28. May 2025
India's first PLA biopolymer brand launched
The Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis formally launched India's first Poly Lactic acid (PLA) brand “Balrampur Bioyug”, to be produced by Balrampur Chini Mills Limited (BCML – Kolkata, India), marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards sustainable innovation.
Held at Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, the launch event marked a pivotal moment, bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders from the entire value chain to celebrate a groundbreaking advancement in biopolymer manufacturing and sustainable industrial practices.
Strategically located adjacent to BCML’s existing sugar factory in Kumbhi, Uttar Pradesh, the upcoming PLA plant integrates operational synergies to enhance resource efficiency and optimize supply chain management. With a gross investment of approx. USD 343.37 million, the plant leverages cutting-edge technology from global technology providers. This plant is going to be India’s first industrial scale biopolymer plant C also set a new global benchmark. It will be powered by 100 % renewable energy for its entire production process, and also the first plant location where sugarcane is transformed into PLA in a single, integrated site,
Alongside the unveiling of Balrampur Bioyug, the event also launched Bioyug on Wheels, a first-of-its-kind mobile experience designed to demonstrate the transformative potential of PLA (polylactic acid) – a biobased alternative to fossil-based plastics. This unique mobile unit offers an immersive, guided journey into the future of sustainable living. The initiative brings the versatility of PLA directly to communities and stakeholders through live demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and real-world applications across packaging and consumer products. The experience aims to raise awareness, foster understanding, and inspire the adoption of green materials in everyday life. Supported by Bioyug’s Business Development team, the initiative also provides an opportunity for businesses and individuals to engage directly, ask questions, and explore how Bioyug’s innovations can contribute to their sustainability goals.
Stefan Barot, President – Chemicals Division, Balrampur Chini Mills Limited said, “At the launch of Balrampur BioYug, we are proud to introduce BCML’s wholly owned unit, which will establish India’s first industrial-scale PLA biopolymer plant – an important step in advancing our long-term sustainability agenda while setting a new global benchmark. With an annual capacity of 80,000 tonnes, Balrampur Bioyug will produce 100 % biobased, industrially compostable PLA – offering a credible and scalable solution to the global plastic crisis. As a versatile polymer derived from renewable resources, PLA (Polylactic Acid) has the mechanical strength and durability needed for a wide range of uses while being far more sustainable. It is ideally suited to replace banned single-use plastic items such as straws, disposable cutlery, trays, bottles, and curd cups—without compromising on performance or safety. This launch not only marks a decisive leap in sustainable manufacturing but also signals a significant shift in how India approaches material innovation for a circular, cleaner, greener future.” AT
https://chini.com/