European tyre makers have until the end of 2008 to phase out use in the manufacturing process of oils which can release carcinogens into the atmosphere.
The European Commission has adopted a proposal restricting marketing and use of certain "extender oils" which are added to give tyres extra grip on wet roads. The oils can contain high levels of cancer-causing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) which remain in the finished product and can be released into the air by burning or during general wear.
In November the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment concluded that PAHs were "likely carcinogens for man" which could be released into the atmosphere by tyres wearing out on the roads.
Harmful PAHs are also found in air containing cigarette smoke, wood smoke or vehicle exhausts. They are also found in burnt food.
Tyre makers are working towards an alternative to the toxic oils. However they say it will be the end of 2009 before they are ready.
The directive, if made law, would apply to cars, trucks and motorbikes, but racing cars have until January 2012 to comply.
