Astutus Research has launched a new intelligence service tracking the generation, management, and export of used and end-of-life tyres (ELTs) across Europe. The service combines a biannually updated database with an in-depth annual report, Tire Recovery & Recycling in Europe, 2032.
New Market Intelligence Platform Released by Astutus Research
The report finds that Europe generated approximately 4.4 million tonnes of used tyres in 2025, essentially flat compared to the previous year. Passenger car and light truck (PCLT) tyres account for roughly two-thirds of this volume (2.8 million tonnes), with truck and bus tyres contributing 1.2 million tonnes and specialty tyres delivering around 0.4 million tonnes. Replacement sales drive 92% of used tyres, with end-of-life vehicle (ELV) scrappage contributing just 8%.
Geographically, Western Europe generates over 80% of total volumes, producing 3.18 million tonnes of ELTs in 2025. However, Central Europe is driving net growth due to an expanding vehicle parc and rising road freight.
Exports remain a critical outlet. Reported exports of used and waste tyres from Western Europe to non-European destinations reached around 1.7 million tonnes in 2025—up roughly 75% since 2019. India absorbs almost half of these exports, followed by Turkey and Morocco. However, Astutus Research notes that ELT flows face upcoming disruption from stricter traceability rules, the EU artificial turf rubber infill ban, and emerging pyrolysis capacity.
In the short term, ongoing Middle East hostilities and elevated fuel prices continue to weigh on vehicle kilometres driven. Longer term, Astutus forecasts European used tyre generation to rise by almost 350,000 tonnes by 2032 to exceed 4.7 million tonnes. PCLT tyres drive most of this growth, propelled by heavier vehicles, larger rim sizes, faster EV tyre wear, and recovering scrappage rates. Growth in the truck and bus tyre segment is expected to be more modest.
The service covers 27 countries: 24 EU member states alongside the UK, Norway, and Switzerland. Across all 27 markets, the database tracks used tyre generation by country, segment (PCLT, truck & bus, specialty), and source channel (replacement vs. ELV).
For the 16 Western European markets, the data offers deeper granularity. It tracks used tyres by country and segment, ELTs by country, and waste rubber exports by country of origin and destination. The report also evaluates Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, examining their regulatory scope and evolving treatment outcomes.
The dataset is built using a bottom-up model of used tyre generation. Replacement volumes are calculated using fitment data for new, retreaded, and part-worn tyres, while ELV volumes are derived from vehicle dismantling figures. Modelled volumes are then cross-checked against EPR scheme reports, official government collection and treatment datasets, and international trade data. These forecasts integrate Astutus’s proprietary projections for vehicle kilometres travelled (VKMT), vehicle parc growth, and tyre replacement rates.
The service targets tyre manufacturers, EPR schemes, recyclers, pyrolysis developers, cement producers, investors and policymakers who need a reliable view of ELT volumes and flows.
Readers interested in learning more about the report can contact the Tyre & Rubber Recycling editorial team for further information at [email protected].
