Retreading: A solution for the circular economy
The circular economy is set to become the defining business model of the future. By keeping limited resources in continuous use, it reshapes industries toward sustainability and long-term resilience. Tire retreading offers a powerful example of this principle in action. Instead of discarding worn tires, retreading extends their lifespan while dramatically reducing the consumption of valuable raw materials such as crude oil, natural rubber, and water.
The environmental impact is significant: retreading requires up to 70% less energy than manufacturing a new tire, resulting in substantial reductions in CO₂ emissions. Beyond its ecological benefits, retreading also delivers economic advantages. Because a large portion of the tire casing can be reused, the process is highly cost-efficient—proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.
The Environmental Benefits of Retreading
19%
reduced water consumption
21%
reduced CO₂ emissions
70%
reduction of natural resource extraction
29%
reduced land usage
21%
less air polution
Nearly 90% of fleets with 100+ trucks1 include retreads as part of their tire program, and for good reason. While retreading can lower your tire costs by 35%2, it is also a smart choice for the environment. Retreading helps to save CO2 emissions, as it requires up to 70 percent less energy compared to the production of a new tire, while usage of natural resources such as crude oil, natural rubber and water can also be significantly reduced. The fact that a large proportion of the casing can be reused contributes to the cost efficiency.
1J. Woodrooffe (2024). 2024 Addendum to the 2018 The State of Retread Tires in the United States & Canada.
2Internal estimates based on comparison of new and retread tires.
Expanding the Circular Economy
Retreading decreases cost per mile resulting in lower total cost of ownership, while increasing the overall distance in operation for the fleet.
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