Continental Innovates with Sustainable Rice Husk Fillers in Tires

**Continental AG Initiates Innovative Use of Rice Husk Ash in Tire Production**

*Hanover, Germany — July 8, 2025* — Continental AG, a leading tire manufacturer, has announced a groundbreaking initiative that incorporates ash from risotto rice husks into its tire production. This strategic move is part of the company's commitment to sustainability, aiming to increase the use of renewable and recycled materials in its products. Jorge Almeida, Head of Sustainability at Continental Tires, emphasized the company's dual focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, stating, "Innovation and sustainability go hand in hand at Continental. Using silica from the ashes of rice husks in our tires shows that we are breaking completely new ground – without compromising on safety, quality, or performance."

This initiative comes at a significant time as the global tire industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. According to Continental's projections, the share of renewable and recycled materials in their tire production is expected to rise from 26% in 2024 to over 40% by 2030. This enhancement will be achieved without compromising the high safety and performance standards synonymous with Continental Tires.

The primary materials in focus, carbon black and silica, are critical components in tire manufacturing. They contribute to essential qualities like grip and durability. Traditionally derived from fossil fuels, these materials are now being sourced through more sustainable methods. For instance, silica can be produced from rice husk ash rather than quartz sand, while carbon black can be sourced from bio-based materials and recycled end-of-life tires.

**The Role of Silica and Carbon Black in Tire Production**

Silica, a key filler used to enhance tire performance, has been utilized in Continental's products for nearly three decades. According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Materials Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and author of a 2023 study published in the *Journal of Sustainable Materials*, the shift to using agricultural by-products like rice husk ash is crucial for reducing the industry's carbon footprint. “The processing of rice husk ash into silica is significantly more energy-efficient compared to traditional methods,” Dr. Johnson stated.

Continental's innovative methods involve sourcing silica from agricultural by-products, such as those generated from the production of Italian risotto rice. This sustainable practice supports a circular economy and reduces reliance on non-renewable resources. The processing of these materials is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective, further enhancing Continental's competitive edge in the market.

**Partnerships and Future Directions**

Continental has also formed alliances with companies specializing in recycling technologies, such as Pyrum Innovations. This partnership focuses on recovering carbon black from end-of-life tires through advanced pyrolysis processes. As noted by Henry Schniewind, Head of External Communications at Continental Tires, "Our collaboration with Pyrum Innovations aims to optimize the recycling of tires, making recovered materials viable for new tire production, which aligns with our sustainability goals."

The company utilizes a mass balance approach in its production processes, allowing it to integrate renewable and recycled materials without requiring significant changes to its existing operations. This method is essential for maintaining cost efficiency while adhering to environmental standards.

**Industry Impact and Broader Implications**

The move towards sustainable materials in tire manufacturing is not just a trend but a necessity in the face of climate change and resource scarcity. According to a 2022 report by the International Rubber Study Group, the global tire market is projected to grow but will increasingly lean towards sustainable practices. This shift is driven by both consumer demand and regulatory requirements for sustainability across various industries.

Furthermore, the implications of Continental's innovations extend beyond the tire industry. As global economies push for carbon neutrality and sustainable practices, the adoption of materials derived from renewable resources can serve as a model for other sectors, including automotive and manufacturing.

**Conclusion**

Continental AG's initiative to integrate rice husk ash into its tire production represents a significant advancement in sustainable manufacturing practices. By prioritizing renewable and recycled materials, the company not only enhances its product offerings but also contributes positively to environmental sustainability. As Almeida rightly points out, the intersection of innovation and sustainability is crucial for the future of tire manufacturing, aligning business objectives with ecological responsibility. The shift to more sustainable practices will likely shape the future landscape of the automotive industry, setting a precedent for others to follow.

For more information, please contact: Laura Averbeck Manager Communications Sustainability Continental Tires +49 511 938-23614 laura.averbeck@conti.de

Henry Schniewind Head of External Communications Continental Tires +49 511 938-21810 henry.schniewind@conti.de