Michelin to develop CSR web platform for natural rubber

Montpellier, France – Michelin has chosen agricultural industry software company SMAG to help it accelerate and digitise its CSR policy with regards to natural rubber supply-chain.

The Montpellier-based company will develop a web platform for Michelin to collect CSR indicators directly linked to the production of natural rubber.

In a 10 Jan statement, the French tire maker said it is investing more in digital technology to develop “new sustainable development strategy and social responsibility”.

“With nearly six million small-scale growers in the natural rubber world, the impact of an ambitious CSR policy can positively influence sustainable development and improve conditions of work,” said Michelin.

Michelin launched consultation with SMAG, which specialises in information systems for the agriculture industry, in 2016, and has now selected the company to develop a collaborative tool for mapping its natural rubber value chain.

In addition to the web platform, a mobile phone application will also collect CSR information for Michelin’s suppliers, including small and large planters, intermediaries and direct suppliers.

Tests are currently under way to deploy the application to future users in 2017.

In medium-term, the project aims to address technical and economic issues in large farms and parcel management of rubber crops, such as optimisation of cultivation practices, precision agriculture, and fertilisation.