Reducing the Release of Microplastic from Tire Wear: Nordic Efforts

Tire wear is the single most important source of microplastic particles in the Nordic countries. Commissioned by the Nordic Working Group for Circular Economy (NCE), NIVA has assessed the Nordic efforts on microplastic leaching from tire wear to the marine environment. This report addresses five key questions; what measures have been identified, what actions have been  taken, how has the work been organized, which good practices can be instructive, and what recommendations can be made for the Nordic countries? Our findings indicate that none of the Nordic countries have implemented specific measures against microplastic leaching from roads to the marine environment. Targeted efforts against particle pollution from road and tire wear in general may cover microplastic as well. The report describes relevant measures and their implementation in the Nordic countries and provides recommendations for future work.