Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR)

The Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) is an international, multi-stakeholder, voluntary membership organization dedicated to transforming the natural rubber supply chain into a sustainable, equitable, and fair one. Established in 2018, GPSNR brings together companies, smallholders, academia, and civil society to address the socioeconomic and environmental challenges associated with natural rubber production. Mission and VisionGPSNR's mission is to lead improvements in the socioeconomic and environmental performance of the natural rubber value chain. The organization envisions a world where natural rubber is produced sustainably, benefiting all stakeholders involved, from smallholder farmers to large corporations. Governance and StructureGPSNR is governed by a General Assembly and an Executive Committee elected by its members. The platform operates through various working groups and task forces focused on key areas such as assurance, shared responsibility, smallholder representation, and capacity building. Key Initiatives and Activities- Assurance Model: GPSNR has developed an assurance model based on a risk-based approach to improve compliance across the supply chain. This model includes protocols for due diligence, supply chain mapping, risk assessment, and remediation. - Shared Responsibility Framework: This framework outlines how companies will make annual financial and in-kind contributions to long-term capacity building for natural rubber smallholders. It aims to ensure that the benefits of sustainable practices are shared equitably among all stakeholders. - Smallholder Representation and Capacity Building: GPSNR works on various projects to support smallholders, including income diversification, rubber agroforestry, and digital knowledge-sharing platforms. These initiatives are designed to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices. - Tools and Guidance: The platform provides operational guidance, legal frameworks, and risk assessment tools to help members implement sustainable practices. This includes manuals, glossaries, and national risk assessments tailored to specific countries. Achievements and MilestonesSince its inception, GPSNR has made significant progress in promoting sustainable natural rubber. Some key milestones include: - Finalizing an assurance model that guides members through a stage-based process to commit to, implement, and verify sustainability practices. - Approving a Shared Investment Framework to support capacity building for smallholders. - Developing a Shared Responsibility Framework to ensure equitable distribution of benefits across the supply chain. Future GoalsGPSNR continues to work towards a sustainable, equitable, and fair natural rubber value chain. The organization is focused on expanding its initiatives, improving compliance, and enhancing the socioeconomic and environmental performance of the natural rubber industry. By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, GPSNR aims to create a more sustainable future for natural rubber production, ensuring that the industry can thrive while protecting the environment and supporting the communities that depend on it.