A consortium of smallholder farmers in Mokokchung, Nagaland, is pioneering a sustainable shift away from traditional plastics by producing and adopting compostable bioplastic bags derived from Cassava starch. Despite government efforts to ban single-use plastics, the impact has been limited due to the lack of alternative lightweight materials.

To tackle this issue, the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) has supported an initiative to produce compostable bioplastic bags from Cassava starch (Manihot esculenta). This innovative approach provides a viable and sustainable alternative to conventional plastics, addressing both environmental concerns and local material needs.

Ecostarch, a Nagaland-based MSME, has established a manufacturing facility in Mokokchung to produce bioplastic bags from Cassava plants. To ensure a steady supply of raw materials, they are mobilizing farmers within a 30-40 km radius to take up Cassava farming. The farmers have already started planting Cassava, and the first harvest is expected in about a year.

With an initial production capacity of 3 tons per month, Ecostarch aims to meet the growing market demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Market surveys have revealed a higher demand, indicating significant growth potential for Ecostarch’s bioplastic products.

This model promotes the concept of 'cassava villages' to enhance the local economy and create job opportunities for youth. By forming farmer groups, the initiative aims to offer alternative livelihoods through cassava farming. Farmers receive training in cassava cultivation and are provided with essential farming inputs to support their efforts. Additionally, women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the targeted villages are being empowered and encouraged to engage in cassava cultivation as part of their Income Generation Activities (IGAs). This holistic approach not only fosters economic development but also supports sustainable practices and community empowerment.

Ecostarch plans to establish a manufacturing unit for biodegradable films and bags, targeting applications in food packaging and carry bags, using locally sourced cassava starch. This initiative is set to create employment opportunities for local youth by involving them in various stages of the production process, including raw material cleaning, sorting, and product packaging. By leveraging locally sourced cassava, Ecostarch not only supports regional agriculture but also stimulates local economic growth and fosters sustainable practices within the community.

By promoting a sustainable plastic alternative, Ecostarch is spearheading the creation of an environmentally friendly plastic economy in the region. This project is poised to transform each village into an entrepreneurial hub, fostering a greener circular economy. It will also provide much-needed economic opportunities for farmers in rural areas, enhancing their economic independence and contributing to community development.