Cellupro Green Pvt Ltd, a women-led startup supported by the KSUM WE Start Pre-Incubation Programme, is gaining attention for producing high-quality, sustainable cellulose pulp that can be used in cosmetics, paper products, and research applications.
Innovative Use of Agro-Waste
The company converts agricultural residues such as rice straw, sugarcane bagasse, jackfruit peel, and pineapple straw into cellulose pulp. This pulp serves as a raw material for a wide range of products including creams, lotions, face masks, sunscreens, tissues, sanitary napkins, eco-friendly packaging, and bio-composites.
Women Entrepreneurship and Leadership
Dr. Reshmy Rajasekharan, founder of Cellupro Green, is the first woman entrepreneur in Kerala to establish a production unit for microcrystalline and nanocrystalline cellulose pulp, marking a significant milestone in sustainable manufacturing. Her husband, Padmakumar, and Maya Rajesh are co-founders, supporting the startup from its inception.
Research-Driven Success
Dr. Reshmy’s decade-long research in cellulose pulp technology has culminated in the commercial production of micro and nano cellulose, positioning the startup at the forefront of innovation. Her contributions have been recognized globally, with consistent ranking among the top 2% scientists worldwide by Stanford University and receiving the 2023 Best Woman Scientist award from the Biotech Research Society of India (BRSI).
Sustainability and Global Goals
The startup emphasizes 100% eco-friendly and herbal products, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Patent processes for these innovative products are underway, and support from the KSUM WE Start Pre-Incubation Programme has been pivotal in transforming research into a viable commercial enterprise.
