Archive · 25 May 2025
Professor's Eco-Innovation: From Classroom to Sustainable Straws
Dr. Saji Varghese, an English professor, created an eco-friendly straw made from coconut leaves.
He was inspired to make a difference and help solve the problem of plastic waste.
His 'Sunbird Straws' are now used to help the environment and create jobs for over 200 women.
He wakes up early to work in his 'lab', his kitchen, and guides students to turn their ideas into real solutions.
He believes anyone can create sustainable solutions by observing problems and being persistent.
Dr. Varghese, an English professor, developed biodegradable straws from coconut leaves.
The innovation was inspired by a visitor noticing single-use plastic straws.
Sunbird Straws now support the livelihoods of over 200 women in India's coastal states.
Dr. Varghese leads the Centre for Design and Innovation for Social Entrepreneurship.
He emphasizes the importance of addressing problems with creative, sustainable solutions.
- Who
- Dr. Saji Varghese, an English professor, and the women who create the straws.
- What
- Creation of biodegradable straws and a center for social entrepreneurship.
- When
- Over two decades since beginning teaching, but the eco-innovation happened more recently.
- Where
- Bengaluru, India, and various coastal states.
- Why
- To address plastic pollution and support rural livelihoods.
Challenges in Sustainable Product Pricing
Maintaining Livelihoods
Pricing vs. Impact
Challenges in Sustainable Product Pricing
Finding a balance between improving efficiency and protecting the livelihoods supported by the work is crucial.
Maintaining Livelihoods
Sustainable products are often more expensive due to labor-intensive production methods.
- Profession
- English Professor at Christ University, Bengaluru
- Teaching Experience
- Over 20 years
- Eco-Innovation
- Sunbird Straws
- Straw Material
- Coconut leaves
- Women Supported
- 200+