Innovation

Mr. Saurabh Mehta, an electronic engineer, left his job to join his family’s disposable plastic bin business. While working in the industry, he realized the pervasive and excessive use of plastic in daily life. This revelation sparked his commitment to finding more sustainable alternatives. In 2017, he identified a significant gap in the Indian market: the absence of eco-friendly stationery options.

Driven by this insight, Mr. Mehta conceptualized creating stationery made from natural materials and recycled waste. His vision was not just to provide functional products but also to encourage a shift in consumer mindset toward sustainability. He aimed to bridge the gap between functionality and environmental responsibility, making eco-conscious choices more accessible and appealing to the masses.

By repurposing waste and embracing natural resources, he sought to reduce dependence on plastic, a material with devastating ecological consequences. His initiative symbolized a movement toward mindful consumption and innovation, rooted in a desire to protect the planet for future generations.

Through his journey, Mr. Mehta transformed a conventional business model into one aligned with modern sustainability goals, demonstrating how personal passion and a sense of responsibility can lead to meaningful change.

Inspiration

It was this realization that set him on a path to create change. Recognizing the lack of sustainable alternatives in the Indian market, he decided to challenge the status quo. “In 2017, I noticed how even simple items like pens and notebooks relied heavily on plastic. It seemed unnecessary, especially when nature and recycled materials could provide better solutions,” he explained.

Mr. Mehta’s vision extended beyond creating products—it was about driving a movement. “I wanted to inspire people to rethink their choices. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life we need to embrace,” he emphasized.

Overall impact

The short term effects of innovation include the lesser use of plastic in an item as simple as a pen. Mr. Mehta emphasised that a pen's body comprises of 70% plastic, and the part that we use to write if also made out of plastic. Therefore, by making items out of recycled materials, the need of a plastic body is limited to one time purchase. This increases the longetivity of the product because only the refill is replaced, while the body can remain the same.

The long term implication of the venture was the innovation of sustainable stationery. This could eventually help in eliminating plastic to a bigger extent in the field. The eventual integration of the practice can create an impactful change for the planet.

Business benefit

The business introduced innovative strategies and expanded operations, several positive outcomes have materialized. First, the launch of new initiatives led to hiring 15-20 full-time employees across both businesses, strengthening operational capacity. These hires brought in diverse skill sets, allowing the businesses to cater to growing demands and maintain a high level of service quality. The closely-knit organizational structure has further enhanced teamwork and collaboration, ensuring that every employee feels valued and supported. 

Regular communication channels and activities, such as addressing employee concerns and organizing events like Yoga Day and office parties, have fostered a positive work environment. This culture of inclusivity and engagement has played a significant role in achieving an impressive retention rate of 70-80%. Employees remain motivated and committed, which translates into better productivity and consistency in business operations. 

Furthermore, these innovations have opened new revenue streams and market opportunities. By focusing on employee well-being and operational efficiency, the business has established itself as a trusted entity in its industry, attracting new clients and investors. These efforts not only improve the bottom line but also create a sustainable foundation for long-term growth and success.

Social and environmental benefit

Mr. Saurabh Mehta’s innovation of creating sustainable stationery benefits society and the environment by addressing two critical issues: reducing plastic waste and promoting a culture of environmental responsibility. By replacing plastic-based products with those made from natural and recycled materials, his initiative directly contributes to decreasing the environmental burden of plastic pollution.

The stationery line encourages individuals and institutions to make eco-friendly choices, thereby fostering greater environmental awareness. Schools, offices, and businesses that adopt these products set examples for their communities, helping normalize sustainable practices. This ripple effect creates a societal shift where environmental consciousness becomes an integral part of daily decision-making.

On a broader scale, the use of recycled materials helps conserve natural resources and reduce energy consumption associated with manufacturing. By diverting waste from landfills, the innovation also helps lower greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.

For society, the innovation demonstrates how practical and affordable alternatives can make a positive impact, encouraging other entrepreneurs to embrace sustainability. It also educates consumers, empowering them to make informed, ethical choices. Mr. Mehta’s initiative not only tackles immediate environmental challenges but also lays the foundation for a more sustainable and responsible future.

Interview

Saurabh Mehta, Founder

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