NATURAL RUBBER

Natural rubber is a stretchy, durable material made from the latex sap of rubber trees, primarily the Hevea brasiliensis species. Farmers tap these trees to collect the sap, which is then processed into rubber.

The latex is collected by tapping the trees and then processed into a solid form.

It's known for being stretchy, strong, and biodegradable. It's eco-friendly because it comes from renewable trees and supports local communities.

RUBBER TREE

Once a rubber tree is planted, it takes about 7 years before it can be tapped for rubber. However, once it starts, it can continue to be harvested for another 30-40 years! When the rubber tree reaches the end of its lifespan, it's cut down, and a new tree is planted in its place. More trees mean more carbon dioxide is absorbed, benefiting the environment. Rubber plantations have a significant positive impact on the environment. By absorbing carbon dioxide, they help mitigate climate change.

RUBBERWOOD

Rubberwood comes from rubber trees, specifically the Hevea Brasiliensis species - the same trees that give us natural rubber. Once these trees stop producing latex, usually after about 25-30 years, they are harvested for their wood. This makes rubberwood a highly sustainable and eco friendly material because it utilizes trees that would otherwise be wasted.

It's a strong and sturdy wood, and with its light color and fine grain, rubberwood is visually appealing and fits well with various interior designs. That is why we uses it to our stools and storage shelves.

RUBBER PLANTATION

Our rubber plantations are not just about rubber trees. The owners are incorporating diverse plant species, integrating other crops and maintaining natural vegetation to support richer biodiversity. This approach enhances ecosystem health, improves soil quality, and keeps pests in check, creating a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system. dditionally, well-managed rubber plantations as our partners ones prevent soil erosion, enhance water retention, and improve overall ecosystem health. Sustainable practices like agroforestry and intercropping amplify these benefits even more.

Local Farmers

Supporting local farmers are the backbone of rubber harvesting. They rely on this sustainable income to support their families. Even during global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, these farmers, often the most vulnerable, were able to sustain their livelihoods through natural rubber cultivation. This steady income helps keep their communities alive throughout these tough times.

Economic & Social Benefits

Rubber plantations bring numerous economic and social benefits. They create jobs for local communities, from planting and maintenance to harvesting and processing. This steady source of income improves living standards and provides financial security for rural families. Moreover, the development of rubber plantations often leads to better infrastructure, such as roads and schools, contributing to overall community development. So by supporting buying our products you too make greener fingerprints by supporting a positive impact industry.

RUBBER TAPPING

Natural rubber tapping is a skilled process that requires precision and care to ensure the health of the trees and the quality of the latex extracted. Proper techniques and sustainable practices are essential for the long-term viability of rubber production. Tapping is often done in the early morning when the latex flow is most vigorous.

The process of natural rubber tapping involves extracting latex from rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis):

THE TREE:

Only mature trees, typically around 5-7 years old and with a trunk circumference of at least 50 cm, are tapped.

TOOLS:

The primary tool used is a tapping knife, which is specifically designed to make precise incisions without damaging the tree. Care is taken to cut just deep enough to reach the latex vessels, avoiding the tree’s cambium layer to prevent damage.

TAPPING PANEL:

A section of the tree’s bark, known as the tapping panel, is selected. This panel is usually located about 1 meter above the ground. Trees are tapped on a regular schedule, often every two to three days, to allow them to recover between tappings.

INCISION:

A shallow, diagonal cut is made into the bark, reaching the latex vessels without cutting too deeply into the tree. The latex, a milky white fluid, flows out of the incision and is directed into the collection cup. The flow usually lasts for a few hours.