MILAN, Italy—Off-highway tire manufacturer Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) has joined the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR), an organization of natural rubber producers, traders, tire manufacturers, nongovernmental organizations, academic institutions and other industry partners.
According to BKT, the GPSNR promotes long-term sustainable practices, culminating in a more environmentally conscious and friendly production in line with its principles.
BKT said natural rubber production can be improved both environmentally and socially. The company said the expansion of rubber plantations may influence tropical forests, but by practicing sustainability, biodiversity can be preserved and greenhouse gas emissions reduced.
In addition, the group aims to promote improved conditions and rights for rubber plantation workers.
BKT said its membership in the organization aligns with its commitment to the natural rubber supply chain while providing access to a platform that standardizes manufacturers' sustainability reporting and digital platforms for compliance with the requirements of the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which becomes effective this December.
Rajiv Poddar, joint managing director of BKT, said the GPSNR aligns with BKT's ESG policy and its "digital tracking initiative for the sustainable sourcing of natural rubber in accordance with internationally accepted principles."
He said the group also helps BKT "sustain and expand our sustainability initiatives aiming at accelerating both structural and quality changes in our natural rubber supply chain over the next five years."
BKT said it is working with several Indian government agencies, including the Rubber Board and Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association of India, as well as some of the leading stakeholders in the natural rubber industry.
Poddar said as a GPSNR member, BKT will have have a direct contact with suppliers of premium natural rubber across the world, "crucial for a company like ours that has always focused on high quality standards. This is a both strategic and conscious choice that supports our growth ambitions and allows us to pursue ever higher levels in sustainable production."
