Much of the investment Firestone Natural Rubber makes is to ensure the future of the country’s natural rubber industry. Efforts include supporting farmers through best-in-class training and techniques. Firestone Liberia also provides ongoing farm advisory support, farm supplies and materials at cost, and other support to the Liberian rubber industry.
At an estimated cost of USD $2 million, Firestone Liberia provided 5.6 million free natural rubber stumps (planting material) to 2,100 Liberian rubber farmers in an effort to help revitalize the country’s natural rubber industry devastated by the prolonged civil wars. This assistance has resulted in the replanting of an estimated 25,000 acres of rubber trees by private Liberian rubber farmers.
The company’s commitment to the environment is reflected in the comprehensive Environmental Management Plan (EMP).
First established as part of a 2005 agreement with the Government of Liberia, the EMP continues to serve as Firestone Liberia’s daily guide for enhanced and improved environmental stewardship, as well as for safe and environmentally sound operational practices.
