By Dr Sunil E Fernando

The natural rubber tree converts a greenhouse gas to a hydrocarbon. It is also capable of delivering it in commercially viable quantities almost on a daily basis, unlike any other. In addition, it retains some carbohydrates produced over a 30-year period, as medium density hardwood. This natural process of the biosynthesis of two products not only sustains the farmer, but also reduces the impact on global warming to some extent due to carbon dioxide extraction. Thus, preserving existing rubber plantations and cultivating more, especially in marginal lands, will help to mitigate an imbalance created due to the production of excessive quantities of a greenhouse gas

Benefits of Growing Rubber: Hevea brasiliensis or the rubber tree began its epic journey in 1875, when Sir Henry Wickham brought 70,000 seeds from Rio Tapajos in the upper Amazon to Kew gardens in London. Of these, 1911 seedlings were planted in Gampaha botanical gardens, Sri Lanka, initiating an agricultural revolution in South East Asia and an industrial revolution globally. Apart from giving 14 million tons of Natural Rubber (NR) consumed annually worldwide, the tree has other attributes listed below.

 Extracting 24.9 kilograms of Carbon dioxide (CO2) Greenhouse gas (GHG) to produce one Kilogram of latex

 Yielding 2.1 cubic meters/tree of wood from GHG as biomass, every 30-year cycle

 Produce easily biodegradable litter, compared to monocultures like Teak

 Require less chemical fertilisers, water and pesticides

 Retains biodiversity as a tropical plant and co-exists with other species allowing for intercropping

The uniqueness of the rubber tree is its ability to fix CO2 almost instantaneously into a hydrocarbon on a daily basis, with water and energy from sunlight while nature took millions of years converting biomass to a hydrocarbon, Petroleum. The tree is a natural solar panel trapping energy from the Sun, propagating a chemical reaction giving a hydrocarbon, while releasing Oxygen to the atmosphere and accumulating a timber resource. Tapped from year 5, the tree removes a GHG every other day, unlike any other plant species, for 11 months of the year for 25 years.

Why Excess CO2 is bad

CO2 present in the atmosphere is a double-edged sword. "CO2-Earth" reports, its concentration increased from 330 ppm in 1975 to 408.55 in September 2019, and further to 410.27 in November 2019. CO2 absorbs Infrared radiation (heat radiation) from the Sun through molecular vibrations, and emit this energy unlike gases like Nitrogen and Oxygen. Ozone, Methane and Nitrous Oxide are other GHG's, which absorb energy from the sun and similarly emit heat, warming the atmosphere.

However, GHG's maintains atmospheric temperatures without converting Earth into an ice ball. Nevertheless, high concentration of GHG in atmosphere, emit more heat to sustain global warming due to an imbalance created by excessive human activity like burning fuel, rearing of cattle/sheep, giving-off excessive CO2 and Methane, respectively. Two confirmed methods to lower ill effects of GHG are, produce less and increase plant cover.

CO2 is the raw materials for all forms of Carbohydrates, Proteins and Fats produced by plants providing for growth and energy in life forms. What is alarming is the excess CO2 produced, accumulating in the atmosphere, and in Oceans. Dissolved CO2 in seawater, raises temperature and forms Carbonic acid, increasing Ocean acidification. Ocean acidification reduces the ability of sea creatures to fix Calcium as Calcium Carbonate, another form of Carbon sink.

Carbon Dioxide Accumulation Antoine Lavoisier said, in a chemical reaction matter is neither created nor destroyed. Producing GHG through human intervention, new matter is not created but it leads to an unsustainable imbalance of matter in the environment. This is what causes the problem.

Figure 1. Figure 1. Representation of the CO2 Cycle (https://serc.carleton.edu/eslabs/carbon/2a.html)

CO2 is a GHG not only produced by burning fuels and biomass. Humans exhale One Kilogram of it daily. Increase in population does not increase CO2, as exhaled balances out by inhaling. But when human population went up from 1 billion 200 years ago to 7 billion now, increase in human activity led to an imbalance in the atmosphere and the Oceans due to release of CO2 and Methane. Biomass generation too is dwindling due to the population pressure. Thus, this imbalance of accumulating matter capable of absorbing heat is the main reason for global warming.

Biosynthesis of Natural Rubber About 2000 plant species produce NR, but Hevea brasiliensis produce commercially exploitable dispersion in water as latex. The biological reason for NR production is not clear, but it may prevent pathogenic microorganisms entering the tree. Latex is found in horizontally arranged interconnected cells called laticifer, in the bark of the tree, High yielding plantations with about 400 trees per hectare have reported a production of 2500 Kg/NR /Year. The theoretical yield potential is estimated at, 7,000 to 10,000 kg/Ha/Year. A tree giving 15 to 30g of rubber per day, tapping on alternative days yields 2.2-4.5 Kg of NR per year. According to Apollo Vredestein R and D, on average 1.9 Kg of NR goes into a tire and a tree produces enough rubber to make 2 tires per year or 50 in lifetime.

Plants take in CO2 for survival. Some converts part into an edible form, as carbohydrate and fats while the rest is converted to forms like cellulose. These may end up as wood, becoming a Carbon sink for a length of time. In rubber trees, the process extends converting part of CO2 to a rubber hydrocarbon containing Carbon and Hydrogen, more akin to Petroleum. This wonder tree makes a hydrocarbon in few minutes, while nature took millions of years to convert biomass derived from CO2 to Petroleum.

The biosynthetic pathway for NR in Hevea begins with the monomer precursor, Isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP). IPP is an adduct of Pyrophosphoric acid and Isoprene monomer. However, IPP is not an uncommon material, limited to Hevea, but is formed from carbohydrates, in other plants, algae, bacteria, in mammals and humans. The formation of IPP is said to occur by following two pathways; Mevalonate (MVA) or non-mevalonate (non-MVA), deoxy-xylulose pathway. In rubber trees, breakdown products from carbohydrates like Pyruvates and Glyceraldehydes are transformed into IPP, in Cytosol in Cytoplasm/Plastids in plant cells, in several stages in the presence of many enzymes like mevalonate kinase (MVK) and mevalonate diphosphate decarboxylase (MVD). Figure 2.

Figure 2 Representation of the Formation of IPP through MVA and Non-MVA Pathways (Chiang. C. C. K, 2013, PhD Thesis, the Graduate Faculty of the University of Akron).

On isomerisation with enzyme, Isomerase IPP is converted to Dimethyl allyl pyrophosphate (DMPP). IPP and DMPP are building blocks for diverse groups of bio-molecules like Cholesterol, Vitamin K, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and Cis-polyisoprene (NR). Figure 3

Figure 3 Pathway to NR Biosynthesis

In rubber producing Russian dandelion (Taraxacum koksaghyz Rodin), enzyme transformation of sugars enrich NR formation. In the summer months, dandelions produce excess sugars and store it as Inulin. The possibility of metabolic engineering assisted enzyme degradation of Inulin to enhance production of IPP and then to NR has been explored for dandelion. Meanwhile Researchers have succeeded in decoding the Genome sequence in Hevea. This can lead to high yielding rubber clones, by locating genes responsible for biosynthesis of rubber.

Latex with 30% NR and 5% non-rubbers is produced in special cells called laticifers located horizontally and a lateral cut of the bark exposes most number, giving latex. Since the laticifer density is genotype dependant determining latex yield, it can give the direction for biologists as a selection marker for high yielding clones. In older rubber trees chemicals inducing Ethylene formation in the bark-tissue or generated it in situ like 2-Chloroethylphosphonic acid, are used as yield stimulants. Such developments, together with appropriate nutrition infusion, can increase NR yields, making rubber cultivation attractive to farmers.

Chloroethylphosphonic acid

Hevea brasiliensis is a dual-purpose tree, making Carbon sinks from CO2 in two ways, as a hydrocarbon and as wood, extracted in a 30-year cycle. Plants like wheat and rice also fix CO2 to give edible Carbohydrates, often twice a year. Nevertheless, human/animal consumption of edible carbohydrates quickly gives CO2 back to the environment. Thus with respect to environmental benefits, producing NR by growing rubber trees is a more favourable option. Fortunately, rubber cultivation has increased from 9.9 in 1975 to 14.0 million hectares in 2018 giving these benefits worldwide.

Preserving and enhancing rubber cultivation

The rubber farmer does a silent service by extracting latex and thus removing substantial quantity of GHG on a daily basis. As NR based products stay longer in service, Carbon in it remains intact for a longer period without burdening the environment. Each tree has the uncanny ability to function as a tap, working 150 days a year to clean up the environment unlike other plant-based options. It leaves a raw material as timber derived from GHG, extracted in every 30-year cycle giving 50 Kg of wood/tree. The global potential for wood at a replanting rate of 3% of acreage annually is, approx 7.30 Mn Tons/ year.

The environmental benefits can be maximised if the farmer taps the tree every other day for 11 months of the year if their livelihood is secularly safeguarded. Going into alternatives for from existing land is counterproductive to the environment. The negative process will occur only if the farmer finds the daily sustenance by growing rubber becomes a hard task. To encourage the farmer, requires a collective and a concerted effort from:

 Buyers giving stable/reasonable price

 Biologists developing fast growing, high yielding, drought and disease resistant trees

 Cultivation experts developing new and less-laborious extraction techniques and attractive intercropping practices

 Technologists adding value to existing NR products and developing new products

• Chemists by modification to give new elastomeric materials from NR as raw materials for other processes

• Environmentalists by increasing international awareness of the benefits of growing rubber

With respect to increased appreciation of the capability of modified NR forms, an enterprising tire manufacturer uses Epoxidised NR/Silica combination in automobile tire treads, to give higher wet grip and low rolling resistance tires. Such greener tires used in hybrid and electric cars, made these vehicles more environmental friendly. Olefinic elastomers like NR, contains reactive double bonds with potential to be modified as raw materials in many applications. Table 1, Figures 4 and 5. Such developments will give impetus to the sustainability and growth of an industry, benefitting the rubber farmer while fixing more GHG as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ENDS

References:

1. Bhowmik. I (2006), Tripura Rubber Mission Technical Bulletin 2. https://www.co2.earth/

3. Rao. P. S, et.al (1998), Agricultural and Forest Meteorology 3, 90

4. Chiang. C. C. K (2013), Natural rubber biosynthesis, PhD Thesis, The Graduate Faculty of The University of Akron, USA 5. Decoding the rubber tree genome, https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/06/160624100225.htm

 

 

Dr Sunil E Fernando is Former Executive Director, DPL Group, Sri Lanka, Managing Director Dipped Products (Thailand) Limited, Former Director, DPL Plantations and Kelani Valley Plantations Limited, Sri Lanka, and a Consultant - Latex Products

A new bio-based cut & chip resin for the most demanding applications.

NaugaShield BIO-TR 30 is SI Group’s latest advancement in bio-based performance resins designed to significantly improve cut and chip resistance in high-severity rubber applications. With approximately 75 percent bio-based content, this innovative material delivers on sustainability targets while exceeding the performance typically associated with petroleum-derived resins, making it a strong choice for applications such as OTR tyres in mining, construction and agriculture, mining conveyor belts, rubber tracks and mill linings.

Cut and chip resistance is a complex set of material behaviours, including static mechanical strength, dynamic response under deformation and ability to withstand sharp impacts and abrasive environments. In demanding applications such as mining or agriculture, materials must tolerate repeated high-strain loading and resist the initiation and propagation of tears. NaugaShield™ BIO-TR 30 was developed precisely to meet these conditions, demonstrating notably low dynamic heat buildup and excellent tear strength – characteristics closely tied to enhanced cut and chip resistance and long-term durability under cyclical loads.

To evaluate its performance, NaugaShield BIO-TR 30 was benchmarked in an Off-road Rib Tread formulation against two widely used industry references: a gum rosin/semi-aromatic C5/C9 resin combination and a styrenated DCPD resin. All materials were tested at an equal loading of 10 phr to provide a direct and unbiased comparison. Under these conditions, the bio-based resin consistently outperformed both alternatives, offering a stronger balance of reinforcing behaviour, improved tear propagation resistance and superior resistance to thermal degradation during dynamic flexing. Further improvements were achievable by reducing the amount of free extender oil in the compound, underscoring the resin’s adaptability in formulation design and its ability to unlock even greater performance when optimised.

These laboratory indicators were corroborated through extended Coesfeld Cut & Chip testing (see chart), in which compounds were subjected to up to 3,000 cycles at 200 rpm under a 200N applied force. Formulations containing NaugaShield BIO-TR 30 exhibited substantially lower mass loss and maintained tread surface integrity more effectively than the hydrocarbon and gum rosin-based-benchmarks. The performance advantage was even more pronounced in compounds adjusted for lower free oil content, confirming that the resin can be tailored to meet the durability requirements of the most challenging operating conditions.

The strong performance of NaugaShield BIO-TR 30 in OTR tread compounds can be readily transferred to other rubber goods that encounter similar wear mechanisms. Applications such as mining belts, agricultural and construction tracks or mill linings benefit from the resin’s ability to reinforce the rubber matrix, reduce crack growth under repeated impact and maintain structural cohesion under high-strain deformation. This versatility allows manufacturers to integrate a 75 percent bio-based resin that supports sustainability by reducing fossil-based content and helping end products last longer while maintaining – and often improving – operational performance across multiple product lines.

NaugaShield BIO-TR 30 is currently available in commercial quantities, enabling compounders and manufacturers to move directly from laboratory evaluation to pilot- and production-scale trials.

Kuraray Co., Ltd. marked its 100th anniversary on 24 June 2026, with a commemorative ceremony at the Tokyo International Forum. The company live-streamed the event to its domestic and overseas locations, enabling employees worldwide to join the celebration simultaneously and strengthening the Group's collective spirit.

The speciality chemical company expressed deep appreciation to its stakeholders and predecessors for their enduring support throughout the century. Leaders also reaffirmed the organisation's determination to pursue new challenges collaboratively as it embarks on its next hundred years.

Hitoshi Kawahara, President, Kuraray Co., Ltd.

President Hitoshi Kawahara called for uniting values across diverse countries, regions, languages and cultures during this pivotal moment. He advocated for realising ‘One Kuraray’ by actively connecting people, technologies and knowledge beyond conventional organisational and business boundaries to co-create fresh value.

Kuraray originated in 1926 in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, with the commercial production of synthetic rayon. Over the past century, the company built its reputation on distinctive technologies, including PVA fiber, PVOH resin, CLARINO man-made leather and EVAL EVOH resin, guided by its mission to achieve what no other company can for people and the planet. Today, Kuraray operates across 32 countries and regions. The company now views its centennial as a launching point for tackling social challenges through innovation and for unlocking new possibilities in the years ahead.

Cabot Corporation has once again achieved the top-tier platinum designation from EcoVadis, maintaining this elite status for six consecutive years. This accomplishment secures the company’s place among the global elite, as only one percent of all businesses scrutinised by the rating agency receive this highest mark. The outcome reflects the firm's sustained emphasis on driving tangible environmental and social advancements while upholding rigorous disclosure standards across its operational network.

The assessment framework employed by EcoVadis examines more than 150,000 entities worldwide, spanning numerous sectors and geographies, with evaluations rooted in established sustainability benchmarks. Cabot registered its most significant annual performance jump this cycle, with a five-point increase in its cumulative score, driven largely by enhanced results in the ethical conduct segment. Additionally, the company retained its exceptional standing in both environmental stewardship and workforce rights, securing the maximum possible recognition in those two critical areas.

With EcoVadis consistently tightening its evaluation parameters to mirror emerging global norms, Cabot has responded by intensifying its own internal sustainability measures. The organisation has concentrated on elevating operational effectiveness and data visibility, ensuring its practices remain responsive to the increasingly stringent expectations of stakeholders and rating bodies alike.

Underpinning this trajectory is a deeply ingrained organisational culture focused on iterative refinement and long-term value creation. By persistently elevating its sustainability agenda, Cabot reinforces its reputation as a proactive industry participant, dedicated to aligning corporate performance with broader societal and environmental objectives.

Jennifer Chittick, Senior Vice President, Safety, Health and Environment (SH&E) and Government Affairs; Chief Sustainability Officer, said, “We are encouraged by this year’s EcoVadis results, which reflect meaningful progress across our sustainability programme and our largest year-over-year score increase to date. These results demonstrate how greater transparency, stronger cross-functional collaboration and disciplined execution are helping us strengthen how we operate while advancing progress toward our 2030 sustainability goals.”

Nokian Tyres has secured a position among TIME Magazine’s World’s Most Sustainable Companies for 2026, claiming the 100th spot on a prestigious roster of 750 global enterprises. The annual compilation, produced in partnership with the research firm Statista, recognises organisations demonstrating exceptional environmental and social performance after a comprehensive evaluation of thousands of candidates worldwide.

The selection process weighed verified sustainability credentials, including active participation in the UN Global Compact and Science Based Targets initiative-approved emission reduction goals. Assessment also incorporated third-party ratings from entities like CDP and MSCI, alongside rigorous scrutiny of each company’s transparent operations, ethical governance and overall commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, ultimately distinguishing Nokian Tyres for its holistic approach to corporate accountability.

Paolo Pompei, President and CEO, Nokian Tyres, said, “This is a great acknowledgment of our long-term sustainability work and motivates us to keep improving. We want to enable drivers to make more sustainable tyre choices without compromising on performance. Renewable and recycled materials and lower rolling resistance help cut tyre lifecycle emissions, while rigorously tested tyres improve grip and safety, especially in demanding weather conditions. Proactive sustainability measures also benefit our customers: responsible sourcing reduces risks, and innovative, high-performing tyres with lower environmental footprint make it possible for our customers to offer higher-value solutions to their own clients.”