Air emissions and noise

Solvent emissions, i.e. volatile organic compounds (VOC) constitute the most significant emissions into the air from the operations of Nokian Tyres. Further emissions into the air include dust and odour,  which are generated in rubber compound mixing and tyre curing.

In the rubber industry solvents are used as different glues to increase adherence. Volatile organic compounds increase lower atmosphere ozone and for that reason the EU has set European tyre manufacturers objectives for reducing solvent emissions. According to the VOC directive, emissions may total no more than 25% of the purchased solvents. In addition, the environmental permit sets a maximum emissions limit of 55 tonnes. The target values became effective in 2007.

Nokian Tyres has been able to reduce the solvent emissions to the atmosphere by means of an incinerator and by replacing solvents with other agents. In 2008 the VOC-emission was 50% and thus Nokian Tyres exceeds the emission limits. In 2009 the total amount of emissions will be essentially lower compared to the year 2008.

 
Noise

The noise emanating from the plant to the surrounding areas is measured on a regular basis in accordance with the environmental permit. The next survey will be conducted in 2009. The environmental permit granted to Nokian Tyres states that the daytime noise level may not exceed 55 decibels; the night-time limit is 50 dB.