A startup company GaeaStar works on a new progression in the realm of food packaging and it is a 3D-printed cup made from clay materials. It stems from the fact that way too many dispensable coffee cups are discarded on a yearly basis and these new cups are made only from three ingredients -- dirt, salt, and some water. It is able to turn into dust after it is done being used.
This is inspired by ancient practices, specifically an old Indian technique that is used to create biodegradable containers. This idea came to fruition when founder and CEO Sanjeev Mankotia was visiting family in New Delhi and noticed his cousin throw out a terracotta cup filled with chai. When noting that she littered, she responded that the cup was made from dirt.
Smashable Biodegradable Cups
GaeaStar Develops a New Cup From Only Three Ingredients
Trend Themes
1. Biodegradable Packaging - The trend of replacing single-use plastic packaging with biodegradable alternatives opens up opportunities for companies to innovate and create sustainable solutions using natural materials.
2. 3D Printing - The trend of using 3D printing to create sustainable products, such as biodegradable cups made from clay, presents an opportunity for businesses to streamline their manufacturing processes and reduce waste.
3. Ancient Practices - The trend of looking to ancient techniques and practices, such as the Indian technique used to create biodegradable containers, provides inspiration for businesses to create innovative and sustainable solutions based on time-tested methods.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry can capitalize on the trend of biodegradable packaging by offering eco-friendly alternatives to traditional packaging, such as biodegradable cups made from natural materials.
2. Manufacturing - The trend of using 3D printing to create sustainable products presents opportunities for manufacturers to streamline their production processes and reduce waste by using natural materials and biodegradable alternatives.
3. Sustainability - The trend of creating sustainable solutions, such as biodegradable packaging and products, provides opportunities for businesses to position themselves as leaders in sustainability and meet the growing demand for environmentally-friendly products and practices.