Startup Replaces 6 Million Plastic Bags with Corn-Based Alternative.

In the bustling city of Hyderabad, a young entrepreneur, Mohammed Azhar Mohiuddin, is tackling one of the world's most pressing environmental issues: plastic pollution. Through his innovative startup, Bio Reform, Mohiuddin has developed a biodegradable alternative to the plastic shopping bag, made from sugar, cellulose, and corn fibers—a product that decomposes within 180 days.

Mohiuddin's journey began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when global environmental concerns were magnified. He found himself increasingly worried about society's overreliance on plastic and the dangers posed by microplastics, which have permeated everything from our oceans to our bloodstream. Determined to make a difference, he focused on creating an affordable alternative to plastic bags, especially for the small and medium-sized businesses that drive India's economy.

While large brands in India were beginning to shift to biodegradable options like paper and jute bags, Mohiuddin noticed that these alternatives were often too expensive for smaller businesses. He began researching Polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT), a biodegradable polymer developed in the 1980s from corn and potatoes. After navigating various challenges—including dodging scams, enduring government-mandated quarantines, and identifying the right machinery in Gujarat—Mohiuddin secured nearly $100,000 in seed funding to kickstart his venture.

The path to success was far from smooth. Balancing his university studies with the demands of launching a startup, Mohiuddin faced bankruptcy and a growing backlog of orders. Yet, through sheer determination, Bio Reform finally turned a profit, and today, the company produces nearly 500,000 biodegradable bags each year, generating a gross revenue of $180,000.

Mohiuddin's motivation stems from the urgent need to address plastic pollution. "Issues related to plastic pollution are not limited to affecting aquatic life and animals anymore. Today, microplastic has reached our bloodstream," he explained in an interview with The Better India. "Bottled water contains microplastics. Addressing this is an important and urgent problem."

Despite the challenges of balancing his entrepreneurial responsibilities with his studies, Mohiuddin remains committed to his mission. "It is sometimes taxing to not lead a regular college life but in the end, it is all worth it. I feel content when I go back to sleep. But much more needs to be done to make India plastic-free, and I will continue to strive for it," he adds.

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Here is some more information sourced from Mohiuddin's About Us on BioReform.in

Competing against over 300 student entrepreneurs from across Telangana, Bio Reform secured a coveted spot in the top 10 startups selected by the incubator, a testament to the potential and impact of their vision.

Unlike traditional plastic bags, which can persist in the environment for thousands of years, polluting both land and marine ecosystems, Bio Reform's products offer a sustainable alternative. What sets the company apart is its commitment to customization—offering personalized biodegradable bags with custom printing and branding to meet the unique needs of their customers.

Bio Reform’s mission is clear: to fight the global challenge of plastic pollution by raising awareness and providing consumers with economical, eco-friendly alternatives. The company is not just focused on the present but has a bold vision for the future. By 2030, Bio Reform aims to revolutionize the entire packaging industry, shifting it towards green packaging solutions. They are committed to promoting awareness, increasing the availability of biodegradable products, and leading the market in sustainable packaging innovations.

Over the next decade, Bio Reform's goal is to eliminate the use of conventional plastics by introducing new, eco-friendly products that minimize pollution and protect the environment. Their journey is just beginning, but with a strong foundation and a clear vision, Bio Reform is poised to make a significant impact on the world.