SHERIDAN, WYOMING – May 6, 2025 – Continental, a global leader in tire manufacturing, is extending its game-changing partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) to promote sustainable natural rubber cultivation—bringing hope, higher incomes, and a greener future to even more smallholder farmers in Indonesia.
For consumers who care about the origins of everyday products—from tires to sports gear—this is a big deal. The initiative, now extended through 2027, promises not just better rubber, but a better life for the people who grow it. By training farmers in environmentally friendly methods and introducing cutting-edge traceability tools, Continental is ensuring that what touches your road starts with care for people and planet.
Supporting Small Farmers, One Harvest at a Time
This sustainability project began in 2018, with a bold goal: to improve both the quality of natural rubber and the quality of life for those who grow it. Since then, around 5,000 smallholders in West Kalimantan, Borneo, have been empowered with new skills and better prospects.
By 2027, the program aims to include 1,000 more smallholders, expanding its positive impact in the Kapuas Hulu region. These farmers will gain access to:
- Expert-led training in sustainable rubber cultivation
- Proven agricultural practices that increase yields
- A digital traceability system that brings full transparency to the supply chain
- A clear path to higher income and long-term stability
The results so far are inspiring: farmers in the program have seen their incomes rise by an average of 27%.
Better Rubber, Brighter Future
Continental’s commitment goes far beyond compliance—it’s about genuine transformation. The company understands its role in shaping an ethical supply chain, especially for a raw material that touches countless products.
“As one of the largest tire manufacturers in the world, we have a particular responsibility in the natural rubber supply chain,” said Dr. Michael Radke, head of sustainability in purchasing at Continental. “That is why we are committed at all levels and are building capacity locally. Over the past few years, together with GIZ, we have shown that we can make the natural rubber supply chain transparent and at the same time increase farmers’ incomes. Now we want to reach even more smallholders and create the framework conditions for the successes achieved to be sustained.”
By promoting transparency and fair practices, Continental is setting a new standard for corporate responsibility in the automotive and manufacturing sectors.
Why This Matters to You
As a conscious consumer, every purchase is a chance to make a difference. When you buy tires or other products that rely on responsibly sourced natural rubber, you’re helping drive change on a global scale.
Continental’s work ensures that:
- The rubber in your tires supports ethical sourcing
- Farming communities thrive economically and socially
- Environmental impact is reduced through sustainable practices
This initiative reflects a growing movement where companies and consumers team up to support people and the planet—one smallholder farmer at a time.
How to Support and Learn More
Continental’s extended project with GIZ is already making waves in the industry. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a sustainability advocate, or simply someone who values fairness, this is a success story worth following.
Learn more at https://www.continental.com