Michelin says its goal of “achieving 40% sustainable materials (of renewable or recycled origin) by 2030 and 100% by 2050” is one step closer to reality. The French tire giant has successfully tested a plastic recycling technology by French biochemistry company Carbios that can be used in tire production.
Carbios’ enzymatic recycling process for polyethylene terephthalate (more commonly known as PET) plastic waste relies on an enzyme that is capable of depolymerizing plastic. PET is the type of plastic used to make bottles, polyester clothing and even some types of carpets. It’s commonly recycled (including into fleece jackets), but is also one major source of plastic waste. According to Michelin, conventional recycling practices do not result in a product suitable for use in tires, but the enzymatic process’ resulting “high tenacity polyester is particularly suitable for tires, due to its breakage resistance, toughness, and thermal stability.”
Michelin estimates that nearly 3 billion plastic bottles per year could be recycled into technical fibers for use in the company’s tires.
Tires are a need for consumers……unlike wind turbines.
One step closer to annually creating untold numbers of tons of microplastic bits
washed from the roadways to our lakes and oceans, then into our food, then into us.
Hey, Michelin, be sure to use the extra-toxic kinds of plastics so that we don’t linger for long.
Years ago I had it in my skull that these were the best tires on the market. I changed over the same week I’d buy a new car. Took a lot of years and dollars until I realized they are over rated same as the old Sears die hard battery. At one time the die hard was tough. Hell, they only carry a 3 year warranty today and cost is out of sight. I’ve since made out find price shopping.