Network Natural Rubber

Natural rubber is particularly important for the automotive sector. 70 % of natural rubber is used for tire production, another 10 % for other vehicle parts. Due to the substitutability of natural rubber by synthetic rubber, increasing demand for natural rubber can be expected in the event of a shortage and price increase of crude oil. However, the areas under cultivation for natural rubber are limited.

If the consumption of the raw material increases, it can be assumed that deforestation, loss of forests and the associated loss of biodiversity will occur. This could also result in the loss of land that could potentially be used for food (competition for land). Social consequences are also conceivable. Due to currently low prices for natural rubber, cultivation yields little and is less interesting for investors than palm oil, for example. However, should prices rise, an expansion of large plantations is to be expected, which could have social and ecological consequences. The “Network Natural Rubber” is intended to serve as a contact partner and intermediary to bring together interested parties from society and companies.

Project Objective

The project aims to link actors from industry, standard organizations, NGOs, science and politics more closely with each other. A total of four round tables on various aspects of the sustainability of natural rubber is intended to stimulate a dialogue between society, companies and experts, resulting in common goals and discussions on sustainable natural rubber. It is important that the views of producer countries and civil society are also given greater prominence.

Another important goal of the project is to inform the public about the opportunities and problems that arise when natural rubber is cultivated sustainably or unsustainably. This is intended to stimulate the consumption of sustainably produced natural rubber, which in turn motivates companies to pay greater attention to sustainability aspects in procurement. The project confronts companies more intensively with their responsibility for their own supply chains.

Target Groups

Companies that are already committed, interested in sustainably cultivated natural rubber and looking for ways to expand this commitment.
Smaller rubber processing companies that are not yet interested in sustainable natural rubber and who lack ideas or opportunities to use sustainable commitment for public relations or marketing.