The Indian Rubber Board recently launched Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber (iSNR) initiative in Kottayam, Kerala which aligns with global sustainability standards and the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
The ceremony was inaugurated by George Kurian, Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Minority Affairs and presided over by Thiruvanchur Radhakishnan Radhakrishnan, Member of the Legislative Assembly. Other dignitaries, included G. Anil Kumar (Vice Chairman, Rubber Board) and N. Hari (Member, Rubber Board).
During the launch, Kurian shared that the state government intends to gradually increase subsidies for natural rubber cultivation, with an aim to engage with all stakeholders, including farmers, to foster sectoral growth, reported The Hindu Businessline.
The iSNR initiative is designed to ensure that rubber products are sourced sustainably without involving deforestation. The platform issues a traceability certificate that verifies the origin of rubber products and confirms its compliance with the EUDR, making it easier for stakeholders in the rubber supply chain, especially those targeting EU markets, to comply with the regulation.
Additionally, the INR Konnect platform was also launched during the event. INR Konnect is a web based platform that aims to connect rubber growers with interested adopters to boost plantation productivity. The Rubber Board plans to certify all participants and provide training on production management and sustainable practices. The platform will also provide a comprehensive database of certified tappers, revealed The Hindu Businessline.
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The Sustainability Challenge
According to a ScienceDirect study, over 99% of the latex for rubber production is derived from the Hevea brasiliensis tree, or the aptly named rubber tree. This natural rubber is used globally in various products. Due to its high consumption, India is the world's fifth-largest producer and second-largest consumer of natural rubber, with Kerala contributing to 74% of the nation’s output, reported TOI.
While synthetic rubber, made from petroleum, causes environmental issues, natural rubber production also involves sustainability issues including the release of carbon dioxide during production, which contributes to global warming.
The iSNR initiative addresses these challenges by promoting responsible rubber farming practices that prevent deforestation and preserve ecosystems. By encouraging sustainable production and offering traceability and certification, iSNR aims to improve the environmental footprint of the rubber industry.
With inputs from PTI
