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USTMA Statement Regarding the University of Washington’s Research on 6PPD-Quinone and Coho Salmon

December 4, 2020

The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) today issued the following updated statement in response to a report on a recent study from the University of Washington:

The tire industry is science-driven and committed to safety and sustainability. We have invested tens of millions of dollars in peer-reviewed research with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development’s Tire Industry Project to assess the impact of tire materials on the environment, wildlife and human health, including tire and road wear particles (TRWP).

The tire industry believes in collaboration and supports efforts to improve scientific understanding of the potential impacts of TRWP. We are reviewing the study published in Science (December 3, 2020) that suggests a link between a degradation product of 6PPD from TRWP and Coho salmon mortality.

The tire industry uses 6PPD because it helps tires resist degradation and cracking, which is vital for passenger safety. 6PPD has been studied, but not enough is yet known about the newly discovered degradation product, 6PPD-quinone. We are committed to collaborating with researchers at the University of Washington and other scientists to better understand this product, fill knowledge gaps and determine next steps.

About USTMA

The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association is the national trade association for tire manufacturers that produce tires in the U.S. Our 11 member companies operate 56 tire-related manufacturing facilities in 16 states. U.S. tire manufacturing has an annual economic footprint of $170.6 billion and is responsible for more than 291,000 U.S. jobs in manufacturing, distribution and retailing. The industry supports more than 510,000 additional U.S. jobs in supplier and induced activities, totaling more than 801,000 jobs nationwide. USTMA advances a sustainable tire manufacturing industry through thought leadership and a commitment to science based public policy advocacy. Our member company tires make mobility possible. USTMA members are committed to continuous improvement of the performance of our products, worker and consumer safety and environmental stewardship. For more information, visit www.USTires.org and follow us on Twitter @USTires.