WDK leader sets out way forward for Germany’s rubber industry

Munich, Germany – Current challenges around mobility and climate change can only be tackled “with intelligent and sustainable technical solutions," according to Anish Taneja, president of German rubber industry association the WDK.

In an address for the recent IAA Mobility 2021 event in Munich, Taneja said "this is a joint task, and our industry is currently examining and implementing all optimisation potential, from the smallest seal to the largest tire, to find a solution."

The WDK leader also stressed the need for: fair supply chains, a bio-based materials strategy, raw materials sustainability, responsible carbon footprint, an optimised rubber recycling economy and product durability. products. 

The official went on to highlight the strategic importance of natural rubber as a raw material with a positive initial CO? balance and the indispensable basis for durable and resistant products. 

Noting that the EU lead the world is setting standards for environmental protection and human rights, Taneja said keeping rubber processing in Europe was imperative for political decision-makers. 

“The best climate protection is industrial production in Germany and Europe,” he argued. “That is why imports must also meet the same high standards and be comprehensively monitored by the state. We need a level playing field in international competition.” 

For Germany, the WDK president urged resilient sustainability infrastructures and, above all, charging points in order to roll out state-sponsored electric mobility. 

“Our products are ready. Now the federal, state and local authorities must also tackle,” concluded Taneja.