Step into the dynamic world of startups, where innovation and creativity reign supreme. Sustainability has become a key focus, and startups are spearheading the development of sustainable solutions to tackle global challenges.
India’s startup ecosystem is leading the charge in the global sustainability movement, reaching a notable milestone in 2024 with the widespread adoption of green practices. The nation’s dedication to sustainability is clear through proactive measures to decarbonize and a bold commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. India’s position as the ninth-largest recipient of climate tech investment globally underscores the significant venture capital funding flowing into pioneering climate tech startups.
Role of Startups in Sustainability
Startups are playing a pivotal role in driving sustainability initiatives across various industries, revolutionizing the way we address environmental challenges. These agile and innovative ventures are leveraging technology, creativity, and a commitment to sustainability to develop groundbreaking solutions that promote eco-friendly practices.
One of the key contributions of startups to sustainability is the development of disruptive technologies that enable more efficient use of resources and reduce environmental impact. From renewable energy solutions to waste management innovations, startups are at the forefront of developing and implementing cutting-edge technologies that help businesses and consumers minimize their carbon footprint.
Furthermore, startups are driving awareness and education about sustainability through their products and services. By offering eco-friendly alternatives and promoting conscious consumerism, startups are empowering individuals to make environmentally responsible choices in their everyday lives.
These are some of the startups who work as ‘Green Warriors’ of India:
Mainetti
Mainetti, renowned for its expertise in apparel and packaging solutions, proudly announces the launch of its state-of-the-art plastic bag manufacturing plant in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This cutting-edge facility, spanning an impressive 85,000 square feet, is set to revolutionize the industry by producing up to 1.3 million bags daily.
At the heart of Mainetti’s commitment to sustainability is the integration of up to 100% recycled content in its plastic bags, made possible by the innovative Polyloop system. With an annual processing capacity of 4,000 tonnes of recycled material, Mainetti is leading the charge in eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
Michelle Boon, Mainetti’s global head of flexible packaging, underscores the strategic significance of this move. She highlights the company’s dedication to meeting evolving retailer demands while advancing sustainable practices in the packaging industry. Mainetti is actively engaged in global sustainability initiatives. By joining the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Global Network, Mainetti demonstrates its commitment to setting ambitious targets and driving meaningful change in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.
Nepra
Established in 2006 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Nepra Resource Management Private Limited has emerged as India’s premier waste management company. With a nationwide presence and operating capacity of 560 Metric Tonnes Per Day (MTPD) across 5 Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), Nepra is dedicated to addressing critical social and environmental challenges.
Nepra’s core mission revolves around achieving “Zero Waste to Landfill” and “Closing the Loop” to foster a circular economy. By implementing innovative and inclusive models, Nepra aims to create a positive socio-economic and environmental impact. Through strategic environmental solutions, the company empowers communities and organizations to embrace sustainability, efficiency, and organization.
As a responsible Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), Nepra has been actively engaged in shaping and adhering to the Pollution and Waste Management (PWM) Rules since their notification in 2016. By participating in policy discussions and implementing best practices, Nepra continues to drive positive change and set new standards in the waste management sector.
Waste Ventures
Waste Ventures India is leading the charge in revolutionizing waste management practices across the country. Established in 2011 and headquartered in Delhi, this innovative startup has been instrumental in averting up to 90% of waste from dumpsites while producing nutrient-rich organic compost.
The company’s approach is multifaceted and inclusive, with a focus on signing multi-year contracts with local municipalities and empowering waste pickers through employment at their processing units. By leveraging the expertise of these waste pickers, Waste Ventures India effectively segregates waste, contributing to more efficient and sustainable waste management practices.
With a staggering 44 projects lined up for the current year, including two initiatives in Andhra Pradesh villages, Waste Ventures India is committed to implementing inclusive, decentralized, and holistic waste management models. These initiatives not only address India’s ongoing trash issue but also aim to create a better quality of life for informal waste pickers and rag pickers by integrating them into low-value plastics collection activities.
Fourth Partner Energy (FPEL)
Fourth Partner Energy (FPEL) stands as India’s sole Integrated Renewable Energy Solutions Company, dedicated to serving Commercial & Industrial businesses. With a resolute commitment to accelerating decarbonization efforts, FPEL extends its services not only across India but also throughout South and Southeast Asia. The company specializes in offering Renewable Energy-as-a-Service (REaaS), enabling businesses to offset nearly 100% of their energy requirements through clean and green sources.
Recognizing the significant energy consumption by the Transport and Industrial sectors in India, FPEL asserts that Corporate India must take the lead in transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Accordingly, FPEL provides Commercial and Industrial businesses with a comprehensive range of solutions, including Solar, Wind, Hybrid, Battery storage, EV Charging, and Carbon Credit solutions.
Setting itself apart from other renewable energy developers in India, FPEL distinguishes itself by offering a unique and extensive portfolio of customized clean energy solutions under one platform. Founded in 2010 by Vivek Subramanian, Saif Dhorajiwala, and Vikas Saluguti, FPEL focuses on financing and constructing rooftop solar projects for commercial, industrial, and residential clients. The company’s recent achievement includes securing $2 million in funding, further solidifying its position as a leader in the renewable energy sector.
SayTrees
SayTrees is a pioneering NGO in India dedicated to environmental conservation and tree plantation initiatives. Registered under sections 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act, as well as possessing the FCRA certificate, SayTrees is committed to creating urban and rural forests, rejuvenating water bodies, supporting farmers with fruit trees, and installing solar lamps in villages. With the support of individuals and corporates under their CSR initiatives, SayTrees has planted thousands of saplings, engaging a vast volunteer base that spans across different age groups and professions.
Through their extensive tree plantation drives and water conservation projects in several Indian cities, SayTrees aims to sensitize and empower people to contribute towards creating a greener and healthier environment for all. Their mission is to inspire citizens to dedicate a few hours of their weekends towards environmental conservation, with long-term plans to expand their efforts to more cities and engage more corporate teams to amplify their impact.
Zunpulse
Zunpulse is a prominent solar rooftop service provider in India, driven by the mission to harness the power of the sun and enable customers to make smarter energy choices. Established in 2016 by Sushant Sachan and Pranesh Chaudhary, Zunpulse is headquartered in Gurgaon and has emerged as a leader in delivering solar energy and IoT smart energy solutions.
With a strong focus on quality and innovation, Zunpulse boasts over 4500 high-quality solar rooftop installations across 75+ cities in India, ranging from 1kW to 100kW capacities. The company’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its ability to provide reliable and efficient solar energy solutions to a diverse range of customers.
Furthermore, Zunpulse sets itself apart by offering IoT-powered Remote Monitoring Systems, providing customers with real-time updates about their solar rooftop systems and the savings derived from them. This innovative approach enhances transparency and enables customers to optimize their energy consumption effectively.
Through its unwavering dedication to sustainability and technological advancement, Zunpulse continues to empower individuals and businesses to transition towards cleaner and more efficient energy solutions, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Yulu
Yulu, originally conceived as an initiative to alleviate metropolitan traffic and pollution in India, has evolved into a pioneering startup that is redefining urban mobility. Guided by the principles of Accessibility, Availability, and Affordability, Yulu is committed to shaping urban mobility across the country through its user-friendly mobile app and innovative use of Micro Mobility Vehicles (MMVs).
By leveraging advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, and machine learning, Yulu has established itself as a key player in the realm of Integrated Urban Mobility, seamlessly integrating public and private transport options. The company’s innovative approach not only enhances accessibility and availability of transportation but also ensures affordability, making urban mobility more efficient and sustainable.
Yulu’s transformative impact on urban mobility is driven by its dedication to providing convenient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective transportation solutions to users across India.
AirOK
Deekshith Vara Prasad, Pavan Reddy Yasa, and Vanam Sravan Krishna, the visionary minds behind AirOk, have dedicated themselves to combating the silent menace of indoor air pollution. Their startup leverages cutting-edge technology to develop advanced air purification systems that significantly enhance indoor air quality and promote better health.
Driven by personal experiences with poor indoor air quality, the founders of AirOk embarked on a journey of eco-friendly entrepreneurship with a mission to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Their commitment to prioritizing health and sustainability has not only attracted substantial investment but has also garnered them a reputation for innovation and impact.
At the core of AirOk’s mission is their revolutionary patented air filter, EGAPA, which stands as a testament to their commitment to cleaner and safer air. This groundbreaking filter is capable of eliminating an impressive 99.7% of air pollutants, including viruses, VOCs, bacteria, mold, and even cancer cells, setting new standards for air quality improvement.
Through their relentless pursuit of cleaner and safer air, AirOk has emerged as a beacon of innovation, revolutionizing the way indoor air is purified and demonstrating that advancements in technology can be harnessed for the betterment of public health and environmental sustainability.
Log9 Materials
Akshay Singhal’s Log9 Materials is at the forefront of innovation, leveraging graphene-based solutions to redefine various industries and promote environmental sustainability. Their groundbreaking technology spans across sectors, from air purification to energy storage, making a significant impact while attracting substantial investment.
Driven by a deep fascination with nanotechnology, Akshay Singhal embarked on a mission to harness graphene’s potential for widespread applications. His vision for Log9 Materials was rooted in the belief that graphene could revolutionize multiple sectors, leading to the development of eco-friendly solutions with far-reaching benefits.
Log9 Materials’ ambitions extend beyond their current achievements. They are actively developing aluminium-based power backups to replace diesel-dependent solutions, furthering their commitment to sustainable innovation. Through their relentless pursuit of eco-friendly solutions and innovative technologies, Log9 Materials is rewriting the playbook of innovation and shaping the future of sustainability.
Beco
Beco, a Mumbai-based startup established in 2018, is revolutionizing the consumer goods industry with its commitment to sustainability. Founded by Aditya Ruia, Anuj Ruia, and Akshay Varma, Beco (short for Be Eco) specializes in manufacturing biodegradable and sustainable alternatives to single-use products. Their product range includes dinner napkins, toilet rolls, facial tissues, tissue rolls, and more, all crafted from biodegradable and compostable materials like corn starch and bamboo.
Dedicated to eco-friendly practices, Beco offers a wide array of products for kitchen, home care, and personal care, ensuring that every aspect of daily living can be more sustainable. In addition to utilizing biodegradable materials, the company pays meticulous attention to packaging, using recycled and craft paper to eliminate the need for plastics.
The Summer House
The Summer House established in 2015, is a Bengaluru-based online-only sustainable apparel and homeware label. With a mission to merge modern wardrobes with traditional craftsmanship, The Summer House offers statement garments designed for effortless everyday wear. Their designs focus on creating shapes that remain relevant across seasons, using materials known for their durability.
In line with their commitment to sustainability, The Summer House works closely with traditional handloom artisans to produce exquisite fabrics. Additionally, the brand prioritizes sourcing the most sustainable materials available and aims to become a zero waste company. All garments are crafted in-house with meticulous attention to quality and intentional design, with silhouettes that celebrate femininity in every form.
