Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) MEMBER
Being a member of the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) signifies a commitment to transforming the natural rubber supply chain into a more sustainable, equitable, and fair system. GPSNR is a multi-stakeholder, voluntary membership organization that includes companies, smallholders, academia, and civil society.
What It Means to Be a GPSNR Member
Membership in GPSNR involves adhering to a set of principles and standards aimed at improving the social, environmental, and economic sustainability of the natural rubber value chain. Members are expected to:
- Commit to Sustainability: Members must integrate sustainability practices into their operations, including responsible sourcing, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring fair labor practices.
- Participate in Governance: Members are involved in the governance of GPSNR through the General Assembly and various working groups and task forces. This collaborative approach ensures that all stakeholders have a voice in decision-making processes.
- Adhere to Codes and Policies: Members must follow the GPSNR Statutes and Code of Conduct, which include a set of 12 principles outlined in the Founding Members Statement. These principles cover areas such as human rights, environmental protection, and transparency.
Activities and Contributions
GPSNR members engage in various activities to promote sustainability, including:
- Supply Chain Mapping and Risk Assessment: Members work on mapping the supply chain and assessing risks to identify areas for improvement.
- Capacity Building: Members contribute to capacity-building initiatives for smallholders, helping them adopt sustainable practices and improve their livelihoods.
- Shared Responsibility Framework: This framework outlines how members share the responsibility for sustainability, including financial and in-kind contributions to long-term projects².
Sustainability Efforts
Sustainability is at the core of GPSNR's mission. Members are involved in several initiatives to ensure the sustainability of the natural rubber supply chain:
- Environmental Protection: Members implement practices to reduce deforestation, conserve biodiversity, and minimize carbon footprints.
- Social Responsibility: Ensuring fair labor practices, improving working conditions, and supporting local communities are key aspects of members' commitments.
- Economic Viability: Members work towards creating a more resilient and economically viable natural rubber industry by supporting smallholders and promoting fair trade practices.
Benefits of Membership
Being a member of GPSNR offers several benefits:
- Collaboration and Networking: Members have the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of stakeholders, including industry leaders, NGOs, and academic institutions.
- Access to Resources: Members gain access to tools, guidance, and best practices for implementing sustainable practices in their operations.
- Influence and Advocacy: Members can influence global standards and policies related to natural rubber, advocating for a more sustainable industry.
In summary, being a member of the Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber means committing to a shared vision of sustainability, participating in collaborative governance, and actively contributing to initiatives that promote environmental, social, and economic sustainability in the natural rubber supply chain.