Carbon emissions are widely recognised as one of the primary drivers of climate change, posing a significant threat to global ecosystems and human well-being. In particular, the transportation sector has emerged as a significant contributor to the escalation of carbon emissions, with vehicles representing a major source of this environmental malaise in India. According to a recent report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), the transportation industry in India is responsible for a staggering 23% of all carbon emissions, with vehicles and two-wheelers accounting for 10% of this total. This alarming trend underscores the pressing need to address the negative impact of vehicular emissions on the environment and adopt sustainable transportation alternatives to mitigate the harmful effects of climate change.
The need for sustainable practices in tyre production
Recognising the dire need to adopt more sustainable practices, the industry is identifying greener alternatives. With respect to tyre production, tyre retreading is an eco-friendly alternative that minimises waste. Millions of tyres are wasted each year, which has potentially harmful effects on the environment. Retreading rejuvenates a worn-out tyre by replacing the old tread with a new one, extending its life and usability. Tyre retreading saves resources by recycling materials and lowers waste production. Retreading tyres is an economical way to reduce expenses, improve sustainability, and cut back on carbon emissions by up to 70%. It is a realistic alternative for people who want to lessen their carbon footprint and contribute to a more environmentally friendly future. This process also helps conserve natural resources by utilising the existing tyre casings.
Benefits of retreading
Retreading offers several advantages over the traditional method of disposing of used tyres.
Environmental benefits: Retreading reduces waste by extending the life of a tyre, which means fewer tyres end up in landfills. This, in turn, reduces the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere due to tyre decomposition. Retreading even a fraction of these tyres can significantly impact reducing waste and carbon emissions. The tyre industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with tyre manufacturing and disposal accounting for a huge amount of global carbon emissions. Retreading can help reduce these emissions by decreasing the need for new tyre production, a highly energy-intensive process. Retreading also helps conserve natural resources, such as rubber and oil, used in tyre production.
• Economic benefits: In addition to environmental benefits, as per the Fortune Business Insights report, retreading also offers economic benefits. Retreaded tyres typically cost 30-50% less than new tyres, making them an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers and businesses. Retreading also creates jobs in the tyre industry, which can positively impact local economies.
• Challenges around retreading: However, some challenges must be overcome for retreading to reach its full potential.
• Lack of awareness and education: One challenge is the need for more awareness and education about the benefits of retreading. Many consumers and businesses need to be aware of the environmental and economic benefits of retreading and may be hesitant to choose retreaded tyres over new ones.
• Perception of safety and reliability: Another challenge is the perception that retreaded tyres are less safe or reliable than new ones. This perception is largely unfounded. The retreading industry has been growing steadily in recent years, driven by gradually increasing awareness of sustainability and cost-effectiveness and the use of cutting-edge machinery and technology to guarantee that retreaded tyres are just as dependable and safe as brand-new tyres.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing the negative impact of vehicular emissions on the environment and adopting sustainable transportation alternatives is urgent. Tyre retreading is one such sustainable alternative that can significantly reduce waste and carbon emissions while conserving natural resources. Retreading offers environmental and economic benefits, including reduced waste and greenhouse gas emissions, lower costs and job creation. However, the lack of awareness and education about the benefits of retreading and the perception that retreaded tyres are less safe and reliable than new tyres remain significant challenges. Nevertheless, as more consumers become aware of the benefits of sustainable practices, the tyre industry will be more motivated to adopt more environmentally friendly alternatives and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Image courtesy Continental Tires India
Source: Continental Tires India