The Hidden Environmental Disaster: Tire Pollution

Tires are wreaking havoc on the environment in numerous ways that we may not even realize. While plastic straws are often blamed for polluting the ocean, a recent report by the Pew Charitable Trust reveals that about 78% of microplastics in the ocean actually come from synthetic tire rubber. This makes tire pollution a major contributor to plastic pollution in our oceans.

Researchers have identified a highly toxic chemical called 6PPD-q that is present in tire rubber and poses a serious threat to various fish species. Shockingly, tire manufacturers continue to use 6PPD, further exacerbating the problem. Although the full extent of this issue is still unknown, the sheer volume of microplastics in the ocean paints a grim picture.

In addition to 6PPD, tire manufacturing involves the use of many other potentially harmful chemicals that find their way into our oceans. These chemicals can have carcinogenic properties, further endangering marine life and ecosystems.

Legal Troubles for Tire Makers

The legal nonprofit Earthjustice recently threatened to sue tire manufacturers for violating the Endangered Species Act due to their use of 6PPD. Native American tribes have also called for a ban on the chemical, citing its devastating impact on local salmon populations. The magnitude of the issue is staggering, with approximately two billion tires produced worldwide each year, and this number projected to increase significantly.

Airborne Pollution From Tires

When we drive, the tires of our cars release trillions of ultrafine particles, each less than 100 nanometers in size, for every kilometer driven. These particles are small enough to be inhaled and enter our bloodstream. According to UK firm Emissions Analytics, these tire emissions can sometimes exceed the emissions that come directly from a car’s tailpipe.

The chemical 6PPD-q is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to tire pollution. The entire composition of tires remains largely unknown to the public, as tire manufacturers keep it highly confidential. Nick Molden, CEO of Emissions Analytics, highlights the lack of information available about the chemical cocktail present in tires. He states, ‘We struggle to think of another consumer product that is so prevalent in the world, and used by virtually everyone, where there is so little known of what is in them.’

Taking Action

The detrimental effects of tire pollution on the environment and our health cannot be ignored. It is crucial for tire manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and governments to address this issue urgently. Developing sustainable alternatives to tire materials and reducing the use of harmful chemicals can help mitigate the impact of tire pollution on our planet.

By raising awareness about the hidden environmental disaster caused by tires, we can work towards finding solutions that protect our oceans, wildlife, and overall well-being.

Source: Your Evil Car Is Filling the Ocean With Microplastics, Scientists Say