Innovation

This innovative business is tackling two major global issues—plastic waste and sustainable construction—by turning plastic waste into durable, eco-friendly building materials. The company is in a social contract that has developed a unique process that recycles up to 100% plastic waste, including hard-to-recycle multi-layer packaging, and combines it with industrial by-products to create concrete blocks. These blocks are not only stronger and lighter than traditional concrete but also have a longer lifespan, making them ideal for use in construction. The product is carbon-negative, meaning it helps reduce carbon emissions compared to conventional concrete.

Started in 2021, this initiative works closely with waste management startups and major corporations like Parle and ITC, which supply plastic waste. The company also partners with local governments and corporations, receiving support to process up to 2-3 tons of plastic waste daily. This collaboration allows them to create valuable, sustainable products while helping reduce the environmental impact of both plastic waste and traditional construction materials. One of their notable projects includes supplying eco-friendly materials for Bangalore Airport, showcasing the real-world impact of their innovation. Paving+ has successfully paved 15 lakh square feet of green material which reduced the impact of plastic wastes.

 To date Paving + has recycled 480 metric tons of plastic and 285 metric tons of industrial waste. Ultimately, this business proves that sustainability and innovation can work hand-in-hand to create a better, more inclusive future.

Inspiration

The leader of this innovative business, Mr. Ranjan Kumar along with his cofounder Mr. Sheikh Ziaur Rahaman, were deeply inspired by the growing issue of plastic waste and the opportunity to create a solution that could both reduce environmental impact and transform the construction industry. His passion for recycling and sustainability is clear: “We are clean, our piety for that’s because it’s 100% plastic waste.” This dedication to using plastic waste as a core material reflects his commitment to making a real difference in both the environment and the construction sector.

Ranjan’s drive was further fueled by the challenge of creating a product that was not only sustainable but also cost-effective. “When you’re talking about 100% waste, my superior parameter is out 3 of the cost, but when the P 20, there’s 70% of the cost of the concrete,” he explains. By developing a lightweight, durable product made from recycled plastic, he saw an opportunity to meet both market needs and environmental goals. The ability to transport these products over long distances, like from Kolkata to cities 500 kilometers away, further highlighted the potential of his innovation.

Ultimately, Mr. Ranjan’s vision is to revolutionize the construction industry with products that are not just environmentally friendly but also cost-effective, making them accessible to a wider audience. “Our hero product is PHP,” he proudly shares, emphasizing the impact of his solution, which he believes will be a game-changer for both the planet and the economy. His confidence in the product and its potential to change the market is a driving force behind his success.

Overall impact

The innovation by Paving+—transforming plastic waste into durable floor tiles—has had profound short-term and long-term effects, both environmentally and economically. In the short term, the company has significantly reduced the amount of plastic waste sent to landfills by repurposing it into eco-friendly construction materials. By utilizing cost-efficient recycling processes, Paving+ has achieved financial sustainability while creating jobs and supporting local communities.

In the long term, the innovation has established Paving+ as a pioneer in sustainable construction, positioning the company as a key player in the global push toward circular economies. Evidence of this impact can be seen in the growing demand for their products from environmentally conscious consumers and businesses, as well as the expansion of their market reach. The company has built strong partnerships with stakeholders who share their commitment to sustainability, enabling continuous growth and innovation.

Additionally, Paving+ has inspired other businesses and communities to adopt similar sustainable practices, amplifying their impact on a larger scale. The environmental benefits of reducing plastic waste, combined with the economic opportunities created through job generation and new market penetration, highlight the transformative potential of this innovation. By aligning profitability with environmental responsibility, Paving+ has proven that sustainability can be both a viable business strategy and a force for positive global change.

Business benefit

Because Paving+ has innovated by transforming plastic waste into durable and eco-friendly floor tiles, the business has experienced substantial growth and success. By addressing the dual challenge of plastic pollution and the need for sustainable construction materials, Paving+ has tapped into a growing market of environmentally conscious consumers and businesses. This unique innovation has allowed the company to open new revenue streams and establish itself as a sustainable building materials industry leader. The total revenue stands at Rs. 6.8 Crores with Rs. 2.8 Crores in 2023 and the company aims to close the year 2024 at Rs. 5 Crores.

The production process, which involves recycling plastic into high-quality tiles, has significantly reduced material costs while maintaining competitive pricing. This cost efficiency has enhanced profitability, enabling the business to reinvest in research, technology, and expansion. The gross profit is 35% with a net profit margin of 5%. The EBITDA stands at 9%. Furthermore, the demand for eco-friendly solutions has attracted new clients and partners, creating opportunities for market diversification and business scalability.

Beyond financial gains, this innovation has positively impacted the company’s workforce and community. Paving+ has strengthened its role as a socially responsible enterprise by creating new jobs and supporting local recycling initiatives with its factory presence in Kolkata, Delhi & Bangalore. Paving+ has employed 9 full-time employees and 70 contractual employees. Employees are motivated and engaged, taking pride in contributing to a mission-driven organization that aligns with their values. This alignment has improved employee retention and overall well-being. Moreover, the company provides health insurance to its employees and food, and clothing to its contractual employees, which uplifts their morale and motivates them to work towards the goal of the company. The company's commitment to sustainability has also attracted investors eager to support environmentally conscious businesses, opening doors to future growth and collaboration

Social and environmental benefit

At Paving+, a solution to the growing plastic waste crisis has been developed by transforming it into high-quality, durable floor tiles. The vision was established to repurpose non-biodegradable waste into valuable construction materials that enhance infrastructure while reducing environmental harm. A process combining sustainability and technology is utilized, where discarded plastic is meticulously processed and molded into functional, eco-friendly tiles.

Paving + has recycled 480 metric tons of plastic and 285 metric tons of industrial wastes which sums up to a clearing of 49,874 cubic feet of landfills and saved 12000 liters of fresh water thus supporting a circular economy. As a result, Paving+ has contributed significantly to reducing a carbon footprint of 960 metric tons which enhanced air quality and supported global climate goals.

Society benefits from reducing plastic pollution, conserving natural resources, and providing a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials. By focusing on local operations and communities, Paving+ ensures a tangible impact on the environment and people’s lives. At Paving+, the commitment to a greener and cleaner future is reflected in every product created.

Interview

Ranjan Kumar Gupta, Founder & CEO