
Turning Plastic into Purpose: Carbon & Whale’s Eco Journey
The world is facing an unprecedented environmental crisis, with plastic waste being a significant contributor to this problem. Single-use plastics, in particular, have become a major concern, as they are often not recycled and end up in landfills or oceans, harming marine life and contaminating the food chain. However, a group of entrepreneurs in Kochi, India, has taken a bold step to address this issue by transforming plastic waste into durable modular furniture. Meet Carbon & Whale, a startup that is turning plastic into purpose.
Founded by Alvin George, Sidharth A K, and Sooraj Varma, Carbon & Whale has developed a unique process of recycling plastic waste into high-quality furniture, such as chairs, tables, and shelves. The company’s mission is to tackle environmental waste and urban infrastructure needs by promoting sustainable living and reducing plastic pollution.
The journey of Carbon & Whale began in 2014, when the founders were working on a project to create a sustainable furniture range. They were inspired by the concept of upcycling, which involves transforming waste materials into something of greater value. After conducting extensive research and experimenting with various plastic recycling techniques, they developed a patented process that could transform plastic waste into durable and stylish furniture.
Carbon & Whale’s eco-friendly furniture is made from recycled plastic, which is collected from various sources, including landfills, recycling centers, and even plastic waste sent to them by customers. The plastic is then cleaned, processed, and transformed into raw material that can be molded into various shapes and forms. The resulting furniture is not only sustainable but also durable, resistant to corrosion, and easy to maintain.
Since its inception, Carbon & Whale has recycled over 12,000 kilograms of plastic waste, which is equivalent to the weight of about 12 elephants. The company has also achieved a significant milestone by hitting ₹5 crore in revenue by 2025, demonstrating that sustainability can drive profitability.
The success of Carbon & Whale can be attributed to its innovative approach to plastic recycling and its commitment to sustainability. The company’s products are not only eco-friendly but also affordable and stylish, making them attractive to customers who are looking for sustainable living solutions. Additionally, Carbon & Whale’s products are designed to be modular, making it easy for customers to disassemble and recycle them when they are no longer needed.
The impact of Carbon & Whale’s efforts cannot be overstated. By recycling plastic waste, the company is reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans, which helps to protect the environment and preserve natural resources. The company’s products also promote sustainable living by encouraging customers to reduce their plastic consumption and adopt eco-friendly practices.
Carbon & Whale’s success has also inspired others to follow in their footsteps. The company has collaborated with various organizations, including schools and NGOs, to promote plastic recycling and sustainability. Additionally, Carbon & Whale has developed a training program to teach people how to recycle plastic waste and create sustainable products.
In conclusion, Carbon & Whale’s eco journey is a testament to the power of innovation and sustainability. By transforming plastic waste into durable modular furniture, the company is not only reducing plastic pollution but also promoting sustainable living and reducing waste. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, Carbon & Whale’s story serves as a reminder that sustainability can drive profitability and that innovative solutions can make a significant impact on the environment.
Source: https://ascendants.in/the-ascendants/waste-plastic-furniture-carbon-whale/