Turning Plastic into Purpose: Carbon & Whale’s Eco Journey
In a world where plastic waste has become a ubiquitous problem, a young startup from Kochi is making waves by transforming single-use plastic into durable, modular furniture. Carbon & Whale, founded by Alvin George, Sidharth A K, and Sooraj Varma, is on a mission to tackle environmental waste and urban infrastructure needs while proving that sustainability can drive profitability.
The journey began in 2019 when the co-founders came together with a shared vision to create a more eco-friendly future. With a strong background in design, engineering, and entrepreneurship, they saw an opportunity to revolutionize the way we think about plastic waste. “We realized that plastic waste was not just a problem, but also a resource that could be harnessed to create something valuable,” Alvin George, one of the co-founders, explains.
The team spent months researching and experimenting with different techniques to recycle plastic, finally developing a proprietary process that converts plastic waste into durable, high-quality materials. This innovative approach has enabled Carbon & Whale to create a range of modular furniture products, from chairs to tables, that are not only sustainable but also aesthetically pleasing.
The startup’s flagship product is its “Plastic-to-Plywood” technology, which transforms plastic waste into a high-density, eco-friendly plywood alternative. This material is then used to manufacture a range of furniture pieces, from lightweight chairs to heavy-duty storage units. What’s impressive is that the furniture produced using this technology is not only durable but also meets international quality standards.
The impact of Carbon & Whale’s eco-friendly approach has been significant. In just five years, the startup has recycled over 12,000 kg of plastic waste, equivalent to the weight of around 200 cars. This may seem like a small amount, but considering the average plastic waste generated per day, it’s a drop in the ocean. Moreover, the startup has achieved a revenue milestone of ₹5 crore by 2025, proving that sustainability can be a profitable business model.
So, how does Carbon & Whale’s eco-friendly approach work? The process begins with collection of plastic waste from various sources, including households, industries, and waste management facilities. The plastic waste is then sorted, cleaned, and processed into small pieces, which are then heated and melted to create a raw material. This raw material is then molded into the desired shape using a proprietary process, resulting in a durable, high-quality material that can be used to manufacture furniture.
But what sets Carbon & Whale apart is its commitment to sustainability. The startup uses a closed-loop system, where the raw material is constantly cycled back into production, reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact. Additionally, the startup partners with local waste management facilities to ensure that the plastic waste collected is properly sorted and processed, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or oceans.
The impact of Carbon & Whale’s eco-friendly approach is not limited to the environment. The startup’s products have also resonated with customers who are looking for sustainable solutions to their furniture needs. “We’ve received an overwhelmingly positive response from customers who appreciate our commitment to sustainability,” says Sidharth A K, another co-founder. “They’re willing to pay a premium for products that not only meet their needs but also contribute to a better future.”
As Carbon & Whale continues to grow and expand its operations, it’s clear that the startup is poised to make a significant impact on the environment and urban infrastructure. The startup’s innovative approach to recycling plastic waste has not only reduced waste but also created a sustainable business model that can be replicated in other parts of the world.
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 startup is not only tackling environmental waste but also driving profitability. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of plastic waste, startups like Carbon & Whale are leading the way towards a more sustainable future.
News Source: https://ascendants.in/the-ascendants/waste-plastic-furniture-carbon-whale/
