WDK takes over running of German tire recycling forum

Frankfurt, Germany – German rubber industry association the WDK has taken over the 'patronage' of tire recycling forum (AZuR) (alliance future tires), set up to drive innovation and sustainability within the industry.

AZuR was founded in September 2020 by the German ministry of education and research under the framework of ‘innovations forum for SMEs' and was funded by the scheme until 31 May.

Combining science and business, the objective of the interdisciplinary network is to help small and medium-sized tire recyclers develop new products and enter new sales markets. 

Going forward, WDK will be the new patron of the forum, which will be led by Stephan Rau, its technical managing director, the association announced 2 June.

The network currently includes 36 companies and organisations, and WDK aims to leverage its international network to further increase the role of recycling in the sustainability of the rubber industry.

The AZuR partners "have created a platform that enables an intensive exchange of knowledge about new [tire] recycling processes and new sustainable products,” said Anish Taneja, president of the WDK.

AZuR, added Taneja, will act as “a bridge builder” between tire recyclers and all players involved in the tire and rubber sector.