Hankook Tire & Technology released its 2024/25 ESG Report, presenting its latest performance, sustainability initiatives, and future strategy. Now in its 16th edition, the report reflects the company’s commitment to environmental, social, and governance practices across global operations, it said.
This year’s report introduces an updated framework aligned with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), using a double materiality approach to define ESG disclosures. The framework assesses social, environmental, and financial impacts. It features strengthened biodiversity-related disclosures meeting standards like the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosure.
Hankook Tire said its ESG strategy revolves around three key pillars: Eco Value Chain, Sustainable Products, and Responsible Engagement. These guide the company’s efforts to embed sustainability throughout its value chain.
Addressing Eight Major Management Issues
The Hankook ESG Report outlines eight material ESG topics:
- Climate change mitigation;
- Energy efficiency;
- Hazardous and chemical substance management;
- Resource circulation;
- Worker health and safety;
- Respect for human rights;
- Supply chain ESG risk;
- R&D and innovation.
The company said it has created a cross-functional committee to respond to the European Union Deforestation Regulation. It manages natural rubber supply chain risks through new oversight systems, including regular monitoring and reporting.
Strengthening Internal Systems and ESG Governance
Since 2021, Hankook Tire has operated an ESG Committee under its Board of Directors. The committee supports a defined structure for ESG integration, Hankook said. It advances sustainability goals through board-level leadership.
The company also said it continues to analyze and manage ESG challenges on a regional basis through regular monitoring and risk identification across global sites.
Hankook has made notable progress in transitioning to a circular economy. In partnership with Hyosung Advanced Materials and SK Chemicals, it commercialized Korea’s first tire using chemically recycled PET fiber cords. Additional updates include:
- EV tires using 77% ISCC PLUS-certified sustainable raw materials;
- Three new carbon black types made from waste tire pyrolysis oil, also ISCC PLUS certified.
Hankook Tire said it continues to support climate and marine biodiversity initiatives while fostering human rights and local community engagement. The company first established a CSR group in 2009, followed by ESG Strategy and Steering Committees in 2010. It introduced its sustainable natural rubber policy in 2018 and launched its eco-friendly circular economy strategy, E.Circle.
Accessing the 2024/25 ESG Report
The 2024/25 Hankook ESG Report is available as an interactive PDF, designed for desktop and mobile access. It can be downloaded from the ESG page on Hankook Tire’s global website.
