Indian Researchers Create Biodegradable Plastic from Agricultural Waste

Scientists at IIT Delhi have developed a commercially viable biodegradable plastic made from rice straw and sugarcane bagasse — two of India's most abundant agricultural waste products. The material, branded 'AgriPlas', degrades completely within 90 days in regular soil conditions while matching the strength and flexibility of conventional LDPE plastic used in packaging.

From Farm Waste to Plastic

The process involves extracting cellulose nanofibers from agricultural residue and combining them with a proprietary blend of natural polymers and plant-based plasticizers. The resulting material can be processed on existing plastic manufacturing equipment, making it immediately adoptable by the packaging industry without requiring new machinery.

Cost comparison shows AgriPlas at Rs 85 per kg compared to Rs 70 per kg for conventional LDPE. However, the researchers argue that when environmental costs and the upcoming plastic waste management fees are factored in, AgriPlas becomes cheaper. Additionally, the raw material cost is essentially zero since farmers currently burn the crop residue, causing massive air pollution.

"India generates 500 million tonnes of agricultural waste annually, most of which is burned. AgriPlas turns this pollution problem into an economic opportunity while solving the plastic pollution crisis — it's a double win," said Professor Anoop Kumar, the project lead.

Three major FMCG companies — Dabur, ITC, and Marico — have signed pilot agreements to test AgriPlas packaging for their products. The Delhi government has expressed interest in mandating AgriPlas for all government procurement packaging. IIT Delhi has filed patents in 14 countries and is establishing a pilot manufacturing plant in Karnal, Haryana, that will be operational by mid-2026.