From Tree to Tire: The Remarkable Journey of Rubber
Rubber, a versatile and ubiquitous material, is an essential component in countless products we rely on daily, most notably tires. The material's unique properties, including its elasticity, durability, and resistance to water and electricity, stem from its molecular structure. Whether sourced naturally from the latex of rubber trees or synthesized from petroleum, rubber undergoes a complex process of vulcanization—a chemical treatment with sulfur—to enhance its strength and resilience. This process, a historical breakthrough, transformed rubber from a sticky, unreliable substance into the robust material we know today.
Today, the industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation. A key player, Michelin, is at the forefront of this evolution, demonstrating a strong commitment to creating a more sustainable rubber value chain. Michelin recently announced a major milestone in its quest for a greener future: the development of an elite rubber tree variety, CMB75, in collaboration with the International Cooperation Centre for Agricultural Research and Development (CIRAD). This new variety, a product of over 30 years of research, is resistant to South American leaf blight, a devastating fungal disease, and offers a higher latex yield.
This development is significant because it aims to boost the productivity of existing plantations, reducing the need for new land and thus combating deforestation. By focusing on superior genetics, Michelin is not only securing its supply chain but also empowering smallholder farmers and contributing to the long-term sustainability of the natural rubber industry. This initiative, along with their other efforts to use more bio-sourced and recycled materials, highlights how companies are using innovation to ensure the future of rubber is both high-performing and environmentally responsible.