Rubber mapping reveals opportunities and current limitations of deforestation due-diligence

Commodity maps and the ability to monitor commodity-driven deforestation are essential for sustainability risk assessment and due diligence. Natural rubber (Hevea brasiliensis), used primarily in tyres, remains challenging to map because of its similarity to other tree cover. Integrating optical and radar satellite data, we produced a 10 m map of rubber distribution in Southeast Asia for around 2020 and assessed this map and similar products for deforestation due diligence. In continental Southeast Asia, estimated users accuracy was 0.95 and area-adjusted producers accuracy 0.78. Rubber-associated clearances of natural and semi-natural tree cover during 2011-2016 were estimated at 0.3-0.4 Mha, predominantly associated with industrial-scale plantations and concentrated in Cambodia. Historical clearances were less certain, with plausible bounds of 1.3-3.0 Mha since 1990. Evaluation of rubber and forest maps highlighted persistent limitations, particularly in insular Southeast Asia and smallholder systems. Accounting for these limitations is critical for fair and effective due diligence.