Tyre company Bridgestone India to support 1,00,000 rubber farmers in Kerala

In collaboration with the Netherlands-based NGO Solidaridad, Bridgestone India launched "UNNATI – a Sustainable Natural Rubber Initiative," a visionary project aimed at driving positive change within the rubber industry.

The initiative aims to promote a sustainable supply chain of natural rubber while enhancing the livelihoods of 5,000 smallholder rubber farmers. Moreover, it seeks to build capacities for 95,000 smallholder farmers in better rubber cultivation over a span of 4.5 years, commencing from 1st October 2022.

The programme will involve various elements, including sustainable practices, community development, capacity building and Research and development.

"We are excited to partner with the smallholder farmers to facilitate mutual learning that would help elevate their practices, enhance the quality of rubber production, thereby improving livelihoods and contributing to the growth of the local economy. This initiative is born from our commitment to the environment and communities we serve, and we look forward to further seeing the improvement it brings." said Stefano Sanchini, Managing Director Bridgestone India.

The project is aligned with the guidelines of Rubber Board of India’s essential topics such as field establishment, nutrient management, pest and disease control, latex harvest technology, wastewater management, and occupational health and safety.

The implementation of Project Unnati will be spearheaded by Solidaridad Regional Expertise Centre (SREC), a registered not-for-profit trust.

"We are excited to partner with Bridgestone India on this transformative initiative," Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to build capacities, improve livelihoods, and create lasting positive impact for rubber farmers in Kerala, said Monica Khanna, Country Manager, India SREC. Solidaridad.”