IT is a test of endurance like no other. But this year’s Tour de France was more sustainable than ever before – with one of the teams using the world’s first Forest Stewardship Council-certified tyres.
Developed by leading manufacturer Pirelli, the P ZERO Race RS contained sustainably-sourced natural rubber, which made up 23 per cent of the tyre’s materials. This “groundbreaking innovation” in manufacturing was said to mark “a significant step forward” in the quest for sustainable cycling solutions.
The tyre made its debut on the road as the official tyre for Team Lidl-Trek, and was used throughout the world’s most famous road cycling event last month.
“The decision to use more and more FSC-certified natural rubber in our products is in line with Pirelli’s concern for nature and biodiversity,” said Piero Misani,
Pirelli’s chief technical officer. “But also with the desire to bring benefits to the people and workers from which natural rubber is derived.”
Natural rubber has been a cornerstone of tyre manufacturing for decades, valued for its superior elasticity, resilience, and durability. However, the environmental impact of its production has raised concerns, as traditional rubber harvesting can lead to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and significant carbon emissions.
The new FSC-certified tyre addresses these issues: FSC certification ensures that the natural rubber used in the tyre is sourced from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.
“Sourcing natural rubber sustainably is crucial to protecting our world’s forests,” said Fabian Farkas, chief commercial officer at FSC International.
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