BKT Joins Global Initiative for Sustainable Natural Rubber

BKT, a leading manufacturer of off-highway tires, has recently joined the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR), marking a significant step in its commitment to fostering sustainable practices and environmentally friendly production methods aligned with GPSNR principles. The decision underscores BKT's recognition of the opportunities and challenges within the natural rubber industry. Although the expansion of rubber plantations can affect tropical forests, BKT asserts that adopting sustainable practices can lessen these impacts, preserve biodiversity, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

GPSNR serves as a collaborative platform that unites natural rubber producers, traders, tire manufacturers, NGOs, academic institutions, and other industry stakeholders. Together, they address critical issues and promote sustainable solutions across the supply chain. By becoming a member of GPSNR, BKT is aligning its natural rubber sourcing practices with the organization's rigorous sustainability guidelines. This membership not only provides BKT with access to standardized sustainability reporting but also offers digital tools for compliance with regulations like the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), set to take effect in December 2024.

The principles underpinning GPSNR resonate deeply with BKT's own Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policies. This strategic alignment empowers BKT to enhance its digital tracking systems for the sustainable sourcing of natural rubber, adhering to globally recognized standards. It also signifies BKT's commitment to expanding its sustainability initiatives, with a focused effort to drive structural improvements and enhance the quality of its natural rubber supply chain over the next five years.

In pursuit of its sustainability goals, BKT has collaborated closely with governmental bodies such as India's Rubber Board and the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association of India. These partnerships, along with engagements with key global players in the natural rubber industry, bolster BKT's mission to advance sustainable practices throughout its operations.

Membership in GPSNR further enables BKT to establish direct relationships with premium natural rubber suppliers worldwide, crucial for maintaining its high standards of product quality. This deliberate strategic move supports BKT's growth ambitions while facilitating the pursuit of elevated levels of sustainable production.

By joining GPSNR, BKT not only reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development but also positions itself as a proactive participant in shaping the future of the natural rubber industry towards greater sustainability and resilience in the face of global challenges.

For more than three decades, BKT has been at the forefront of designing and producing safe, innovative, and high-performance tires tailored for specialized sectors such as agriculture, construction, earthmoving, ports, and mining. BKT's commitment to pioneering technology and relentless pursuit of excellence has positioned it as the preferred partner for industries operating in the most demanding environments worldwide. With distribution partners spanning over 160 countries across five continents, BKT takes pride in serving a diverse and global customer base.