By

On Earth Day 2024, we are excited to share startups that are turning plastic pollution in India into new ways to help our planet. TechnoServe’s Greenr Sustainability Accelerator is proud to help them increase their impact.

Once hailed as the environment’s hero, a synthetic alternative to natural resources like ivory and tortoiseshell, among others, plastic has now become a major environmental villain. Environmentally speaking, it’s one of the greatest paradoxes of our times. Qualities like its durability and versatility have also led to its persistence in landfills and our oceans, causing immense harm now and into the future.

While plastic revolutionized industries and fueled advancements, indiscriminate use and ineffective waste management systems have brought us to a point where we need to make some hard choices between plastics and the planet.  

Plastic Pollution by the Numbers

Recent statistics paint a grim picture:

It’s clear that we need to take immediate action.

This Earth Day, we are highlighting green entrepreneurs from India who are rising to the challenge by offering innovative solutions to reduce plastic pollution and waste.

Supported by programs like TechnoServe’s Greenr Sustainability Accelerator, these startups are developing innovative solutions to tackle plastic pollution. Supported by the IKEA Foundation and Visa Foundation, our aim is to scale up exceptional green startups by linking them to knowledge, capital, and markets. Our model offers highly experienced strategic advisors who work to support deserving startups without any equity dilution and no program participation fees. 

Meet the Entrepreneurs

Zerund: Building a Sustainable Future with Innovative Bricks

Problem:

Solution:

Zerund tackles these issues through their revolutionary brick:

Impact:

Zerund annually processes over 10,000 tons of waste materials, transforming plastic waste into a valuable building resource. The superior insulation properties of their bricks translate to energy savings in buildings and reduced CO2 emissions. Buildings constructed with Zerund Bricks are close to 15-20% more cost-effective compared to traditional red brick structures.


EcoKaari: Your Pack of Chips, Now a Tote Bag

Problem:

Solution:

Life is all about making choices (mostly the right ones). Someone throws a packet of chips in the bin (or worse, out on the streets), EcoKaari upcycles them to design some unique products. 

Impact:

EcoKaari creates a ripple effect of positive change. It diverts plastic waste from landfills, creates sustainable jobs for artisans, and inspires consumers to make eco-conscious choices. This holistic, “closing the loop” philosophy ensures minimal waste and a responsible product lifecycle.


TGP Bioplastics: ‘Packing’ A Sustainable Punch

Problem:

Solution:

TGP Bioplastics addresses these issues by developing:

Impact:

TGP has commercialized a plastic alternative that has the same strength as conventional plastic while lowering the carbon footprint by up to 40%, cost by 5-20%, and increasing plant-based content by more than 40-50%. It has been tested for its toxicity and approved by the Government of India for commercialization in India.


RUR Greenlife: Reducing, Reusing, Recycling

Problem:

Solution:

Founded in 2009, RUR Greenlife fights back with a multi-pronged attack:

Impact:

RUR’s solid waste management approach supports nine out of 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals with sustainable projects that promote the circular economy through organic waste management. So far, RUR has:


Plastroots: Converting Plastic Waste into a Resource

Problem:

Solution:

Impact:

Plastroots diverts plastic from landfills, creates recycled resources, and contributes to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for sustainable cities, health, and climate change. Their work demonstrably saves resources and reduces CO2 emissions. Until now, it has saved:


Bliss Pads: Revolutionizing Feminine Hygiene with Plant-Based Comfort

Problem:

Solution:

Bliss Pads offers a sustainable and comfortable alternative:

Impact:

By offering a plastic-free, comfortable, and eco-friendly solution, Bliss Pads is paving the way for a more sustainable and healthy future for women and the planet. By sourcing the material from local farmers, the company also fosters economic development for local communities.  


Hulladek: Tackling the Plastic Crisis Through Responsible Waste Management

Problem:

 Solution:

 Hulladek offers a comprehensive solution for plastic and e-waste management:

Impact:

By offering a combination of waste collection, education, and industry partnerships, HullaDek paves the way for a future where plastic waste is managed effectively, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment. Their impact so far includes:


Angirus: Building Blocks for a Better Future

Problem:

Solution:

Wricks by Angirus offers a revolutionary solution:

Impact:

In an industry where clay and concrete rule, Wricks has built a more sustainable future through recycled materials and innovative building materials. The bricks are 30% lighter than traditional bricks and 80% waterproof, offering several advantages to the construction industry.


econscious: Recycling, Upcycling, Beautifying

Problem:

Solution:

econscious addresses plastic pollution and its challenges with a comprehensive approach:

Impact:

econscious’s innovative solutions have resulted in significant environmental benefits as follows:

Innovation is a Solution

As we mark Earth Day 2024, it’s exciting to see green entrepreneurs take advantage of India’s whopping $3.46 trillion market potential, according to the Aspen Network for Development Entrepreneurs

TechnoServe’s Greenr Accelerator Program is proud to be working with a new cohort of startups. Together, we are catalyzing positive economic, environmental, and social impacts not just for Earth Day but all year long. 

We hope you are inspired by the creativity, flexibility, and dedication of these innovative startups that are demonstrating that doing good for the planet can be good for people and business. 

Read more: 

Garvita Sharma is a manager of marketing and communications at TechnoServe India. 

Garvita Sharma

Garvita Sharma

Garvita Sharma is a communications professional with over 10 years of expertise in content creation and implementing effective communication strategies. She has a strong understanding of brand positioning, internal communications, and cross-functional collaboration. Garvita holds a Master of Arts in English Literature and a bachelor’s in mass media. She has worked with leading brands such as Bennett Coleman & Co., SaffronStays, and NMIMS, executing strategic content and managing multichannel engagement, including influencer marketing and PR. She is passionate about leveraging her expertise to drive impactful change in the green entrepreneurship ecosystem.

N/A