Earthfoam Private Limited, renowned for natural latex-based mattresses, toppers, and pillows, recently inaugurated their new Liquid Latex collection center in Monaragala. This state-of-the-art facility is designed with the aim of boosting the efficiency and productivity of liquid latex collection, marking a key development for the industry. Many local organic latex farmers in the region, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, often lack access to accurate information about the market prices and true value of their organic latex.
As a result, they are frequently offered unfairly low prices by purchasing companies, which fails to reflect the hard work and dedication these farmers invest in collecting the liquid latex. This issue is particularly significant in Sri Lanka’s dry zone, where rubber cultivation is gaining prominence. They have also introduced the Thurushakthi health insurance scheme in collaboration with Ceylinco Life Insurance, benefiting 1,700 organic rubber farmers and their tappers.
This comprehensive insurance plan, which is launched under the Earthfoam’s Fair Trade Programme, covers hospitalization, critical illness, and protection against natural and accidental deaths. The scheme is an expansion of last year’s initiative, where life insurance was provided to around 800 beneficiaries. This year, the number of beneficiaries has been significantly increased with plans to further extend it to 3,000 next year (2025).
In recent years, Earthfoam has made substantial investments in promoting organic farming practices in and around the Monaragala district. To further support these farmers, they have opened a new liquid latex collection center in Badalkumbura, Monaragala. This center aims to empower disadvantaged farmers by enabling them to secure better prices for their latex, ensuring that their efforts are justly rewarded.
During the inauguration ceremony, Earthfoam CEO, Mr Januka Karunasena emphasized their dedication to the well-being of farmers and tappers by announcing the upcoming donation of essential safety gear. Each year, Earthfoam provides boots, raincoats, torches, and pouches to ensure the safety and comfort of farmers and tappers during the challenging tasks of rubber tree cutting and sap collecting. Among the main CSR projects by Earthfoam are the donation of essential school supplies to children of farmers and tappers; the provision of health insurance facilities; the organisation of annual medical check-ups to detect health risks; and the donation of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits, ensuring the safety and protection of farmers and tappers during their work.
Founded in 2022, Earthfoam manufactures and exports high-quality latex foam products made from 100% natural and organic rubber to over 30 countries, including Europe and America. The company sources its rubber from over 1,700 local farmers and uses specialized methods and equipment to ensure consistency, comfort, safety, and durability. As the first in the mattress industry to receive Fair for Life certification, Earthfoam is committed to the welfare of rubber farmers and their families. Earthfoam’s products are free of fillers and mixed rubber, and they have earned several local and international awards and certifications.