The European Union's (EU's) proposed tyre labelling system will have direct benefits for tyre manufacturers and the environment.

The proposed system aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and noise pollution from road traffic.

The directive, should come into effect in 2012, will specify the criteria for braking performance, rolling resistance and rolling noise.

If the European Parliament approves the current version of the directive, all tyres intended for sale on the replacement market in Europe, as well as for new vehicles, will be equipped with a standardised label.

The label comprises a specification on the basis of seven classes for rolling resistance, braking performance and details of the noise level generated by the tyre when rolling.

Any company that manufactures and exports tyres to the European market and will have to take note of the changes required and introduce them.

It is suggested that decreased rolling resistance increases fuel efficiency, consequently reducing environmental damage.

With consideration for the environment in mind, companies are becoming aware of the urgent need to develop more fuel efficient tyres.

In addition to this, hybrid systems, engine control units, commercial vehicle tyres with enhanced rolling resistance and tyre pressure monitoring systems are being deleloped.

All of these things will contribute to the decrease in fuel consumption.