Kochi startup Greenbio Products makes compostable PLA bottles to replace PET plastic

Kochi-based Greenbio Products has developed compostable bottles made from polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable material sourced from corn starch, sugarcane, or cassava. Unlike PET plastic, these bottles break down into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass under industrial composting, offering a renewable alternative for water packaging. The state-owned Hilly Aqua has already adopted them, and the startup supplies preforms to Crisil in Malappuram. Greenbio plans to limit Kerala partnerships to three and expand to other Indian states and Dubai, supplying raw materials internationally and preforms domestically. The company is also developing biodegradable straws and liquor bottles, and has applied for manufacturing space in Kerala, currently outsourcing to Tamil Nadu factories. Degradation takes about a month industrially, or three to four months in natural conditions.