ETEL today announces that from this week customers are able to purchase a range of Hankook tyres supporting the Project TREE programme.
The supporting range is now available to wholesale customers through Stapleton’s and to Kwik Fit retail and fleet customers either in centre or online, including for mobile fitting. Hankook’s Project TREE supporting tyres includes a variety of sizes, including two of the most popular van fitments.
Project TREE was announced in December as a new initiative from ETEL parent company ITOCHU to encourage sustainable natural rubber production and help protect the rainforests of Indonesia. Purchases of tyres from the range help fund an innovative programme in Sumatra which uses blockchain technology to track and inspect the supply of natural rubber. The proprietary traceability system is designed to ensure rubber going into the system is from sustainable sources and at the same time provide clear records of individual farmers’ production.
ITOCHU’s goal is for 100% of its natural rubber production to be certified under the Project TREE programme by 2025.
Mark Slade, managing director of Kwik Fit, says: “We are delighted that Hankook has made its certified products available so quickly following its announcement that it would be participating in Project TREE. We have had a really positive response from customers to the initial Project TREE range and we are sure that Hankook’s products will be equally well received. With the options now including two common van fitments, there is also the opportunity for businesses to make a contribution to sustainability with their choice of tyre.”
