In a major environmental breakthrough, Kerala is poised to become the first state in India to launch compostable, eco-friendly organic water bottles, designed to replace traditional plastic bottles. The new product, branded as “Hilly Aqua,” is expected to set a new benchmark in sustainability by offering a biodegradable alternative to the widespread plastic waste problem.
The official launch of the Hilly Aqua bottles is scheduled for mid-January and will be inaugurated by Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan. This initiative is the result of a collaborative effort between the Kerala Irrigation Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (KIIDC) and the startup Green Bio Products, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Eigh Group.
The idea for the innovative water bottles was first conceived when Kerala’s Minister for Water Resources, Roshy Augustine, showed a keen interest in a prototype developed by Green Bio Products at an exhibition held in Mumbai in 2019. Encouraged by the potential, Green Bio Products embarked on the journey of bringing this eco-friendly concept to fruition. The bottles are made using biodegradable raw materials that have received certification from both domestic and global agencies, ensuring their environmental compatibility.
The initial distribution of Hilly Aqua bottles will be targeted at high-footfall locations, such as popular tourist destinations, where the demand for bottled water is substantial. Kerala plans to roll out the product in phases, with the aim of eventually expanding it to a wider market across the state.
The compostable nature of the bottles means that, once discarded, they will decompose naturally without contributing to plastic pollution, a growing issue that has long plagued the environment. By providing a sustainable option for consumers, Kerala is taking a significant step toward reducing its reliance on single-use plastic and promoting a circular economy. The state is also aligning its efforts with the broader goal of achieving sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
As the first state in India to launch such a product, Kerala’s initiative is expected to inspire other regions to explore similar eco-friendly alternatives. The use of biodegradable materials aligns with global environmental movements, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which emphasize responsible consumption and production.
Furthermore, this move is expected to not only have a positive environmental impact but also open new avenues for innovation in packaging and waste management sectors. The state is aiming to create a ripple effect, where the success of this project can lead to greater adoption of sustainable practices in industries like hospitality, tourism, and retail.
Environmentalists have welcomed the initiative, noting that Kerala’s proactive approach could spark a broader shift in the national conversation about plastic waste management. The project is seen as a potential game-changer in the country’s battle against plastic pollution, offering a viable alternative to an issue that affects both local ecosystems and global health.
With the launch of Hilly Aqua bottles, Kerala is sending a powerful message to the rest of the country and the world: the future of packaging and waste management lies in sustainable, eco-friendly solutions that benefit both people and the planet. The state’s commitment to sustainability is not only paving the way for cleaner, greener alternatives but also positioning it as a leader in the fight against plastic pollution.
