Bridgestone India has committed to adopt and support one lakh smallholder rubber farmers in the Idukki and Kottayam districts of Kerala, courtesy of ‘UNNATI – a Sustainable Natural Rubber Initiative.’ Bridgestone has launched this initiative in collaboration with Netherlands-based NGO Solidaridad. The program aims to promote a sustainable supply chain of natural rubber among the adopted rubber farmers over 4.5 years. The program also entails sustainable practices, community development, capacity building, and research and development. Bridgestone further claims project UNNATI is also aligned with the guidelines of the Rubber Board of India. The project will be spearheaded by the Solidaridad Regional Expertise Centre (SREC) India.
Sharing his thoughts on the matter, Stefano Sanchini, Managing Director, Bridgestone India said, “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.”
To this, Monica Khanna, Country Manager, SREC India added, ‘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.’