Inspired by social perceptions of waste that, in many cases, remain negative, TNU has created a photography contest called “The Tyre in a Positive Light,” aiming to bring together creativity, visual culture and sustainability and invite public to reinterpret the tyre from a constructive perspective
About the TNU Contest
Throughout the years, end-of-life tyres have been seen as a form of waste associated with pollution. However, in the current transition towards a circular economy, end-of-life tyres have become a clear example of transforming waste into a resource that has economic, environmental and social value. Today, end-of-life tyres are recycled and reused in a wide range of applications, ranging from pavements and sports surfaces to solutions for mobility, industry and urban design, demonstrating that responsible waste management is certainly possible. But another challenge still exists, often less visible: changing the way people perceive waste and the role it can play in sustainable economies.
That is how TNU created “The Tyre in a Positive Light” photography contest with a clear goal: changing the way the public sees waste using visual culture, sustainability and creativity.
The competition does not only focus on professional photographers, but also on amateurs, sutdent and visual creators who want to contribute with their own vision. Submissions may address topics such as recycling, reuse, sustainability model, urban environments or nature, from a creative and forward-looking perspective.
People can participate on Instagram with traditional photography, illustrations and digital creations in a fixed image format. Images created using AI are also accepted, provided this is clearly stated in the post. Entries are open until 28 February 2026, and the competition offers cash prizes and commendations, including a public vote category, encouraging participants to share their images and amplify the message.
The competition is not aimed solely at professional photographers, but also at amateurs, students and visual creators who wish to contribute their own vision. Submissions may address themes such as recycling, reuse, sustainable mobility, urban environments or nature, always from a creative and forward-looking perspective.
