Michelin and WWF renew “zero deforestation” partnership

Michelin and WWF renew “zero deforestation” partnership

WWF France and Michelin have renewed a partnership to drive sustainable mobility through the responsible sourcing of rubber.

Since the first phase of the partnership produced such encouraging results, Michelin and WWF France have renewed the joint commitment for another four years. The objective is to lay a path towards a sustainable natural rubber market in line with the ultimate goal of zero deforestation.

The first phase, which began in 2015, aimed to define sustainable natural rubber, the development and procurement practices, and the promotion of good practices. As a result, we were able to publish our sustainable natural rubber policy which has since served as an example for several major industry players.

Taking action

Together with WWF France, we’re forging a way forward through a pilot project in Indonesia. This involves nurturing new life in damaged zones that have been given priority status for their rich biodiversity and proximity to the Bukit Tigapuluh National Park, which is also known as The Thirty Hills. The project aims to preserve and restore the forest while developing responsible rubber plantations for the benefit of local communities and the natural environment.

The project includes the establishment of a consultation and inclusion programme for local communities, the construction of villages, tackling illegal deforestation in the area, and protecting almost 10 000 additional hectares of elephant habitat. With the renewal of this partnership, we can continue this project and expand the benefits with a balance between local economic development and the preservation of biodiversity in the face of many social and environmental challenges.

Transforming the industry

Michelin and the WWF are founder members of the International Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber, which was created in March 2019. Together with 39 other members, this initiative aims for the large-scale transformation of rubber purchasing and production practices – involving key stakeholders from producers to consumers – to protect threatened ecosystems from unsustainable practices. With this programme too, our partnership with WWF makes it possible to drive change at the heart of the rubber market.  

In addition, Michelin will leverage the support of WWF France to meet its greenhouse gas emission reduction target in line with the Paris Agreement, as well as the development and implementation of a Biodiversity 2030 strategy.

At Michelin, our products are designed with sustainability in mind. For us, “a better way forward” means maximising benefits for consumers and the environment through long-lasting and sustainably sourced materials.