SEC Rules In Favor of Shareholder Proposal at Goodyear on Tire Wear Shedding Reduction
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEC Rules In Favor of Shareholder Proposal at Goodyear on Tire Wear Shedding Reduction
The proposal urges Goodyear to reduce microplastic pollution from its tires
MEDIA CONTACT: Ryon Harms, ryon@asyousow.org, (310) 579-2188
EL CERRITO, CA—March 7, 2025—The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has determined that shareholder representative As You Sow’s shareholder proposal with Goodyear Tire, which addresses microplastic pollution, should remain on the Company’s proxy.
The SEC’s ruling will give all shareholders the opportunity to vote on the proposal at the Company’s annual general meeting in Q2 2025.
“The science is clear - automobile tires are a growing source of toxic microplastic pollution that harms ecosystems and fish, and may pose danger to human health,” said Conrad MacKerron, Senior Vice President, As You Sow. “Investors have the right to know how Goodyear is addressing these risks and whether the Company is taking meaningful action to mitigate its environmental impact.”
Tire wear particles are a major contributor to global microplastic pollution, accounting for an estimated 78% of microplastic leakage into oceans. Each year, six million tons of these particles—which contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals—are released globally. Studies indicate that tire wear emissions not only pollute waterways through road runoff but also become airborne, where they can be inhaled and pose serious human health risks.
New European Commission emissions standards (Euro 7), currently under development, will be the first to regulate tire emissions. However, there’s no certainty that the company would apply those or similar standards beyond the European market.
The SEC’s decision reinforces the importance of shareholder engagement on environmental and social issues of material importance. This is the first proposal related to the harms of tire shedding and builds on As You Sow’ s long-standing work to reduce corporate plastic pollution.
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About As You Sow
As You Sow is the nation’s leading shareholder advocacy organization, with a 30-year track record of promoting environmental and social corporate responsibility. Its focus areas include climate change, ocean plastics, toxins in the food system, the Rights of Nature, racial justice, and workplace sustainability. Click here to view As You Sow’s shareholder resolution tracker.