Bio-degradable products are gaining popularity these days as most plastic products are banned around the world. The natural straw, a substitute to plastic straws, introduced by the Indian startup Blessing Palms Private Limited, becomes significant at this point. It was their goal of converting agri-waste into useful eco-friendly products that resulted in the production of straws out of coconut leaves.
The straws are made after processing the coconut leaves through steaming to make it anti-fungal. According to Saji Varghese, CEO of Blessing Palms, these natural straws can be put in all sorts of liquid for more than 6 hours. In rural areas, the company provides straw making training to women with a vision to provide them with employment.
As part of improving production operations, the company is upgrading their technology so that women can meet the demand. In the last year, Blessing Palms has received orders for 10 mn straws, says Saji Varghese. He adds that the company has plans to extend its activities to 22 other locations in South India.
