In a monumental stride towards sustainability and environmental responsibility, premium tyre manufacturer Hankook has recently achieved the prestigious ISCC PLUS (International Sustainability & Carbon Certification) for its European production plant located in Rácalmás, Hungary. This significant accomplishment is a testament to Hankook's unwavering commitment to innovation and eco-friendly practices.
The ISCC PLUS certification, granted under the European Renewable Energy Directives (EU RED), is a recognition of Hankook's exceptional efforts in adopting sustainable practices at its Rácalmás plant. This certification is a crucial step in supporting the company's successful transition from traditional petroleum-based products to more eco-friendly alternatives. These include the shift from petroleum-based oil to natural oil, from petrochemical-based synthetic rubber to bio-based, circular or bio-circular polymers, and from petrochemical-based PET textile cord to recycled PET textile cord. Additionally, the plant has transitioned from using mineral silica fillers to bio-based silica fillers. This significant development not only underscores Hankook's dedication to sustainability but also represents a groundbreaking achievement for the entire tyre industry.
The ISCC PLUS certification evaluates a company's sustainability across the entire spectrum, from the raw materials used and manufacturing processes to the finished products. Affiliated with 130 sustainable raw material manufacturers, NGOs, and research institutes worldwide, ISCC is renowned for its stringent certification procedures and transparent screening standards.
This achievement is not the first time Hankook has been recognized for its sustainability efforts. In 2021, the company's plant in Geumsan, Korea, made history by becoming the world's first tyre manufacturer to obtain ISCC PLUS certification. This solidified Hankook's position as a trailblazer in responsible and sustainable tyre manufacturing.
Hyung Yun Kim, Managing Director of Hankook's plant in Hungary, expressed his pride in achieving this certification. "This achievement is testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation and sustainability," he said. "We believe that the ISCC PLUS certification is not only a validation of our efforts but also a strong message to the industry that responsible and eco-conscious manufacturing is not only possible but also necessary for a successful future."
The rigorous certification process involved a comprehensive review of Hankook's operations, from sourcing certified raw materials to applying appropriate manufacturing procedures. This achievement serves as an annual reaffirmation of Hankook's dedication to upholding environmentally friendly practices.
Furthermore, Hankook plans to intensify its activities in the area of long-term carbon neutrality and resource conservation. The company aims to utilize sustainable raw materials in its iON tyre family, which is specifically designed for electric vehicles.
Hankook's ISCC PLUS certification is a significant milestone that reflects the company's dedication to a greener future and its leading role in shaping the tyre industry's sustainable transformation. As we move towards a more eco-conscious world, Hankook's achievements serve as an inspiration and a benchmark for other companies in the industry to follow suit.
