How Akron Is Reinventing Itself as the Polymer Capital of the World

For decades, Akron was known around the globe as the “Rubber Capital of the World.” Companies like Goodyear, Firestone, and General Tire built an industrial powerhouse that shaped not only the city, but the entire American manufacturing economy.

Now, according to Shammas Malik, Akron is entering its next chapter — one focused on polymers, sustainability, innovation, and workforce development.

Appearing on the podcast Sustainably Speaking, Mayor Malik outlined how Akron is leveraging its industrial roots to become a global hub for advanced materials and sustainable manufacturing.

From Rubber Capital to Polymer Innovation Hub

Mayor Malik explained that Akron’s identity has always been tied to manufacturing and materials science.

What started as a canal town evolved into the center of the tire industry during the early 20th century. At one point, businesses involved in rubber manufacturing needed a presence in Akron to compete globally.

That legacy still matters today.

The city now has one of the highest concentrations of polymer companies in the world, along with major research institutions like The University of Akron and Case Western Reserve University helping drive innovation forward.

Instead of simply preserving the past, Akron is building on it.

“We want to be the best in the world at sustainable polymers and advanced materials,” Malik said during the interview.

Building the “In-Between Space” for Startups

One of the biggest initiatives Mayor Malik discussed is a new polymer pilot facility designed to help startups and smaller companies scale their ideas.

The goal is simple: reduce the barriers to innovation.

Rather than forcing companies to build expensive facilities or purchase specialized machinery before proving their concept works, the pilot space will allow businesses to test and scale products using shared equipment.

Mayor Malik described the facility as a critical missing piece between university research and commercial manufacturing.

The hope is that Akron can become a launchpad for next-generation materials companies while creating jobs across multiple education levels — from high school graduates to PhDs.

Teaching Third Graders About Polymers Through Musical Theater

One of the most unique parts of the conversation centered on Akron’s effort to introduce STEM education early — and creatively.

Through a partnership involving Akron Public Schools and community organizations, every third grader in the district will participate in a new educational experience called Once Upon a Polymer at Weathervane Playhouse.

The program teaches students about polymers through musical theater, lighting, costumes, and stage production.

Students learn how polymers appear in everyday life — from polyester costumes to colored lighting gels — while engaging with science in a hands-on environment.

Mayor Malik emphasized that programs like this are designed to make STEM feel accessible to everyone, especially students who may not initially see themselves pursuing science or engineering careers.

Akron’s Push to Improve Recycling

The conversation also touched on sustainability and recycling challenges.

Mayor Malik acknowledged that recycling systems are often complicated, especially when contamination becomes an issue. He shared a personal example, admitting he once incorrectly placed plastic bags into recycling bins thinking they were recyclable.

Akron responded by launching its “Recycle Right” campaign in partnership with community organizations like Keep Akron Beautiful.

According to Malik, the city significantly reduced contamination rates, improving both the effectiveness and financial sustainability of the recycling program.

The city has also expanded glass recycling through drop-off locations across Akron, though curbside glass recycling remains difficult due to breakage and contamination concerns.

The LeBron James Effect

No conversation about Akron feels complete without mentioning LeBron James.

Mayor Malik described the basketball superstar’s impact as both inspirational and practical.

Growing up in Akron while watching one of the world’s greatest athletes emerge from the same city created a powerful sense of possibility for local residents.

But Malik also highlighted the broader community investments tied to LeBron’s work, including the I PROMISE School, House Three Thirty, healthcare initiatives, and housing partnerships.

Rather than tackling one issue at a time, Malik praised the holistic approach focused on education, health, housing, and opportunity together.

A Vision for Akron’s Future

Throughout the interview, Mayor Malik repeatedly returned to one idea: helping young people discover their talents and opportunities.

He compared Akron’s youth to LeBron James, saying every child has the potential to become world-class at something.

For Malik, the future of Akron isn’t just about manufacturing or economic development. It’s about creating an environment where innovation, education, sustainability, and community all work together.

The city that once defined the rubber industry is now trying to define the future of sustainable materials — and Akron leaders believe the next generation may already be learning about it in third grade musical theater.