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Did you know that 85% of natural rubber is produced by 6 million smallholders?

Why rubber?

Natural rubber plays a vital role in the economy of many countries as one of the most important commodities supplying industries as diverse as automotive, foot-ware, and construction. However, deforestation, conversion and biodiversity loss are an important and growing issue in rubber production alongside other common sustainability concerns such as poor working conditions, rising inequality, and land grabbing.

Economic importance: Natural rubber generates over $300 billion annually and supports 40 million people, showcasing its significant role in the global economy.
Sustainability challenges: Production faces serious issues like deforestation, biodiversity loss, and adverse social impacts.
Regional concerns: In Southeast Asia, countries like Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand are experiencing growing concerns over rubber production practices.
Traceability issues: More than 90% of natural rubber is produced by independent smallholders, complicating efforts to ensure sustainable and ethical supply chains.

What are the challenges?

The natural rubber industry, crucial for global economies, faces significant challenges: environmental degradation, poor labor conditions, and a complex, opaque supply chain. Market fluctuations impact smallholder incomes, contributing to deforestation and biodiversity loss. Addressing these requires implementing sustainable practices, ensuring fair wages, and improving working conditions for the millions of smallholders involved.

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Thai smallholders use new technology for sustainable rubber and transparent supply chains

An App designed by Agriac allows the rubber farmers to pool their crops, thereby increasing their capacity to deliver larger orders, strengthen their negotiating power and enable them to cut out expensive middlemen. 

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30 years of impact

Creating sustainable impact is at the heart of our mission.

People

850,000+

farmers, workers and land managers are assured that their well-being, human rights and cultural heritage are protected.

Nature

32.6 million

hectares of land where nature and environment are protected from degradation and conversion through use of sustainability standards.

Climate

32,000+

tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, thus lowering the climate impact.

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Explore other focus areas

Biomass

Biomass is essential for sustainable development, reducing carbon emissions, and providing renewable energy. Its growing utilisation highlights its importance in combating climate change and promoting sustainable practices across various industries.

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Cattle

While vital for food security, cattle also contribute to deforestation and climate change. Focused efforts are needed to promote sustainable practices that enhance biodiversity, soil health and the well-being of people and animals.

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Climate

Addressing climate change is urgent for sustainable development. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions emissions through innovative strategies is essential to mitigate its impact.

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Cocoa

Cocoa farming impacts the environment, economy and climate globally. Sustainable practices such as agroforestry can mitigate its negative effects, making cocoa relevant for climate change mitigation.

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Coffee

Balancing economic sustainability with responsible production practices is crucial in the coffee industry. Adapting to climate change while meeting rising global demand is essential for sustainable coffee production.

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Ecosystems

Revitalising ecosystems is crucial for our planet’s health and preservation. Combating deforestation and degradation with sustainable practices ensures long-term recovery.

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Palm Oil

Palm oil production supports economies but raises environmental and social concerns. Sustainable practices are crucial to address issues such as deforestation and labour rights.

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Rice

Rice production significantly impacts climate and nature. Addressing emissions, water usage and deforestation in rice farming can lead to positive environmental changes.

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Rubber

Natural rubber is essential for industries but contributes to deforestation and biodiversity loss. Addressing sustainability concerns such as poor working conditions is crucial in rubber production.

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Soy

Soy plays a vital role in global food security and biofuel production. Emphasising sustainable growth is essential to address environmental challenges in soy farming.

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Timber

Timber's global impacts on people, nature and climate require sustainable management. Forests are essential for biodiversity as well as soil and water conservation.

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Travel

The travel industry's sustainability intersects with environmental conservation and cultural preservation. Responsible consumption and support for local communities are crucial for sustainable travel.

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Other

Our mission extends beyond these focus areas to any crop or product with potential for sustainable impact. We support conservation and ecosystem restoration projects worldwide and help businesses adapt to changing regulations.

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We work with businesses on all aspects of their sustainability journey

Certification

Strengthen your organisation’s commitment to sustainability, showcasing impactful business transformations.

Tailored services

With over 30 years of experience in sustainability, our experts can support you in enhancing your sustainability journey.

Expert courses

Engage in impactful training experiences through our programmes, project-specific sessions, or bespoke courses upon request.
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Do you want to support our efforts to create a better world?

Small steps lead to a big change and all contributions are valuable.

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