Compostable Bags from Agri Waste Reshaping Packaging Industry
A groundbreaking study published in Environment International in 2022 has exposed a shocking reality: microplastics have been discovered in human blood samples. The study revealed the presence of PET bottles used for soft drinks, polystyrene from disposable utensils in the food-service industry, and polyethene from grocery and garbage bag polymers. This alarming finding highlights the pervasive nature of plastic use in our daily lives and the urgent need for proper plastic waste management.
BioReform: Combating Plastic Pollution and Promoting Sustainable Alternatives Mohammed Azhar Mohiuddin, the Founder & CEO of BioReform, recognized the gravity of the plastic pollution issue and decided to take action. Starting as a student with little knowledge of production and inventory management, sales and marketing, and sourcing raw materials, he embarked on a mission to address the plastic problem. Through perseverance and hard work, BioReform, a Hyderabad-based startup, has evolved to produce 100% biodegradable and compostable bags while raising awareness about plastic pollution.
From Idea to Reality: BioReform’s Journey Seeking support and guidance, Azhar applied to Edventure Park, a student-focused startup incubator in Hyderabad. This incubation provided him with strategies for product development, piloting, financial literacy, and go-to-market planning. Despite the challenges faced as a student, Azhar successfully obtained the necessary machinery, set up the manufacturing plant, managed operations, acquired early customers, and launched GreenyBags, the eco-friendly bags produced by BioReform.
The Environmental Impact of Plastic Waste According to the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), burning one tonne of plastic packaging waste releases 2.9 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere. Additionally, burning plastic generates and releases new toxic chemicals into the food chain, exacerbating environmental and health risks.
India’s Plastic Waste Generation In response to a question in the Rajya Sabha, the union minister of state for environment stated that India generated 34,69,780 tonnes of plastic waste in the year 2019-20, witnessing a significant increase compared to the previous year. To combat plastic pollution caused by littering, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEFCC) has implemented guidelines on Extended Producers’ Responsibility (EPR) for plastic packaging, prohibiting single-use plastic items with low utility and high littering potential.
BioReform’s Vision for Sustainable Packaging BioReform aspires to revolutionize the entire packaging industry by transitioning to green packaging by 2030. Their Greeny bags are manufactured using 100% eco-friendly materials such as corn or cassava-based extracts and other natural biopolymers. These bags biodegrade and compost within 180 days, leaving no harmful residue behind. Notably, the manufacturing process involves no chemical usage, consumes less water, and requires less energy. BioReform also offers customization options to meet specific client requirements, including different sizes, thicknesses, and brand printing.
Policy Recommendations for a Greener Future Azhar emphasizes the importance of government support in improving infrastructure, facilitating the adoption of eco-friendly technologies, and ensuring the availability of raw materials. Additionally, incentivizing and implementing lower tax rates on eco-friendly products can make them more attractive to consumers.
Investing in Natural Biopolymers: A Path to Sustainable Packaging The revelation of microplastics in human blood calls for investment in natural biopolymers as promising solutions for biodegradable packaging. However, it is crucial to ensure that the adoption of these materials does not disrupt the food supply chain. It is time for innovation in sustainable packaging to contribute to a green recovery.
Conclusion: The presence of microplastics in human blood highlights the urgent need to address plastic pollution. BioReform’s commitment to combating this issue through the production of biodegradable and compostable bags serves as an inspiring example. By adopting sustainable packaging alternatives and supporting policies that promote eco-friendly technologies, we can contribute to a greener future and make a positive impact on the environment. Share your own green story and join the movement towards a sustainable and plastic-free world.