BKT is well-known as an off-highway tire manufacturer and they have recently become a member of the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR). After doing this, the company stated that the membership emphasises their ‘commitment to promoting long-term sustainable practices and environmentally friendly production in line with GPSNR principles.’

The GPSNR is famous for acting as an opportunity to bring natural rubber producers, traders, tire manufacturers, non-governmental organisations, academic institutions, and finally, other industry partners together. Once these sectors have been put in contact, they are able to focus on issues within the industry and they can also promote sustainable solutions.

This is one of the reasons why BKT has now joined the platform, as natural rubber production presents a multitude of opportunities for environmental and social improvements. There are some concerns surrounding this technique, such as the issues it presents to tropical forests, however there is currently a lot of work and sustainable practises being carried out to help protect biodiversity, whilst simultaneously working on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Through joining the GPSNR, BKT highlights the process they are currently going through, in order to ensure their natural rubber supply chain aligns with the organisation’s guidelines.

Joint MD of BKT, Rajiv Poddar, commented, “The principles on which GPSNR is based align with our ESG policy. This membership allows us to develop and align our digital tracking initiative for the sustainable sourcing of natural rubber according to internationally accepted principles. It also enables us to expand our sustainability initiatives, aiming to accelerate both structural and quality changes in our natural rubber supply chain over the next five years.”

Poddar continued, “Being a member of GPSNR means we have direct contact with suppliers of premium natural rubber worldwide, which is crucial for maintaining our high-quality standards. This strategic and conscious choice supports our growth ambitions and allows us to pursue higher levels of sustainable production.”