In a major advancement for sustainable innovation, the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Rourkela has secured an Indian patent for a groundbreaking biodegradable packaging material developed from flower waste, the NIT sources said on Wednesday.
The invention titled ‘Multipurpose Biodegradable Packaging Material Prepared from Flower Waste’ represents a significant step toward addressing the pressing global concerns of plastic pollution and organic waste accumulation.
The patented technology is the result of extensive research carried out by Souvik Mandal, Sudipta Pahari, and Abhijit Behera, under the guidance of retired Professor Raj Kishore Patel from the Department of Chemistry.
The researchers have developed a method that transforms floral waste typically discarded in large volumes into a durable, non-toxic, and compostable packaging solution.
The team leader narrates
“Approximately 2.5 tonnes of floral waste are discarded every day in Rourkela City alone. Considered at a national scale, the environmental and economic potential of this innovation is profound. It not only provides an effective solution to the challenges of organic waste management but also opens avenues for livelihood creation, particularly among the local floriculturists, religious institutions, as well as small-scale waste collectors. This invention redefines the future of packaging from disposability to responsibility, and from waste to worth,” expressed Prof. RK Patel.
The biodegradable packaging developed by NIT Rourkela is a notable one for its mechanical strength and suitability across a variety of sectors, including agriculture, food packaging, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), retail, and logistics. It decomposes by over 95 percent within 50 days, leaves behind no toxic residues or microplastics, and results in nutrient-rich compost containing carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, contributing positively to soil health and the broader ecosystem.
Commercially viable technology
The technology is not only environmentally sound but also commercially viable. Following the patent’s approval, discussions have commenced with two companies regarding the commencement of commercial production. Its scalability, low-cost raw materials, and adaptability to existing industrial processes make it an attractive option for businessmen seeking sustainable alternatives.
The innovation also holds promise for creating micro-entrepreneurial ventures in regions abundant with floral biomass, helping bridge environmental responsibility with inclusive economic development.
The social and economic benefits of the technology extend to the grassroots level. By creating demand for floral waste and enabling local collection networks, the invention empowers rural communities and supports decentralised models of resource utilisation.
In addition to its practical applications, the technology aligns with national and global sustainability standards. It supports India’s Plastic Waste Management Rules and complies with the international biodegradable packaging benchmarks such as EN 13432 and ASTM D6400.
Furthermore, the material meets relevant ISO and BIS standards, while contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production, and Goal 13 on Climate Action.
This patent highlights NIT Rourkela’s commitment to interdisciplinary research with real-world impact. By integrating material science, environmental engineering, and sustainable design, the invention has introduced a timely and innovative solution that addresses the environmental challenges of the packaging industry.
As the world shifts toward circular economy models and sustainable industrial practices, this invention places India at the forefront of responsible, scalable innovation.