Schwalbe is currently one of the leading companies in the production of bicycle tiresThis role does not derive only from the number of pieces produced each year but also from being a cutting-edge company for several years now, in convincingly promoting the theme of environmental sustainability. Just think of the new headquarters company, recently inaugurated, which makes sustainability one of its strengths (opening photo).
Ralf Bohle, CEO and founder of Schwalbe, has always considered it a priority that the production of new tyres was accompanied by constant research into a process for recycle those usedToday this long research process, which began in 1993, has finally come to a conclusion.
A unique process
After decades of research and after having developed a pilot project, Schwalbe has developed an innovative and unique recycling process for recycling used tires of all brands, completely waste-free. The company is supported by the Technical University of Cologne and recycling specialists Pyrum Innovations. The latter operates the world's only tire pyrolysis plant that operates 365 days a year.
The new recycling process implemented by Schwalbe represents a quantum leap in environmental awareness and ecological responsibility. Until now, used tires were incinerated, raw materials were lost and climate-damaging CO2 was released.Now, new tires are being produced from used ones. Metaphorically, we can say that the great circle has finally closed.
How does it work?
Schwalbe's recycling process involves a series of well-defined steps. It begins with the collection of used tires, which are then transported to the Pyrum Innovations headquarters. Here they are shredded into rubber, steel and fabric granulates. Next comes the pyrolysis of the rubber granules, that is, their decomposition through heat treatment into oil, gas, and pyrolysis coke (rCB: recycled carbon black, ed.). The last step is the use of rCB for the creation of new products.
Today recycled materials are not always of the same quality as the original ones. However, this is an essential requirement for the success of the new bicycle tire production project starting from used ones. This is an aspect that Schwalbe is working on and researching a lot.
The tire recycling process currently implemented by Schwalbe It is available exclusively in Germany and has seen the participation of around 400 retailersAll of them were sent a specially developed box.
During the days of the fair euro Bike which took place in Frankfurt from 13 to 17 July, the company has announced that for the 2023 edition of the same trade fair The first Schwalbe tire made from 100% recycled bicycle tires will be presented.
