Innovation

MittiCool was founded by Mansukh bhai Prajapati post Gujarat earthquake in 2001, and is today a leading business that leverages grassroots innovation to address societal challenges. Located in Wakaner, Gujarat, their primary innovation is the creation of affordable and sustainable alternatives of electric refrigeration, crucial to regions with erratic electricity access. The flagship product, the MittiCool fridge, employs the principles of porosity and water evaporation in clay to naturally cool its compartments without electricity. This innovation was born as a response to the economic constraints faced by backward and poverty ridden communities, where the cost of refrigeration and electricity were a barrier to accessibility.

MittiCool's innovative solution aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as

1. good health and well-being' by providing means for food preservation without electricity.

2. gender equality' through the employment of rural women.

3. 'affordable and clean energy' by offering an energy-efficient cooling solution.

The business also contributes to the goal of 'sustainable cities and communities' by promoting traditional craftsmanship and 'responsible consumption and production' by making eco-friendly clay products. By the blending of traditional practices with modern ingenuity, this business portays a vision for a better world through its commitment to economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and social well-being.

Mansukhbhai Raghanbhai Prajapati is the visionary founder of Mitticool, creating earthenware products with innovative, eco-friendly methods.

Inspiration

In 1988, at the age of 20, Mansukhbhai embarked on this journey to challenge traditional pottery techniques, primarily focusing on crafting pans from clay. Two years of stubborn, unending effort led to the successful development of an innovative homemade system for pan production, overcoming the challenges of waste creation due to breaking thousands of pans in the process. This pivotal moment was the motivation for him to preserve the dying art of traditional pottery, and to simplify and make it less harmful for artisans.

The turning point in this entrepreneurial journey occurred in the aftermath of the Gujarat earthquake of 2001. The widespread destruction and headlines lamenting the loss of refrigerators, often referring to "the poor man's refrigerator," inspired Mansukhbhai. This event prompted him to pivot from crafting pans and candle filters to creating his most renowned invention – the MittiCool refrigerator.

Motivated by the earthquake's impact on impoverished communities and the realization of the crucial role that earthen pots could play as affordable refrigeration alternative, he shifted his focus and founded MittiCool. The flagship MittiCool refrigerator emerged as a solution to provide cooling without electricity, particularly for those unable to afford electric refrigerators or in areas lacking electricity, such as military deployments.

The development of the refrigerator took four years, underscoring the complexity involved in crafting a sustainable and effective cooling solution from clay. This extended timeline highlights his commitment in bringing the revolutionary refrigerator to fruition.

In summary, Mansukhbhai's entrepreneurial journey evolved from traditional pottery to the creation of MittiCool, with the earthquake of 2001 serving as a pivotal moment that led to the development of the MittiCool refrigerator, echoing the sentiment that earthen pots are indeed the "poor man's refrigerator." This timeline reflects his commitment to preserving tradition, addressing societal needs, and contributing to a sustainable and healthier world.

Overall impact

Mansukh Prajapati's innovations are notable for their focus on sustainability, affordability, and the use of traditional materials and techniques. The Mitticool products cater to a market looking for eco-friendly alternatives and solutions for everyday needs, especially in regions facing challenges such as limited access to electricity or clean water.

Prajapati's most notable innovation is the development of a range of kitchenware and cookware made entirely from clay. One of his groundbreaking inventions is the Mitticool fridge. Mitticool also produces a variety of clay cookware, including pots, pans, and tawas (griddles). These products are designed to be an eco-friendly alternative to metal cookware.They have developed clay water filters that use the natural filtering properties of clay to purify water. These filters are designed to remove impurities and provide clean drinking water.

Apart from the above-mentioned innovations, Mitticool offers a range of other clay products like water bottles, glasses, and other kitchenware items. These products are not only environmentally friendly but also contribute to the preservation of traditional pottery skills.

Business benefit

MittiCool, an innovative enterprise led by Mansukhbhai Prajapati, has transformed the living in rural India. The introduction of the MittiCool fridge, a revolutionary clay-based refrigeration system, marked a turning point in the business. This eco-friendly innovation not only addresses the issue of food preservation in areas with erratic electricity but also aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

It contributes to 'good health and well-being' by providing an affordable and natural cooling alternative, 'gender equality' by employing rural women and empowering them economically, 'affordable and clean energy' through its electricity-free cooling, 'sustainable cities and communities' by reviving traditional pottery craft, and 'responsible consumption and production' by offering eco-friendly products.

This business impact is not limited to societal benefits alone; it has proven to be a lucrative business venture. The refrigerator opened new markets, attracted diverse consumer segments, and created a portfolio of 721 products. By integrating traditional craftsmanship with innovative designs, the products have found a place in the global market, garnering interest from renowned companies like Bosch and Siemens Hausgerate (BSH) and collaboration with the retail giant Future Group.

Social and environmental benefit

The innovation of MittiCool has numerous benefits for society and the environment. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the way people store and preserve food, particularly in rural areas where electricity is still erratic. The non-stick clay tawa and other products developed by MittiCool are not only affordable but also use less oil and preserve the natural aroma and taste of the food.

The clay products are made from materials collected from carpenter sites, ensuring zero waste during the production process. This eco-friendly approach reduces the environmental impact of MittiCool's products, as they do not harm the environment during their production, use, or disposal.

The innovation of MittiC\ool also benefits the local pottery community by providing employment opportunities and promoting traditional skills. By collaborating with retail giants like Big Bazaar, MittiCool is also contributing to the growth of the economy and supporting local businesses.

In conclusion, the innovation of MittiCool has numerous benefits for society and the environment. By providing affordable, eco-friendly, and healthy products, it is helping to improve the lives of people in rural areas and promoting sustainable consumption. Additionally, the innovation is supporting local artisans and contributing to the growth of the economy. Overall, MittiCool is an inspiring example of how innovation and sustainability can work together to create a better future for all.

Interview

Mansukh bhai Prajapati, Founder