ENSO, a leader in tyre technology, has announced a transformative commitment to fully decarbonise its tyres by 2030, significantly ahead of the wider industry's 2050 target. This announcement, made during the COP28 summit in Dubai, marks a pivotal shift in the tyre industry's approach to environmental sustainability.
On Transport Day at COP28, ENSO unveiled its ambitious plan to phase out fossil fuel-based materials from its products within the next seven years. This decision positions ENSO at the vanguard of the tyre industry's efforts to combat climate change and environmental degradation.
ENSO's commitment is more than a statement of intent. The company, nominated for the 2023 Earthshot Prize in the 'Clean Our Air' category by Prince William, is recognised for its innovative approach to reducing air and microplastic pollution from tyres. Specialising in more efficient tyres for electric vehicles (EVs), ENSO aims to enhance EV range while reducing harmful emissions.
The tyre industry has long been scrutinised for its environmental impact, particularly regarding carbon emissions, air pollution, and microplastic pollution. Existing industry targets for decarbonisation by 2050 lack the urgency and transparency required to address global environmental challenges effectively. ENSO's bold move challenges the industry to expedite its environmental efforts.
Gunnlaugur Erlendsson, Founder and CEO of ENSO, highlighted the imperative role of the tyre industry in tackling climate change. "We all know that Earth is facing a climate crisis. The science is clear, and ENSO’s mission is clear. We are committed to decarbonising our entire supply chain by 2030," Erlendsson stated. He urged industry and global leaders at COP28 to join this crucial mission, asserting, "If we can do it, so can you."
In its quest for sustainability, ENSO plans to overhaul its production processes, transitioning to renewable, recyclable, bio-based, and low carbon raw materials. Furthermore, the company intends to produce its top-tier EV tyres in a new carbon-neutral tyre factory, ensuring that their products are not only eco-friendly but also safer, more durable, more energy-efficient, and more affordable.
This significant announcement was made by Gunnlaugur Erlendsson during a BloombergNEF panel at COP28, focusing on 'Zero-Emission Vehicles: Unlocking the Next Phase of Growth'. ENSO's commitment to decarbonisation represents a major step forward in the tyre industry's journey towards sustainability and sets a new benchmark for others to follow.
