Bicycle tyre maker Schwalbe has provided an update from its project in Lebak Bante, Indonesia, which highlights the positive impact of agroforestry and sustainable practices in the rubber sector, eight months after it partnered with a fair rubber supplier to plant 7,500 rubber tree seedlings.
In addition to the rubber trees, a variety of crops such as bitter melons, eggplants, bananas, and others have been planted as part of a diverse agroforestry system. This approach not only supports biodiversity but also creates sustainable income opportunities for the local community. Moreover, it helps improve soil health, enhance ecological resilience, and fosters natural pest control.
This progress is the result of the dedicated efforts of the rubber tappers from the Yayasan Adil Makmur Sejahtera Cikulur association, with thanks to funding provided by Fair Rubber member Schwalbe.
As this project continues to develop, the family-owned company says it is “excited about the long-term benefits that this combination of sustainable agriculture and rubber production will bring to the region”.
The project is being scientifically supported by the Indonesian Rubber Research Institute (IRRI).
The innovative “test plantations” are designed to be close to nature and are based on the vegetation of natural forests. This creates a diverse, species-rich environment that comes remarkably close to the conditions of an original forest and thus represents a clear positive alternative to conventional monoculture systems.
This method protects the rubber trees from parasitic leaf diseases and crop failures and preserves the natural ecosystem. The combination of high biodiversity and sustainable cultivation creates a long-term stable sources of income for the local community, while at the same time strengthening soil health and the resilience of the environment.
Felix Jahn, head of CSR at Schwalbe, says: “We have launched a truly pioneering project in Java, and we are delighted with its success to date. Environmentally friendly cultivation methods help to reduce the risk of deforestation, preserve biodiversity and maintain the ecological functions of the forests through efficient use.”
Schwalbe’s commitment to fairly traded natural rubber is also reflected in its product range: It now uses around one-third of fair rubber in its production in the year 2024.
At the same time, the company is working together with Fair Rubber e.V. to further expand the system. For every kilo of raw material, Schwalbe pays a premium of EUR0.50 directly to certified small farmers and rubber tappers. This premium corresponds to over a quarter of the current world market price and directly supports the livelihoods of local communities.