In an article authored by John Loudermilk, President and CEO, Birla Carbon, and published by Rubber News in October 2025, he explores the vital role that sustainable carbonaceous materials (SCM) could play in helping global industries move toward net zero carbon emissions.

John highlights how the global carbon black industry, essential to sectors such as automotive, plastics, coatings, inks, and electronics, is now at a pivotal moment of transformation.

With more than 80% of carbon black consumed by the tire industry, adopting circular and sustainable production pathways has become a key driver of progress toward decarbonization.

A major focus of the article is the shift from traditional recovered carbon black (rCB) to the more advanced and scalable Sustainable Carbonaceous Materials (SCM) platform. SCM represents a scientifically defined class of materials that meet both performance and sustainability expectations across a wide range of applications, from tires and rubber goods to plastics and coatings.

The piece also emphasizes the importance of clear industry terminology and standards. By formally distinguishing SCM from rCB, the industry can enhance quality assurance, regulatory confidence, and wider adoption across global markets.

Furthermore, John points out that SCM not only helps reduce emissions but also addresses a larger environmental challenge – the recycling of end-of-life tires, by transforming waste into a valuable resource.

Read John Loudermilk’s full article on Rubber News here: https://www.rubbernews.com/opinion/role-sustainable-carbonaceous-materials-achieving-net-zero-carbon-emissions