ETRMA backs ambitious new European climate targets

Brussels – The European tire industry has welcomed new ambitious climate goals set out by the European Commission, and called for ‘clear policies’ and ‘financial support’ to be put in place to back the green transition.

In a plan presented 17 Sept, the European Commission proposed to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, and make the region ‘climate neutral’ by 2050.

Supporting the ambitious goals, the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA) said achieving the targets required “close coordination between industry, the European institutions and member states”

Such coordination, it said, should include clear policies on industrial competitiveness, trade, digitalisation, skills and mobility.

“To ensure that this level of ambition becomes a reality, it needs to be sustained by equally ambitious financial support so that the green transition is achieved without leaving anyone behind,” said ETRMA secretary general Fazilet Cinaralp in a 17 Sept statement.

Referring to the “long-lasting” impact of Covid-19 on the European economy and the tire industry, ETRMA said a successful recovery should be supported by a transition to a decarbonised and digitalised industry.

Therefore, Cinaralp said, ETRMA welcomes the EU commitment of directing 37% of NextGenerationEU to support green projects and 20% to boost digital transformation. 

According to ETRMA, the European tire industry has been committed, for many years, to reducing CO2 footprint throughout the tire life cycle and investing in innovative and sustainable mobility technologies.

Tire manufacturers, the ETRMA statement said, have actively pursued steps to decarbonise their manufacturing facilities throughout the EU. 

In addition, the industry plays an essential role in "greening the mobility sector" through optimising tire technology to improve vehicle’s fuel efficiency and developing new digital services in transportation.

Looking towards the 2030 and 2050 goalposts, ETRMA said that the tire industry will continue building on these efforts and work closely with European and national institutions support the targets.