Building materials from waste plastic

Could this innovative recycling technology combat India's growing plastic waste problem?

Spotted: Plastic waste is a massive problem, but some countries’ infrastructure is more equipped to deal with the rubbish than others. Every country has a different Plastic Overshoot Day during the year, for instance, when the nation’s waste management can no longer cope with the volume of plastic waste being produced. For India in 2023, this happened just a few days into the year on the 6th of January. Startup Ricron wants to change that.

The Gujarat-based company uses its proprietary technology to upcycle low-value, multi-layer plastic waste (like the kind used in food packaging) into durable and lightweight building materials. From the waste, Ricron creates either plain panels or full roof sheets, both of which are extremely strong, waterproof, and fire-resistant. Plus, the circular materials will not rust and are resistant to fungus and pests like termites.

Ricron’s panels and sheets are extremely versatile and suitable for use both inside and outside a building. For instance, the panels can be used to build doors, office counters, or even outdoor benches. The roofs, meanwhile, will keep building inhabitants protected from both extreme heat and wet weather.

According to the company, its technology already recycles around 5,000 tonnes of plastic a year and its materials prevent deforestation caused by sourcing wood-based alternative materials, as well as limit carbon emissions.

The company recently completed a series A funding round led by Boon Sustainability. The money will help Ricron expand to new manufacturing sites and boost its recycling capacity.

Written By: Matilda Cox