Green innovation: NIT Rourkela turns flower waste into packaging

Rourkela: Researchers from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela, have successfully created eco-friendly packaging with the help of biodegradable material using waste flowers. It is a big achievement by the team of researchers.   Their determination paid dividends; they have now received a patent from the Indian government. Credit goes to the research team led by retired chemistry professor Raj Kishore Patel, along with Souvik Mandal, Sudipta Pahari, and Abhijit Behera, who did commendable work on the progress of the project during their tenure at NIT-Rourkela.

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“In Rourkela alone, around 2.5 tonnes of flowers are thrown away every day. Across India, the number is even higher,” said Professor Patel. “Our technology not only tackles plastic pollution but also puts flower waste to good use.” The process involves treating discarded flowers, mixing them with polyvinyl alcohol, and adding glycerol to make the material flexible. The result is strong, affordable, and environmentally friendly packaging. It can be used in many industries, such as agriculture, food, retail, FMCG, and logistics.

This innovation is not just about reducing waste. It also opens the door to new jobs and businesses — especially for people working with flowers, like florists, temple workers, and small-scale collectors. As Professor Patel puts it, “This is not just about packaging — it’s about changing how we look at waste and the environment. We’re turning something that’s thrown away into something valuable.”

Talks are already happening with two companies to begin commercial production. The researchers hope this invention will lead to new opportunities for small businesses to produce something new and increase their earnings as well, especially in such areas where flower waste takes place in plenty.