Naaz Ozair turned his loss into a mission for sustainability. After losing his nephew to cancer, he now reduces plastic waste by creating eco-friendly daily-use products from corn husk.

Seven years ago, Naaz Ozair from Muzaffarpur faced a heartbreaking loss when his young nephew passed away from cancer. This tragedy led him to discover the harmful effects of plastic particles on health. Determined to make a change, he committed himself to reducing plastic use in everyday life.

As an MTech teacher, Naaz Ozair was accustomed to solving complex problems—but this challenge was deeply personal. After numerous failed attempts to find an alternative, he discovered corn husk. Unlike fragile plastic pouches that tear easily, corn husk is stronger and more durable, making it a practical, eco-friendly solution for daily use.

Naaz experiment soon evolved into a thriving business. He now creates eco-friendly products like chocolate wrappers, cups, plates, bags, and banners—all made from corn husk. With over 10 products, his venture sells more than 1,000 items daily.

Naaz Journey of Innovation and Empowerment

Naaz journey was not easy. Determined to bring his vision to life, he left his teaching job to focus entirely on research and product development. Today, his work is recognized by IIT Patna and backed by the Bihar Startup Program.

Naaz innovation goes beyond reducing plastic pollution—it is about empowering communities. In Bihar, where corn is harvested three times a year, husks were once considered waste. By repurposing them, he has created an economic lifeline for local farmers, turning discarded material into extra income.

"Were not just making eco-friendly products," Naaz explained. "Were creating a sustainable cycle where waste turns into wealth."

Innovation, Livelihoods, and a Plastic-Free Future

His venture has provided stable employment for local artisans and workers, equipping them with skills in sustainable manufacturing. Naaz initiative proves that sustainability is not just about the environment—it is about people, livelihoods, and reimagining how we use resources.

Plastic is deeply woven into our daily lives—from chocolate wrappers to disposable chai cups, convenience has long overshadowed sustainability. But what if there was a better choice? As governments worldwide tighten restrictions on plastic use, businesses like Naaz Ozairs could become the standard rather than the exception.

The future of sustainable packaging is vast, and Naaz is already pushing boundaries. Beyond chocolates and tea cups, he is exploring biodegradable food packaging, durable home décor, and even eco-friendly fabric coatings. His vision is simple yet powerful: replace plastic with materials that nurture the planet instead of harming it.

Paving the Way for a Plastic-Free Future

It is easy to think that one person choosing an eco-friendly chocolate wrapper would not make a difference. But every small step adds up. If ventures like Naaz Ozair thrive, we could see a future where plastic wrappers, disposable cups, and harmful packaging are relics of the past.

"It is time we stop thinking of waste as something to discard," he says. It is a resource in the wrong place—we just need to put it to the right use.

Today, Naaz is focused on expanding his plant and innovating sustainable products that create a meaningful impact.

Edited by Gayathri