ETRMA publishes annual review

ERJ staff report (DS)

Brussels -- The ETRMA (European Association of Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers), has published its annual review of activities.

The 26-page report covers most of the activities of the group, from REACH to the PAH oils and the Global harmonisation of classification and labelling systems (GHS)

In chapter 2, the review reports on progress in simplifying the tyre regulatory framework both within the EU and on a global basis.

The third chapter focusses on 'Contributing to a cleaner and greener environment' This chapter focusses on the forthcoming EU legislation. The report says, "European tyre manufacturers, while supportive of the EU's objectives, nevertheless caution that, when targeting tyre performances, only technically achievable targets and integrated policies will allow the establishment of measures able to meet legislators' and consumers' expectations."

On noise regulations, the report says, "The European tyre industry is fully committed to contributing to the reduction of tyre-road noise emissions. Nevertheless, it brings to the attention the fact that, for each vehicle, a corresponding tyre size and category is fixed by the vehicle manufacturer. Within a single size and category, tyre modifications can only provoke changes in noise levels of approximately 2 dB(A). Road surface alterations, on the other hand, can introduce a variation of as much as 10 dB(A). Reducing driving speeds from 80 to 60 km/h can decrease tyre-road noise by a further 4 dB(A). Data on these complementary approaches are based on tried and tested techniques and their impact can be measured accurately.

The fourth chapter is titled, A new partnership for improved market access. It confirmed that the ETRMA has proposed the setting up of a Market Access Working Group on Tyres, which would, ideally be matched by equivalent bodies in New

Delhi, Beijing and Jakarta. The aim of these teams would be to remove trade barriers in the tyre sector. The report says, "we believe it is of primary importance to maintain regular contacts with the local authorities on the ground in order to better anticipate regulatory initiatives and promote the benefits of adhering to or, at least providing equivalence with international technical regulations, such as the ones developed under the UN/ECE 1958 Agreement."

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Website of ETRMA