BANGKOK, THAILAND – 22 November 2024 – Michelin, a global leader in composite materials and innovative solutions, welcomed international media to its two-day Asia Pacific Media Event at the Michelin Talent Campus in Chon Buri, Thailand. The event, themed “Innovating for a Sustainable Future,” highlighted the company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability, underscored by its All-Sustainable Strategy: People X Profit X Planet.
Manuel Fafian, President of Michelin East Asia and Oceania, opened the event, reflecting on Michelin’s commitment to sustainability. “These two days offer us a unique opportunity to share Michelin’s progress in building a sustainable future through our innovations,” Fafian said. “It was essential to bring our vision of ‘Innovating for a Sustainable Future’ to life by showcasing impactful initiatives in the Asia Pacific region and beyond.”
The event featured speeches by Michelin executives, who discussed the company’s leadership in technological advancements and its proactive efforts to address environmental challenges. Speakers from Kiattana, Maersk, and NIO also participated in various panels during the event.
A key highlight was a factory tour, offering guests an in-depth look at Michelin’s cutting-edge manufacturing processes. Visitors saw firsthand how sustainable practices, such as incorporating recycled and renewable materials like natural rubber and rice husk silica, are integrated into tire production.
Additionally, Michelin executives hosted a dinner at Haoma, a Michelin One Star and MICHELIN Green Star restaurant, underscoring the importance of sustainable gastronomy.
Sustainable Tire Innovations and 2050 Goals
Michelin’s target of using 100% recycled and renewable materials in its tires by 2050 took center stage during the event. Specially homologated tires, made with 45% bio-sourced and recycled materials for road use and 71% for racing, were displayed to show that sustainability doesn’t compromise performance.
“Michelin is committed to advancing sustainable mobility,” said Fafian. “We are proud to be leading the way with tire innovations that deliver performance while meeting the highest sustainability standards.”
In line with this, Michelin is also addressing the increased demands for tire performance in electric vehicles (EVs), developing tires that are longer-lasting and incorporate renewable and recycled materials. The company aims for 40% of tire materials to be renewable by 2030 and 100% by 2050.
Michelin’s All-Sustainable Strategy
Michelin’s sustainability strategy is built on three pillars:
- People: Michelin continues to prioritize the well-being of its employees, fostering diversity, inclusivity, and community. At the Talent Campus, journalists experienced Michelin’s commitment to creating a safe, engaging environment where talent and potential define careers.
- Profit: The company’s growth strategy integrates sustainable practices, ensuring financial success while leading the industry in technological innovation and product development. Michelin’s efforts include innovations like the wind propulsion solution Wisamo™ and regenerative medicine applications developed through its Solesis™ program.
- Planet: Michelin has set ambitious environmental goals, including net-zero emissions for its direct operations by 2050 and 100% renewable materials in tires by 2050. Through its Michelin Environmental Program (iMEP), the company is advancing sustainability, reducing its environmental impact, and promoting biodiversity and resource conservation.
A Leader in Composites and Sustainable Mobility
With more than 135 years of expertise in materials science, Michelin has become a leader in composite solutions, offering critical components across various sectors including mobility, healthcare, and construction. The company continues to innovate with flexible composites, which are used in products such as coated fabrics, belts, hoses, and tires.
As part of its ongoing efforts to transform mobility, Michelin showcased tires at the 2024 24H Le Mans event made with 71% sustainable materials, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward a more sustainable future.
About Michelin
Michelin is a pioneer in material science, transforming lives through its innovative products and solutions. With expertise in polymer composites, Michelin designs and manufactures high-performance tires and components for industries ranging from mobility and aerospace to energy and healthcare. The company’s commitment to sustainability and human progress is reflected in its continuous pursuit of innovation and its dedication to creating better, more sustainable solutions for the world. Learn more at www.michelin.com. (*)
