INR 2000 Crore PLA Venture Aims to Replace Single-Use Plastics and Combat Climate Change
Balrampur Chini Mills Limited (BCML), India’s one of the integrated sugar mill complexes, announced a significant step towards sustainability and business diversification with its upcoming Polylactic Acid (PLA) manufacturing venture. This ambitious project aligns with the Indian government’s vision of achieving net zero emissions by 2070 and marks the establishment of the country’s first-ever industrial bio-plastic plant.
The new venture, estimated to cost Rs. 2000 crores in phases over 2.5 years, aims to revolutionize plastic production in India. The state-of-the-art PLA factory, boasting a global-scale capacity of 75,000 tonnes per annum, will utilize sugarcane as a raw material, marking a shift towards circular and regenerative manufacturing principles. This shift has the potential to replace a significant portion of India’s current single-use plastic consumption with eco-friendly PLA and its compounds.
Leading the Charge with Expertise
To spearhead this groundbreaking initiative, BCML has appointed Mr. Stefan Barot, an industry veteran with over 35 years of experience in bioplastics, as the President (Chemicals). Additionally, BCML’s strategic minority stake acquisition in Konkan Speciality Polyproducts Private Limited (Konspec), a renowned player in specialty polymers and biopolymers, further strengthens the venture’s foundation.
Vivek Saraogi, CMD, Balrampur Chini Mills Limited said “PLA offers a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics, aligning with our commitment to environmental responsibility. This project positions BCML as an industry pioneer, showcasing innovation and environmental consciousness while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.”
Mr. Vinod Bondal, Managing Director of Konspec said “We are excited to collaborate with BCML on creating a sustainable and circular economy, contributing to a greener environment and supporting industry-wide EPR compliance.”
Balrampur Chini Mills’ PLA manufacturing venture presents a groundbreaking opportunity for India. By embracing bio-based and biodegradable materials, the company is not only ensuring its own sustainable growth but also paving the way for a greener future for the entire nation. This project has the potential to significantly reduce plastic pollution, create new job opportunities, and establish India as a leader in the global bioplastics market.