attendees at the 2026 Farm Progress Show, running from 1 to 3 September 2026. At Booth #24S, the company will showcase its extensive portfolio of off-highway tyres and tracks, offer exclusive savings opportunities and provide interactive tools designed to help farmers evaluate the financial benefits of its Low Sidewall Technology. The booth will also serve as a hub for meeting prominent agricultural personalities and supporting future farming leaders through a charitable initiative.
Visitors to the Titan booth can take advantage of a promotional offer providing USD 200 off a qualifying tyre purchase of USD 1,000 or more. Company representatives will be on-site to discuss eligible brands and products and to assist with the redemption process. Additionally, farmers are invited to use the interactive LSW Payback Calculator to assess the potential return on investment for their specific operations. Titan notes that in most scenarios, these tyres can pay for themselves in less than 18 months.
The booth will feature appearances by well-known figures from the agricultural and racing worlds. NASCAR driver and eighth-generation watermelon farmer Ross Chastain is scheduled to appear on Wednesday from 9 am to 12 pm, offering attendees a chance to see his racecar and discuss his farm's use of Titan and Goodyear tyres. Throughout the show, social media personalities will also be present, including the Welker Family and Cole the Cornstar, who will showcase their equipment and discuss their experiences with Titan products.
A highlight of the show will be the first-ever Farm Progress After Hours event on 2 September. Hosted in partnership with Van Wall Equipment and John Deere at Booth #24S, the evening will feature a concert by Iowa country artist Jason Brown and a pyrotechnic drone light show. The event is included with show admission and will commence after the exhibition booths close for the day.
Titan is reinforcing its commitment to rural communities through a tyre raffle benefiting Iowa FFA chapters. Attendees can purchase raffle tickets from FFA students at the booth for a chance to win a set of four tyres, with winners able to choose from Carlstar, Titan or ITP branded products. Proceeds from the raffle will be distributed to participating Iowa FFA chapters, supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.
As a one-stop shop for off-highway wheel and tyre solutions, Titan will display products from its family of brands, including Goodyear Farm Tires, Carlstar and ITP. With over 40 product lines and 100 tyres on display, the booth aims to provide solutions for various equipment needs.
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