In a first, Kerala to roll out bio-bottles for packaged drinking water made from starch and Poly Lactic Acid (PLA).
In a groundbreaking initiative that sets the stage for a sustainable future, Kerala Irrigation Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (KIIDC) has introduced India’s first biodegradable water bottles. These innovative bio-bottles, crafted from starch and Poly Lactic Acid (PLA), mark a significant leap in the battle against plastic waste.
The new product, branded as ‘Hilly Aqua,’ is manufactured in partnership with Kochi-based startup 8 Specialists. The project is expected to redefine sustainable packaging, with compostable caps and labels ensuring a fully eco-friendly packaging system.
RELEVANT SUSTAINABLE GOALS
A Green Revolution in Packaging
Made from renewable materials like corn and sugarcane, these bio-bottles promise to decompose within six months of being buried in soil, leaving no harmful residue. Unlike traditional plastic, they are designed to break down completely and do not release toxins if incinerated.
KIIDC has partnered with Green Bio Products, a wholly owned subsidiary of Eight Specialist Services, for raw material supply. The manufacturing of the bottles is handled at KIIDC’s Thodupuzha and Aruvikkara plants, utilizing cutting-edge bio-foam technology.
These innovative bottles are crafted from starch derived from materials such as corn and sugarcane, giving them a transparent appearance similar to traditional plastic bottles. Importantly, the entire packaging system, including the cap and label, is biodegradable. Early trials indicate that these bottles will decompose within six months when buried in soil and will not release pollutants if incinerated.
However, the cost of producing bio-bottles is currently five times higher than that of conventional plastic bottles, which are priced at approximately ₹2.50 each. KIIDC, which sells packaged water for ₹15 per bottle, anticipates that the price of the eco-friendly, compostable alternative may double. The final pricing structure will be determined following the completion of experimental production phases.
Initial Rollout in High-Footfall Areas
The initial phase will focus on distributing the bio-bottles at tourism hotspots, festival venues, and other high-footfall areas in Kerala. This targeted approach aims to maximize visibility and consumer adoption before expanding the initiative statewide and eventually across the country.
While the cost of these eco-friendly bottles is higher than their plastic counterparts, the long-term environmental benefits outweigh the initial expense. By replacing single-use plastic bottles, Kerala is setting a powerful precedent for other states in India to follow.
All raw materials used in the production of these bottles have been certified by domestic and international agencies, ensuring that they meet global standards for biodegradability and environmental safety.
With this innovative initiative, Kerala is taking a leadership role in addressing the global plastic crisis. The state’s commitment to sustainability is clear, and the bio-bottle project is a testament to its vision of a greener, more environmentally conscious future.
