Have you heard of Eco Tyres? Neither had we, so we investigated it for you!
How are Eco Tyres different to normal tyres?
Traditional tyres can be bad for the environment in several ways. The governments air quality expert group have found that particles from tyres come off due to abrasion when driving and these are then found in the atmosphere[1].
Traditional tyres are also made from synthetic rubber. This comes from crude oil which is a fossil fuel and includes harmful chemicals.
These concerns have led the government to introduce legislation when it comes to the production and distribution of new tyres.
What are Eco Tyres?
The EU rates tyres on a scale of A-G. A is the most eco-friendly and G is the least. Tyres that have a rating of A or B are the best for the environment and are classed as eco or green tyres.[2]
Eco tyres, also known as green tyres, are tyres which are specially designed to be more environmentally friendly than traditional tyres[3]. For example, the materials used to make them are more sustainable and have a lower impact on the environment. They’re also thought to be more durable and fuel efficient as they provide better grip for braking.
Eco tyres are made to have a lower rolling resistance, which measures how much energy is lost when a tyre is in motion. For example, the lower the rolling resistance the lower the fuel consumption and emissions. They are also normally lighter than normal tyres, reducing fuel consumption.
What are eco tyres made of?
Eco tyres are made from natural rubber, organic cotton, and other eco-friendly materials. These materials being natural means that any particles given off through driving are not thought to be harmful. Being made with these materials also reduces the amount of energy needed to manufacture the tyre and makes them far easier to dispose of when they are at the end of their life.
What are the benefits of Eco tyres?
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Reduced fuel consumption
They have a lower rolling resistance; they include silica which helps grip the road better. Green tyres are also usually lighter than traditional tyres, which can help reduce fuel consumption.
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Better for the environment
As they’re made using natural and or recycled materials making them more biodegradable.
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Can be longer lasting
They are designed to be longer lasting as part of their eco rating.
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Reduced noise pollution
They are designed to be quieter on the road and shed less material into the atmosphere.
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Improved safety
Due to having a better grip than traditional tyres.
What are the disadvantages of eco tyres?
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Can be expensive
Natural resources often come at a cost, meaning the tyres made from them can be more expensive than traditional tyres.
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Not as widely available
Finding the exact size and model eco tyre for your car can be harder than the traditional tyre option. It’ll mean a bit more hunting to find what you need.
Further laws around tyres and their efficiency and environmental impact are expected to be made by the government as we move toward our goal of net zero by 2050. So it’s worth brushing up your knowledge on Eco Tyres!
Want to know more about how you can drive more environmentally friendly? Check out our blog 6 Eco Driving Tips
[1] Pollution warning over car tyre and brake dust – BBC News
[2] Eco tyres: how are they different? | RAC Drive
[3] Eco tyres: how are they different? | RAC Drive
