
Turning plastic into purpose: Carbon & Whale’s eco journey
In a world where plastic waste has become a pressing environmental concern, Carbon & Whale, a Kochi-based startup, is revolutionizing the way we think about single-use plastic. Founded by Alvin George, Sidharth A K, and Sooraj Varma, the company has developed a unique solution to transform plastic waste into durable modular furniture, tackling both environmental waste and urban infrastructure needs.
The journey of Carbon & Whale began with a simple yet profound question: “What if we could turn plastic waste into something of value?” The founders, all passionate about sustainability, embarked on a mission to find a solution to the plastic pollution crisis. After months of research and development, they created a patented technology that converts plastic waste into high-quality, sustainable furniture.
The process is remarkable. Used plastic is collected from various sources, sorted, and cleaned. The plastic is then shredded and melted into a raw material, which is molded into various shapes and forms. The resulting products are durable, eco-friendly, and designed to meet the needs of modern urban spaces.
In just a few years, Carbon & Whale has made significant strides. They have recycled over 12,000 kg of plastic, saving it from landfills and oceans. The startup has also achieved a remarkable milestone – hitting ₹5 crore in revenue by 2025. This achievement is a testament to the fact that sustainability can drive profitability, and that eco-friendly business models can be successful.
Carbon & Whale’s innovative approach has attracted attention from various stakeholders, including urban planners, architects, and interior designers. The company’s products are designed to be modular, allowing them to be easily assembled and rearranged to meet the changing needs of urban spaces. This flexibility makes them an attractive solution for modern cities, where space is often limited and versatility is key.
The startup’s impact extends beyond the environment. By providing sustainable furniture solutions, Carbon & Whale is also helping to reduce the demand for virgin materials, thereby supporting the sustainable development of urban infrastructure. The company’s products are designed to be durable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.
Carbon & Whale’s success is a result of the founders’ dedication to sustainability and their commitment to innovative problem-solving. Alvin George, one of the co-founders, notes, “We believe that sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a fundamental principle that should guide our decisions and actions. Our goal is to create a business model that not only benefits our customers but also the environment and our community.”
Sidharth A K, another co-founder, adds, “We are passionate about creating a positive impact, and we believe that our technology has the potential to make a significant difference. By turning plastic waste into something of value, we can reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote sustainability.”
Sooraj Varma, the third co-founder, notes, “Our journey has not been without its challenges, but we have been driven by our passion for sustainability and our commitment to innovation. We are proud of what we have achieved so far, and we are excited to see where this journey takes us.”
Carbon & Whale’s story serves as a reminder that sustainability and profitability are not mutually exclusive. With the right approach, businesses can thrive while also promoting environmental stewardship. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of plastic waste, Carbon & Whale’s innovative solution offers a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future.
Source: https://ascendants.in/the-ascendants/waste-plastic-furniture-carbon-whale/