TOKYO—The way Zeon Corp. sees it, tires can be more than fuel-efficient. Tires can have sustainability built into their rubber compounds.
On Oct. 2, Zeon took a step toward helping to ensure tire makers have the kind of sustainable synthetic rubbers they need. Zeon Chemicals Singapore, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Zeon Corp., signed a memorandum of understanding with Shell Eastern Petroleum (Pte.) Ltd. that would ensure the supply of biomass-derived butadiene for the production of Zeon's SSBR.
"Through this latest initiative, Zeon will contribute to environmental sustainability along with safe and comfortable living by reducing CO2 emissions from driving vehicles as well as adopting the use of sustainable materials," the company said in statement.
The reduction of carbon emissions is one of the core principles of Zeon's guiding business strategy. The company is committed to carbon neutrality and the circular economy and is focusing on transforming its "Monozukuri"—Japanese for manufacturing—strategy into a medium-term business plan that launched in fiscal year 2021. A key element in that plan involves the shift to the use of sustainable raw materials.
To this end, Zeon is obtaining international certification for biomass-derived raw materials. The company considers the sales of SSBR made from sustainable butadiene to be a certified product.
Rubber News wants to hear from its readers. If you want to express your opinion on a story or issue, email your letter to Editor Bruce Meyer at [email protected].