In Dübendorf, St. Gallen, and Thun, researchers from Empa and wst21 have highlighted the significant role of tire wear from vehicles in contributing to microplastics in the environment. Their findings, addressing postulate Po 19.3559, reveal that the friction between tires and roads during normal and high-speed maneuvers like acceleration and braking releases rubber particles. These particles, combining tire and road material, are a major source of microplastics, with Switzerland estimating 90% of such pollutants stem from tire wear, averaging about 1.4 kilograms per person annually.

Despite efforts, a large portion of these particles ends up in waterways and soil, posing potential risks to aquatic life and the environment due to the toxicity of certain rubber compounds. The researchers propose various strategies to mitigate this issue, including improving tire compositions to reduce wear and toxicity, adjusting vehicle factors like weight and tire pressure, and promoting smoother driving practices.

Additionally, enhancing road drainage systems and exploring innovative methods to capture tire wear before it enters the environment are under consideration. However, the implementation of such measures varies by area, with urban settings facing more challenges. The study underscores the need for international standards in measuring tire wear to effectively manage and reduce its environmental impact, with discussions for a unified approach ongoing within the UNECE and expected EU regulations in the coming years.

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