GPSNR Launches Sustainable Rubber Assurance System

The Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR) has introduced its new Assurance System, a significant milestone in advancing sustainability across the natural rubber supply chain. Developed through extensive collaboration among GPSNR's Singapore-based members – including smallholders, producers, traders, tyre makers, automakers and NGOs – the system aims to tackle critical issues like deforestation, biodiversity decline, labour rights violations and human rights concerns.

The framework enables companies to align with GPSNR’s sustainability standards, evaluate supply chain risks, undergo independent verification and disclose progress transparently. A key innovation is its risk-based approach, which adjusts oversight based on the severity of environmental or social risks in specific regions or operations, optimising resource allocation. GPSNR also provides tailored tools and guidance to help members implement the system effectively, fostering accountability and improved practices industry-wide.

Stefano Savi, CEO, GPSNR, said, “This is more than a milestone for GPSNR. It is a pivotal moment for the entire natural rubber industry. With our organisational design finalised and both Shared Investment and Risk-Based Assurance in place, we’re ready to move into implementation. I look forward to the impact this will have on smallholder livelihoods, the environment and supply chain resilience.”

Enviro Signs LOI For Pyrolysis Technology Licensing In North America

Enviro Signs LOI For Pyrolysis Technology Licensing In North America

Scandinavian Enviro Systems AB publ has signed a letter of intent with an undisclosed partner to explore the possibility of licensing its advanced tyre pyrolysis technology for deployment in North America.

The collaboration will focus on conducting a comprehensive feasibility study to evaluate the technical and commercial viability of establishing one or multiple facilities dedicated to processing end-of-life tyres using Enviro’s proprietary method. This study is designed to provide the potential licensee with the necessary insights to assess the prospects of entering into a long-term commercial arrangement and formal technology licensing agreement.

It is important to note that any definitive agreements will depend entirely on the study's outcomes and subsequent negotiations. At this stage, there is no guarantee that the evaluation will lead to binding commitments or that the proposed transaction will ultimately materialise.

Fredrik Aaben, CEO, Scandinavian Enviro Systems, said, “We continue to see strong international interest in Enviro’s technology, and this letter of intent is yet another proof of this.”

Kraton Corporation Announces Price Hike For Polymer Products

Kraton Corporation Announces Price Hike For Polymer Products

Kraton Corporation, a leading global producer of speciality polymers and high-value bio-based chemicals derived from pine wood pulping co-products, a global price increase for all polymer products with effect from 1 April 2026. The price hike will range from USD 440 per MT to USD 700 per MT, or as individual contract terms permit, with the exact price change varying according to the polymer type and production location.

The driving forces behind these significant pricing actions are multifaceted, rooted in substantial disruptions to global supply chains. These disruptions are largely attributed to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has had a cascading effect on logistics. Compounding this issue are the sharply rising costs associated with transportation and essential raw materials.

LANXESS Announces Price Hike For Rubber Additives

LANXESS Announces Price Hike For Rubber Additives

German specialty chemicals company LANXESS has announced a global price increase for its portfolio of functional additives for the manufacture of tyres and speciality rubbers. These changes, which are set to take effect immediately or as soon as individual contract terms permit, will see prices rise by 15 to 50 percent.

The driving forces behind these significant pricing actions are multifaceted, rooted in substantial disruptions to global supply chains. These disruptions are largely attributed to the ongoing geopolitical conflict, which has had a cascading effect on logistics. Compounding this issue are the sharply rising costs associated with transportation and essential raw materials.

Orion S.A. Announces Price Hike For Speciality Carbon Black

Orion S.A. Announces Price Hike For Speciality Carbon Black

Orion S.A., a global speciality chemicals company, has announced a global price increase for its portfolio of speciality carbon black. These changes, which are set to take effect immediately or as soon as individual contract terms permit, will see prices rise by up to 25 percent.

In a strategic move to address persistent market volatility, the company is also implementing a variable surcharge on top of the base price increase. The driving forces behind these significant pricing actions are multifaceted, rooted in substantial disruptions to global supply chains. These disruptions are largely attributed to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has had a cascading effect on logistics. Compounding this issue are the sharply rising costs associated with transportation and essential raw materials.