TKS Dandelions
to Rubber

A lack of sustainable rubber threatens US national security by limiting the production of tires, aircraft, and other goods. There are over 50,000 products produced from rubber in addition to tires.

Why is sustainable rubber important?
Over 90% of natural rubber comes from Southeast Asia, which could lead to supply chain issues.

Critical to the economy
Natural rubber is used in many industries, including tires, medical supplies, and other goods.

Defense capabilities
A loss of natural rubber will affect the production of military vehicles and aircraft.

What are some potential solutions?
Develop a domestic supply: The US must develop a domestic supply of natural rubber using plants like guayule and TKS (dandelion) grown hydroponically indoors in a controlled-environment.
Support farmers: The US must support farmers who grow rubber-producing crops.
Support processing facilities: The US must support facilities that extract rubber from guayule and TKS dandelion.

Other sustainability challenges
The natural rubber industry also has environmental impacts, including deforestation. Conservation organizations have called for companies to improve sustainability and reduce their impact on wildlife.

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