CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) has transferred process technology Nanocellulose Engineered Starch-based granules for compostable plastics as an alternative to single-use synthetic plastic to Hyderabad-based Greenworksbio Products (GBPL).
The company, headed by Rishika Reddy, consequently has commercialised the developed technology into 19 products and launched them in collaboration with CSIR-IICT. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh virtually participated in the launch recently.
Telangana IT and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu, Special Chief Secretary-IT and Industries Jayesh Ranjan, CIPET Director General Shishir Sinha, Apollo Hospitals Group Joint MD Sangita Reddy and WE Hub CEO Sita Pallacholla attended the event, CSIR-IICT said in a release.
Under the leadership of CSIR-IICT Director D. Srinivas Reddy, a team led by Senior Scientist of the Chemical Engineering and Process Technology (CEPT) department Vineet Aniya developed the innovative tech solution that aligns with the Government of India’s initiatives that have banned high-littering single-use plastic items such as straws, cutlery and thin packaging under 120 microns.
The compostable bioplastics are developed based on green chemistry principles and certified by CIPET, ensuring no harmful chemicals are released during the composting process. High load bearing capacity, thinning down the size of bags, lower plastic consumption, reduction in agri-waste, better transparency, antimicrobial properties and improved printability are some of the features of the low-cost bioplastics, the Institute said.
Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister emphasised the importance of industry-academic partnerships in curbing single-use plastic pollution. He highlighted the pivotal role of such initiatives in bridging policy implementation gaps and propelling India to a leading global leader in sustainable innovation.
At the event, CSIR-IICT and GBPL signed an MoU to develop technologies for producing PBAT (a biodegradable polymer) using PET plastic waste, primarily from discarded water bottles. This collaboration aims to foster eco-friendly and scalable solutions, accelerate the transition toward sustainability and contribute to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The partnership exemplifies the synergy between research, industry and government policies, marking a crucial step towards reducing plastic pollution and building a sustainable future, it said.
Published – December 11, 2024 09:26 pm IST
