Kerala Pioneers Government-Run Biodegradable Bottled Water Brand
In a significant environmental initiative, Kerala's Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine officially launched Hilly Aqua, a public-sector drinking water brand packaged exclusively in biodegradable bottles. This groundbreaking project is being spearheaded by the Kerala Irrigation Infrastructure Development Corporation (KIIDC) under the state's water resources department, marking a proactive step toward sustainable resource management.
Addressing Plastic Pollution with Innovative Solutions
Minister Augustine emphasized that the primary objective behind Hilly Aqua is to combat the escalating issue of plastic pollution, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions where green protocols are rigorously enforced. "This initiative targets major tourist destinations and other areas where plastic waste management is critical," he stated during the launch event in Thiruvananthapuram.
While existing regulations typically prohibit plastic water bottles smaller than 0.5 litres, Hilly Aqua's 300ml containers cleverly circumvent this restriction by utilizing eco-friendly materials. The bottles are manufactured from poly lactic acid (PLA) preforms, which are derived from natural starches such as corn and sugarcane. These innovative containers are designed to be lightweight and transparent, yet they possess the unique ability to compost under specific industrial conditions, ensuring they do not contribute to long-term atmospheric or land pollution.
Expanding Production and Distribution Networks
Currently, Hilly Aqua is being produced at dedicated plants located in Thodupuzha and Aruvikkara. However, the state government has ambitious plans to operationalize new manufacturing facilities in Kattappana and Aluva by next month. "We are also developing a fifth plant at Peruvannamuzhi to further enhance our production capacity," Augustine revealed.
The government has established a robust and widespread distribution network to ensure the availability of Hilly Aqua across Kerala. This network includes ration shops, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), and railway stations, making the eco-friendly bottled water accessible to a broad segment of the population. Notably, Kerala has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first state in India to export government-produced bottled water to international markets, showcasing its commitment to global environmental standards.
Supporting Local Innovation and Entrepreneurship
The raw materials required for this biodegradable venture are supplied by Eight Specialist Services, a Kochi-based startup. This collaboration highlights the government's dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology with local entrepreneurship, fostering an ecosystem of innovation and sustainability. "By partnering with local startups, we are not only addressing environmental challenges but also empowering homegrown businesses," Augustine added.
This initiative represents a holistic approach to environmental conservation, combining public-sector leadership with private-sector innovation to create a sustainable solution for plastic waste management in one of India's most biodiverse states.
