Turning Plastic into Purpose: Carbon & Whale’s Eco Journey
In a world where plastic waste has become a pressing concern, a Kochi-based startup is revolutionizing the way we think about sustainability. Carbon & Whale, founded by Alvin George, Sidharth A K, and Sooraj Varma, has successfully transformed single-use plastic into durable modular furniture, tackling environmental waste and urban infrastructure needs. With a revenue of ₹5 crore by 2025 and over 12,000 kg of plastic recycled, Carbon & Whale is a shining example of how sustainability can drive profitability.
The Story Behind Carbon & Whale
Carbon & Whale was born out of a passion to address the pressing issue of plastic waste. The founders, Alvin George, Sidharth A K, and Sooraj Varma, were driven by a shared vision to create a more sustainable future. They recognized that plastic waste was not only harming the environment but also had a significant impact on urban infrastructure. The trio saw an opportunity to transform plastic waste into something useful, and thus, Carbon & Whale was born.
The Journey Begins
The journey of Carbon & Whale began with a simple yet innovative idea – to recycle plastic waste and create durable modular furniture. The founders started by collecting plastic waste from local communities, schools, and colleges. They then processed the plastic through a patented technology, converting it into raw materials that could be used to manufacture furniture.
The first product to be launched was a school desk made from recycled plastic. The desk was designed to be durable, easy to maintain, and environment-friendly. The response was overwhelming, with schools and educational institutions across Kerala expressing interest in the product.
Scaling Up
As the demand for the desk grew, Carbon & Whale began to scale up its operations. The company invested in new machinery and technology, enabling it to process larger quantities of plastic waste. This allowed them to manufacture a range of products, including chairs, tables, and shelves.
In 2020, Carbon & Whale launched its flagship product, the ‘Eco-Furniture’ range. The range included a variety of furniture pieces made from 100% recycled plastic, designed to cater to the needs of urban homes and offices. The response was phenomenal, with orders pouring in from across India.
Impact and Achievements
Carbon & Whale’s innovative approach to sustainability has had a significant impact on the environment and urban infrastructure. The company has recycled over 12,000 kg of plastic, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. Additionally, their products have helped reduce the demand for virgin plastic, contributing to a more circular economy.
The company’s revenue has also grown steadily, reaching ₹5 crore by 2025. This success has been recognized by various organizations, including the Government of Kerala, which has awarded Carbon & Whale the ‘Best Startup in Sustainable Development’ award.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Carbon & Whale has made significant progress, the company still faces challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of awareness about the importance of sustainability and the impact of plastic waste on the environment. The founders are working to address this issue through awareness campaigns and community outreach programs.
Another challenge is the high cost of raw materials. Carbon & Whale is working to reduce costs by sourcing materials from local suppliers and investing in research and development to improve the efficiency of their manufacturing process.
Despite these challenges, the opportunities for Carbon & Whale are vast. The demand for sustainable products is growing, and the company is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Additionally, the company is exploring new markets, including the hospitality and healthcare sectors, where its products can be used to create eco-friendly furniture.
Conclusion
Carbon & Whale’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and sustainability. By transforming plastic waste into durable modular furniture, the company has not only tackled environmental waste but also created a profitable business model. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of plastic waste, Carbon & Whale’s story serves as a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future.
Source: https://ascendants.in/the-ascendants/waste-plastic-furniture-carbon-whale/
