Plastic pollution is a global challenge that silently penetrated unsuspecting towns and cities somewhere along the 1950s. Since then, it has not taken a step back from any place, with a few villages and small towns as the exceptions. Plastic waste end up in our oceans every year, with single-use items like cutlery, straws, and stirrers commonly found in coastal cleanups. The troubling reality is that it can take up to 1,000 years for plastic to decompose. In such an atmosphere, the youth has to rise together to clean the mess that its ancestors have created. One among such youth-led pro-environment group is the Enactus MLNC, that works on a groundbreaking project to combat plastic pollution and foster sustainability- Aapurti.
Lower pollution, lesser threats to the living
A conversation with the project head, Bhavika Garg enlightens one on the beauty of plastic alternatives that also taste good. She says, “taking on the challenge of plastic pollution, we have developed fully biodegradable edible cutlery made from natural ingredients, ensuring it’s safe for human consumption and poses no harm to animals if accidentally ingested. Beyond its eco-friendly nature, our product boasts a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to conventional plastic and metal cutlery.” The manufacturing process for Aapurti’s edible cutlery is simple yet effective. Bhavika elaborates, “we combine flour, wheat, and rice, shape them into utensils, and bake them until they become firm and edible. The result is sturdy and delicious cutlery that can be enjoyed as part of the meal or even as a dessert.” To enhance the overall experience, the product is presented in packaging designed to intrigue customers and prioritise their satisfaction. “Moreover,” Bhavika adds, “Aapurti aims to make this eco-friendly alternative accessible to all by setting an affordable price, ensuring that sustainability doesn’t come at a high cost.”
Starting a project is not easy and comes with many challenges. The first big challenge for the Enactus group, as students, was to create a trustworthy brand image as the first step in making an eco-friendly alternative to plastic cutlery. “We began by brainstorming and identifying social issues related to plastic waste, recognising the urgency of sustainable solutions. The next piece of the puzzle was perfecting the taste and feel of our cutlery. Overcoming this required extensive experimentation with various ingredients and manufacturing methods,” says Bhavika. Through dedicated effort and a commitment to innovation, the team triumphed over the challenge, emerging with an eco-friendly cutlery solution that not only meets but exceeds expectations in both sensory experience and environmental impact.
Flowering dreams
Project Apurti always aims to make a real difference. Bhavika continues, “our eco-friendly cutlery not only tastes and feels great but also helps create a sustainable future, showing our commitment to responsible consumer choices. We hope this will eventually contribute to our broader goals and support the mission of our non-profit organisation in the long run.” One goal has already been realised at Enactus- the team is thrilled to announce that their edible cutlery is available for delivery across Pan India. “With a growing community of over 3000 followers on the Enactus MLNC official page, we have expanded our reach. To place your order, you can DM us on ‘Project Aapurti’s’ Instagram handle visit our website. We are committed to providing a seamless and convenient experience for our customers nationwide, ensuring that our sustainable and innovative products are accessible to everyone,” Bhavika informs.
Currently, Aapurti has a range of edible straws, spoons, and cups that are suitable for individuals and businesses committed to reducing their carbon footprint. It has introduced the one of a kind edible Wheat Cups, crafted from wheat and refined oil, that offer a flavourful sipping experience infused with a blend of cocoa powder and vanilla essence. They are crafted by small bakers and underprivileged women, in turn empowering local communities. By purchasing them, the consumer takes a step towards social responsibility while enjoying a guilt-free indulgence. The remarkable eco-friendliness of these cups is one of their key features. The project head says, “with a decomposition time of just 5-6 days, they leave no waste behind and are entirely safe for human use. Furthermore, if disposed of responsibly, they provide a sustainable treat for street animals. By choosing our cups, you can make a meaningful contribution to a planet where every action counts.” Project Aapurti’s unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability propels it towards a constant exploration of novel options. To better cater to the needs of its clientele, the team is actively engaged in the development of additional products, including bowls and plates.
Going forward
Speaking about Enactus MLNC’s plans going forward, Bhavika shares, “we are committed to advancing its impact in the future by strategically expanding its product range and establishing a robust presence in various states. Project Aapurti’s vision includes a dedicated focus on promoting awareness about sustainable options that contribute to both individual well-being and environmental health. Through webinars, online and offline awareness sessions and through our social media page we have already influenced 10000+ people and are looking forward to doing more.” Through innovative initiatives, Enactus MLNC aims to not only diversify its offerings but also educate communities on the importance of making choices that align with sustainability, fostering a healthier and more environmentally conscious society.
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