The project will begin with a scoping study of rubber cultivation across the country, involving stakeholder engagement, followed by awareness and capacity building, as well as FSC-certification preparation before the main audit assessment.
Through this project, smallholder rubber producers can expect to benefit from the technical expertise of local and international experts who are experienced in FSC-certification and working with smallholder groups. The smallholder rubber producers will be empowered through training, capacity building and guidance, as well as market entry for their primary products.
Natural rubber is an environmentally friendly choice, but only if it is sourced sustainably. FSC certification helps the rubber industry deliver nature-positive results, uphold the rights of smallholders and communities, and verify sustainable sourcing at every step in the supply chain, from forest to consumer.
“An important part of this project is working together with stakeholders to create conditions that enable local smallholder rubber producers to sustainably manage their plantations, ultimately improving their livelihoods, while delivering positive environmental outcomes, through FSC-certification,” said FSC Malaysia Country Director, Charmaine Chee.
This project will be implemented in collaboration with partners, Control Union, an accredited Certification Body and CMO Group, a forestry training and consulting firm. It will be supported by non-profit organisation, WWF-Malaysia. This project, which includes a scaling-up strategy, is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.
For enquiries, please contact FSC Malaysia at k.han@my.fsc.org