Kerala is set to make history with the soon-to-be-launched India’s first eco-friendly compostable water bottles under the brand name ‘Hilly Aqua.’ The move of a Kerala-based startup is being considered as innovative. It is supported by the Kerala Irrigation Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (KIIDC) equipped with forward-thinking towards sustainable solutions in tackling plastic pollution.
The idea is not new as a prototype was showcased by Green Bio Products, a subsidiary of Eight Specialist Services, in 2019. Kerala’s Minister for Water Resources, Roshy Augustine, saw potential in the concept and to proceed with its commercial production. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is set to launch the product in mid-January.
The bottles are special for being eco-friendly. It is made from biodegradable materials which are certified by both domestic and international agencies. The bottles will be initially distributed in places like tourist spots and festivals. The later plan is to expand reach across Kerala and eventually the entire country.
The initiative is a statement and Kerala is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable innovation. It is showing the rest of the country that bold ideas can turn into impactful actions. Replacing plastic bottles with compostable ones is a step in the right direction.
However, there are some questions to be answered in the course of time. Will the bottles be affordable enough for widespread adoption? Will people embrace the bottles as they do traditional plastic bottles? These are the real challenges for the startup, but it is also encouraging to see the state has taken the first step.
Apart from all these, the compostable water bottles of Hilly Aqua could set an example for other states as well as industries. The project could be a game-changer in India’s fight against plastic pollution.
