My vision is to build a plastic-free tomorrow

Green Business

Ayush Shukla is the co-founder, Biomandii- an eco-friendly marketplace that addresses the pressing issue of plastic pollution by offering sustainable alternatives to traditional products

Q: Why did you start Biomandii?

I am a passionate advocate for sustainability and have been inspired by the environmental challenges that I have witnessed during my college days in Delhi, particularly the alarming levels of plastic pollution. Upon reflecting on the lack of effective implementation of the ban on single-use plastics, my co-founder and I set out to research solutions that could bring real change. Our answer was Biomandii, a marketplace that offered eco-friendly products, from packaging to daily essentials, providing an alternative to plastic-heavy options.

Q: What were the challenges you faced and overcame?

Starting a business is never easy, especially when you lack a family background in entrepreneurship. I must confess to facing initial challenges of launching Biomandii without the typical support structures. Contrary to popular belief, I think having a strong business idea and market presence is more important than having capital upfront. This mindset allowed me to secure support from various institutions, including the government and universities, which eventually helped establish Biomandii as a credible player in the eco-friendly space.

Q: What do you feel about tackling plastic pollution in India?

Plastic pollution is a growing concern in India, and we are determined to make a difference through Biomandii. Single-use plastic is one of the biggest contributors to environmental degradation, particularly in urban areas. Biomandii aims to provide sustainable alternatives that are affordable and accessible to businesses and consumers alike. By dispelling the myth that eco-friendly products are always more expensive, we hope to encourage more individuals and companies to make the switch to sustainable options.

Q: How do you work on quality through vendor onboarding?

One of the key differentiators for Biomandii is its strict quality control and vendor onboarding process. Our company works with a select number of manufacturers, ensuring credibility by personally visiting warehouses and verifying government certifications, such as FSSAI and CPCB licenses. This meticulous approach not only guarantees product quality but also helps build trust with customers and partners.

Q: What are your future plans?

Our vision for Biomandii extends far beyond the Indian market. We have ambitious plans to expand our range of sustainable products and become the go-to solution for individuals seeking eco-friendly alternatives. While the company is currently focused on India, we have set our sights on taking Indian-made sustainable products to the global market in the near future. My ultimate goal is to position Biomandii as the leading sustainability company, not just in India but worldwide.

Q: How would you describe your journey so far?

My journey with Biomandii is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. By addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges—plastic pollution—I am not only creating a successful business but also driving a positive change. With a strong foundation, a clear vision, and a growing network of collaborators, Biomandii is poised to become a key player in the global sustainability movement.