Microplastics From Your Tyres: How Big Is the Problem?

In a previous deep dive into tyre pollution and the impact of both tyre production and driving on the environment, we highlighted the unexpected but very real threat of microplastics.

The reality is that when tyres are driven, regardless of the road surface you’ve navigating, they release tiny particles known as TWPs (Tyre Wear Particles). These microplastics are not only inhaled by those who live close to highways and high traffic areas, but they are released into water systems, and into agricultural systems – directly affecting food sources and critical ecosystems.

So, what can be done about it?

How Are Microplastics Linked With Tyres?

Before we share some of the things that drivers can do to minimise their contribution towards the release of harmful microplastics, let’s first understand exactly how they come about and the issues they cause.

University studies across the UK prove that the link between microplastics and tyres is viable – and that the threat is very real. While carbon emissions from the vehicles themselves used to be a major cause of pollution, a tightening up of regulations – and improvements on the part of vehicle manufacturers – has meant that tyre abrasion and brake wear is now a rising concern, and one which remains unregulated.

In short, every time tyres are driven, they release microscopic fragments into the air and atmosphere around them. This is caused by nothing more than regular wear, with some of the more toxic fragments causing issues for humans and other wildlife. Some of the major issues linked to the release of microplastics, that affect humans, include respiratory challenges, acute toxicity, oxidative stress and cardiovascular issues.

What Can Drivers Do to Minimise Microplastics?

There is no escaping the fact that as tyres are used, and as they become more worn, they start to degrade and break down, thereby releasing microplastics and other particles into the environment.

But there are things drivers can do to minimise their output.

• Make sure that tyres are properly inflated according to the weight of the vehicle. If tyres are not filled to the optimal pressure for the vehicle, excess pressure causes them to wear down more quickly
• Opt for eco-friendly tyres where possible, which counter carbon emissions and reduce rolling resistance
• Alter driving behaviour. This is a big one, as aggressive braking, acceleration and hard steering all contribute towards faster tyre wear and degradation
• Ensure that tyres are suitable for the terrain they are driving on. In other words, don’t take road tyres on rough off-road tracks, as this leads to a quicker breakdown in tyre tread structure

All of these changes are seemingly small but can help to minimise the release of microplastics into both the air and our environmental ecosystems.

What is the Industry Doing?

There is no escaping the fact that tyre wear and the release of TWPs is one of the most worrying parts of microplastic pollution in our modern world. The sheer number of cars and vehicles on the road makes this a challenge that feels impossible to tackle – and yet tyre brands and manufacturers are exploring and taking steps to mitigate the rising problem of microplastics.

Some of the changes that manufacturers are exploring include:

• The use of polymer compounds with lower abrasion and wear rates
• More advanced materials and monitoring technology, that informs a driver when their tyres are releasing high levels of microplastics
• Regulations that tackle higher levels of abrasion and wear, meaning drivers are more likely to adjust or replace tyres as needed

The reality is that tyre wear is a part of the industry, and that tyre wear has an environmental impact.

But making sure that you are driving tyres which are suitable for your vehicle and for the terrain around you, not to mention opting for eco-friendly tyres where possible, can help. Browse our full range of tyres from a diverse pool of brands and manufacturers over on our brand pages.