Ukraine war prompts increased interest from existing and new customers 

Stockholm – Waste tire pyrolysis company Scandinavian Enviro Systems has seen a “sharp increase of interest” in recovered carbon black and pyrolysis oil since the invasion of Ukraine by Russia on 24 Feb.

In a statement 17 March, the tire recycler said the rising interest had been observed in both new and old customers, but said it could not yet assess what that would mean in terms of specific orders or supply agreements.

“The increase in interest entails that we will need to set priorities carefully,” said Thomas Soerensson, CEO of Enviro

The company official said in the aftermath of the war, an earlier decision “not to be in a hurry to sign long-term supply agreements” was deemed to be 'a wise move.'

Citing to a US market research company, Enviro said Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus produce a significant part of all carbon black used in Europe.

At the same time, Enviro went on to say, Europe wants to reduce its dependence on Russian oil, a key feedstock for carbon black production.

“Accordingly, the war is likely to have a major impact on the supply of carbon black in Europe and globally,” said Soernsson.

“It is obvious that this is causing concern among tire and rubber manufacturers that shortages will occur,” he added.

The company boss said the increased interest was apparent “more or less immediately after the Russian invasion.”

“There has been a strong increase in the number of new and existing customers contacting Enviro to investigate the possibilities of receiving deliveries of carbon black from the company,” he said.