In response, Arth Biobags has emerged as a pioneering force in promoting global environmental sustainability. The company offers eco-friendly packaging materials proudly manufactured in Rwandaâ€"a vision deeply inspired by Rwanda's groundbreaking decision nearly two decades ago to ban plastic bags.
Supported by a $10 million investment, Arth Biobags turns agricultural by-products into compostable packaging blending cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainable innovation.
In 2022, Arth Biobags joined the global fight against plastic pollution by introducing eco-friendly, plant-based packaging solutions in Rwanda.
Founded by Sidharth Bohra who also serves as the Managing Director, the company has quickly established itself as a leader in sustainable innovation.
'Our packaging solutions are made from plant-based materials and they are 100% eco-friendly,' says Bohra, underscoring the company's mission to replace non-eco-friendly plastics with alternatives that are both environmentally friendly and home compostable.
Operating out of its processing facility in Kigali, Arth Biobags initially focused on flexible packaging. These products cater to diverse industries, including food processing, agriculture, and meat production, as well as small and medium enterprises.
Bohra highlights the impact of the local business environment on the company's success.
'The Rwandan business environment and the support from the government are very excellent. The way they have enforced the plastic ban and their aggressive actions to eliminate plastic from the market have been instrumental,' he notes.
This support has positioned Arth Biobags as a key player in providing sustainable alternatives aligned with Rwanda's environmental goals.
Innovation lies at the heart of Arth Biobags' operations. The company has developed two proprietary, plant-based polymers under its Arth Biobags initiative.
These materials are not only eco-friendly but also fall under the home compostable category, meaning they can break down naturally within 120 to 150 days.
'We started doing prototypes of various products to find the right fit for the market,' Bohra explains. 'Now, our intention is to manufacture this biopolymer locally within Rwanda.'
While raw materials were initially sourced externally, the company is building a state-of-the-art facility in Rwanda's Special Economic Zone to enable local production.
This move is expected to significantly reduce costs, minimize import dependency, and boost the country's exports. 'We are trying to bring the cost almost to half of the plastic cost,' Bohra shares. 'This solution will be 100% made in Rwanda and exported to other parts of the world, bringing more forex gain for the country.'
Beyond its economic benefits, Arth Biobags' home compostable packaging offers a transformative solution to waste management challenges, particularly in regions lacking proper waste segregation facilities.
'If you dump them on the ground or any composting site, these materials will naturally degrade into manure for the soil without leaving toxic chemicals or heavy metals,' Bohra explains. 'Basically, this will act as food for the soil, nourishing it and contributing to agricultural sustainability.'
The impact of this innovation extends far beyond Rwanda's borders. Bohra reveals that demand for their solutions is growing across Africa and Asia, where governments and industries are seeking sustainable packaging alternatives.
'Various parts of Africa have started contacting us to understand how we can supply this solution to them,' he says. 'The raw materialsâ€"starch, cellulose, and fibers derived from plantsâ€"can all be produced locally with our new facility. This is the vision with which Arth Biobags is leading the market.'
Bohra sees Rwanda as an ideal hub for such groundbreaking work. 'Rwanda is a very attractive place for investors and technology solution providers,' he notes, crediting the government's strong enforcement of the plastic ban and commitment to sustainability. He adds, 'From Rwanda, we are trying to develop a solution that is made in Rwanda but for the world.'
As Arth Biobags scales its operations, it remains steadfast in its mission to replace harmful plastics with sustainable alternatives. 'Plastic is a challenge across the world,' Bohra states.
'This solution doesn't just fill the gap left by the plastic ban but also protects the environment from the adverse impacts of plastic pollution.'
With its innovative approach, Arth Biobags is setting an example for how local ingenuity can drive global change, creating a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
IGIHE
