Remanufacturing 40 www.aftermarketonline.net MARCH 2025 A new initiative to get to grips with sustainability and traceability in the tyre supply chain is gaining traction thanks to Yokohama Rubber. Yokohama tyres are distributed in the UK by Yokohama HPT for passenger car, 4×4, motorsport and commercial vehicle tyres. The company recently held a seminar in Thailand to help natural rubber farmers improve the quality and productivity of the material. Fifty farm households in the Surat Thani area participated in the event to learn more about the selection and planting of natural rubber seedlings, the aims and effects of applying fertiliser, and the importance of preventing foreign substances from entering natural rubber. This follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the Rubber Authority of Thailand to cooperate in providing economic support for the farmers and to improve traceability to ensure transparency and soundness of the natural rubber supply chain. The farmers who attended the seminar will provide rubber samples every month for one year for a programme tracking changes in the physical properties of natural rubber related to the use or nonuse of fertilisers and the impact of seasonal changes on trees selected as survey samples. Number is up for waste New ‘Free-Cycle’ initiative by plates maker Tennants UK is designed to help garages clear away discarded number plates sustainably With sustainability and waste management becoming a growing focus for businesses, Tennants UK is calling on dealerships, motor factors and retailers to take a proactive stance in addressing environmental responsibilities. The company, a leader in number plate manufacturing, is championing the need for sustainable practices through its innovative FreeCycle number plate recycling initiative, designed to help businesses who produce a regular supply of number plates stay ahead of changing recycling regulations and reduce their carbon footprint. Recycling regulations introduced in Wales in 2023 mandated businesses to separate recyclable materials such as metal, glass and certain plastics from general waste. While plastic number plates are currently excluded, consultations are underway to implement similar simpler recycling legislation across England. Tennants is encouraging its partners to act now, offering them a hassle-free solution to recycle old and discarded number plates responsibly and cost-effectively. The company aims to reduce the environmental impact of discarded number plates by creating a sustainable loop that reuses valuable materials. The Free-Cycle initiative simplifies the recycling process for businesses by providing free stillage bins to collect discarded number plates, which are collected and taken away by Tennants once they are full. The waste plates are then sorted, cleaned and processed into materials that can be reused to create new, sustainable products. This turnkey solution eliminates the need for businesses to pay for private waste disposal services, while ensuring full compliance with future regulations. Stephen Archer, business development and marketing manager at Tennants UK, said: “We understand the uncertainty and costs businesses face with evolving recycling legislation. That’s why we launched Free-Cycle, the UK’s first dedicated number plate recycling service. “By offering a free and seamless recycling solution, we’re not just helping businesses comply with upcoming regulations but also empowering them to lead the way in sustainability. “Our initiative ensures waste is diverted from landfills, helping our partners reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a circular economy. “Businesses that embrace sustainability today are building a future-proof strategy for tomorrow. Our Free-Cycle service is a step towards a more sustainable aftermarket, and we’re proud to lead the way in supporting our partners through these changes.” Tennants UK is a leading provider of number plate solutions, dedicated to helping automotive businesses meet compliance requirements while improving operational efficiency. With decades of experience, we continue to innovate with initiatives like Free-Cycle, offering businesses the tools they need to succeed sustainably in a rapidly evolving market. Visit https://www. tennantsuk.com/recycleyour-number-plates/ to find out more about our Free-Cycle recycling solution and how businesses can participate. FREECYCLE Yokohama rolls out tyre supply chain sustainability
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=