Fair Rubber Association
It is a matter of the heart for us: We are very proud to cooperate from the very first beginning with the Fair Rubber Association to fulfil the criteria of fair trade in natural rubber. That’s why also with every bottle sold a fair trade premium goes to the tappers, plantation workers and small farmers to improve their living and working conditions.
Who is the Fair Rubber Association?
The Fair Rubber Association is dedicated to improving the working and living conditions of primary rubber producers by applying fair trade principles. The organization also supports environmentally friendly production of natural, chemical-free rubber. Through its initiatives, the Fair Rubber Association raises awareness of the challenges in rubber production and works to transform the manufacturing process.
What is natural rubber?
Natural rubber is harvested from the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). The tree’s bark is tapped, allowing the milky latex to flow out. This latex is then processed in various ways depending on its intended use. Around 70% of natural rubber is used for tire production. Other products include mattresses, condoms, household gloves, shoe soles, rubber boots, hot water bottles, and seals. Natural rubber can partially be replaced by synthetic rubber, which is derived from petroleum. Many products use both natural and synthetic rubber.
What are the main problems with natural rubber production?
Unfortunately, the production of natural rubber is often associated with serious environmental and social issues. Low global market prices make it difficult for producers to make a living. Studies show poor working conditions, including inadequate safety standards, improper use of toxic chemicals, child labor, discrimination, and persistent overwork. Moreover, agricultural chemicals not only leave residues in rubber products but also pose health risks to those who harvest and process the rubber.
What is fair trade natural rubber?
Low global market prices and poor working conditions make it difficult for rubber tappers, plantation workers, and smallholders to support their families. This is where the Fair Rubber Association steps in. By paying a fair trade premium to primary producers, they ensure that production costs are covered even when market prices are low. Additionally, the producers receive a surplus, allowing them to improve their living and working conditions. The decision on how to use the fair trade premium remains in the hands of the producers.
The criteria for fair trade rubber closely follow the standards of the Fairtrade Labeling Organizations (FLO) International. Rubber plantations are structurally very similar to tea plantations; in countries like India and Sri Lanka, rubber and tea plantations are often run by the same operators. Additionally, workers on these plantations often belong to the same trade unions.
Environmental protection is also a priority: The Fair Rubber criteria include standards that align with those of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Most of our supply partners are also FSC-certified, with the Fair Rubber Association partially funding the audit costs.
Through our partnership with the Fair Rubber Association, we actively support the fair and sustainable production of natural rubber. With every hot water bottle you purchase from Foundly, you not only support our commitment to design and comfort but also the improvement of living and working conditions for rubber producers.
For more infos visit: https://fairrubber.org
