One of Southern Illinois’ largest employers has reached a major milestone. Continental’s tire plant in Mount Vernon has become the company’s first U.S. facility to receive the internationally recognized ISCC PLUS sustainability certification—placing the plant among the most environmentally advanced manufacturing sites in the world.
The certification confirms that Continental is now fully documenting and tracking its use of recycled and renewable raw materials at the Mount Vernon facility, supporting the company’s global goal of producing tires made with at least 40% sustainable materials by 2030.
Plant head Nik Pearce praised the achievement, crediting the efforts of the facility’s 3,900 employees. “This certification shows our commitment to cleaner, more sustainable production and highlights the dedication of everyone here,” Pearce said.
Producing more than 11 million tires annually, the Mount Vernon plant now joins Continental’s certified locations in Europe and Asia. The certification will help expand the company’s use of materials such as recycled rubber, bio-based carbon black, and derivatives of used cooking oil.
For Southern Illinois, the milestone underscores Continental’s long-term investment in the region and positions Mount Vernon as a national leader in sustainable manufacturing.