Indian Brands Using Coconut Waste to Create Sustainable Products

'Nariyal', 'Thengai', 'Kobbari Kayalu'; the 'Kalpavriksha' has many names and a special place in Indian kitchend. Coconut has always been more than just a fruit in India; it is woven into our traditions, rituals, cuisines, and folklore. From being broken at temple steps as a symbol of purity to flavouring curries, chutneys, and sweets, or enriching hair oil and skincare, the coconut has been celebrated in countless ways. Yet, for all its uses, vast amounts of shells, husks, and coir have historically been treated as by-products, left behind in processing units, piling up in markets, or discarded without thought. For decades, this waste was invisible, seen as residue rather than a resource. Indian brands utilising coconut waste are now demonstrating to the world that shells, husks, and even wastewater have enormous potential. By transforming discarded coconut parts into kitchenware, fibres, or even leather-like materials. Check out this list of Indian brands.

Thenga Coco

Based in Kerala, Thenga Coco specialises in crafting coconut shell kitchenware. Instead of allowing shells to pile up as discarded waste, the brand transforms them into bowls, spoons, and mugs that are both functional and aesthetic. Each product retains the natural charm of the coconut shell while ensuring durability. Thenga Coco has tapped into the rising interest in sustainable dining and zero-waste lifestyles, offering consumers an alternative to plastic or ceramic. Their products not only celebrate the raw beauty of nature but also connect buyers to the age-old tradition of using coconut shells in Indian households, reimagined for modern living.

Recycle Green

Recycle Green takes the idea of the circular economy seriously. The brand focuses on harnessing agricultural waste, including coconut husks and shells, and converting it into innovative products that replace single-use plastics. Their strength lies in creating utility-based items like planters, home décor products, and packaging solutions. By collaborating with communities and waste collectors, Recycle Green ensures that what would have ended up in landfills finds a renewed purpose. 

Malai Biomaterials

Perhaps the most groundbreaking innovation in this space comes from Malai Biomaterials. The brand has developed a unique biocomposite material, often dubbed “coconut leather”, using bacterial cellulose grown on agricultural wastewater sourced from coconut processing units. This material is not only flexible and durable but also biodegradable, making it a strong alternative to animal leather and synthetic materials. Fashion and design industries have begun taking notice, with Malai offering a sustainable solution that aligns with global concerns about cruelty-free and eco-friendly practices.

Brown Living

While Thenga, Recycle Green, and Malai focus on crafting products, Brown Living takes on the role of a curator. It is an online marketplace dedicated to sustainable living, featuring a wide range of eco-friendly brands, including those that work with coconut waste. By offering products like coconut coir scrubs, biodegradable brushes, and coconut shell candles, Brown Living makes sustainable choices accessible to everyday consumers. Brown Living reflects the growing consumer demand in India for sustainability and helps bridge the gap between eco-friendly innovators and buyers looking for green alternatives.

Tengin 

Tengin is another inspiring example of how Indian brands are turning coconut waste into useful, eco-friendly products. Based in Karnataka, Tengin focuses on utilising coconut coir to make items like doormats, brushes, ropes, and even eco-friendly packaging solutions. Tengin also works closely with local artisans, helping preserve livelihoods while promoting products that are biodegradable, durable, and rooted in India’s coastal heritage.