NEXEN TIRE, a prominent global tire manufacturer, has announced a long-term supply agreement with LD Carbon Co., Ltd., a company specializing in resource circulation and materials recycling. This strategic partnership centers on the supply of recovered carbon black (rCB), a key ingredient in tire production, as part of NEXEN TIRE’s broader sustainability efforts.

Recovered carbon black is derived by pyrolyzing end-of-life tires in an oxygen-free environment, a process that significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional methods. By integrating rCB into its manufacturing processes, NEXEN TIRE aims to enhance its eco-friendly production capabilities and contribute to the circular economy. The use of rCB is especially impactful because carbon black plays a crucial role in enhancing the strength, durability, and overall performance of tires.

Replacing petroleum-based carbon black with a recycled alternative is a forward-thinking approach that maintains product quality while reducing environmental impact. NEXEN TIRE has been gradually increasing the use of sustainable materials and views this agreement as a catalyst for accelerating its transition to greener raw materials.

The supply of recovered carbon black will support operations at NEXEN TIRE’s global manufacturing facilities, including sites in Korea, China, and the Czech Republic. This move is part of the company’s effort to develop a circular resource system that ensures a reliable and consistent supply of recycled materials across its international production network.

This initiative also reflects NEXEN TIRE’s commitment to improving sustainability throughout the entire value chain—from sourcing raw materials to final manufacturing. It aligns closely with the company’s broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals and enhances its ability to comply with evolving global regulations.

One such regulation, the European Union’s upcoming Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), will require tire manufacturers to use sustainable materials. As Europe accounts for approximately 40% of NEXEN TIRE’s total sales, the proactive establishment of a sustainable supply chain positions the company advantageously in a critical market.

John Bosco (Hyeon Suk) Kim, CEO of NEXEN TIRE, emphasized the importance of this development: “Expanding the usage of recovered carbon black is a strategic step that demonstrates our commitment to ESG management and proactive response to global environmental concerns. We will continue to accelerate the transition to eco-friendly materials and establish a tire manufacturing system that minimizes environmental impact from production to disposal.”

Through this long-term collaboration with LD Carbon, NEXEN TIRE is paving the way for more sustainable tire production and reinforcing its leadership in environmental responsibility.