Some issues related to sustainability in the smallholder rubber sector: a case study of three major rubber growing districts

Abstract

This study was done in the smallholder rubber sector in Sri Lanka to identify socio­ economic,, technological and environmental issues and their relationships on the sustainability of the smallholder rubber sector. The study was confined to the 3 major rubber growing districts of Sri Lanka, namely; Kegalle, Kalutara and Ratnapura districts. The methodologies involved in this study were Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and questionnaire surveys. Substandard growth in immature lands, low productivity in mature lands, low quality in produced rubber, low societal involvement and improper marketing were identified as major issues at local and regional level while depletion of the rubber extent was of national concern. Appropriate institutional responses to combat adverse impacts of these issues are also discussed to improve the well being of rubber smallholders and the country as a whole.