The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), Government of India has established the Centre of
Excellence in Biodegradable Packaging Materials at IIT Madras.
Led by Prof. Ethayaraja Mani from IITM's Department of Chemical Engineering, the Centre aims to
develop cost-effective, scalable, and zero-waste alternatives to conventional plastics through biodegradable
and compostable materials. With state-of-the-art facilities for polymer processing, manufacturing, and
testing, the Centre facilitates end-to-end innovation in all aspects of packaging development.
Material design & formulation
Prototype development
Pilot-scale units
Testing & evaluation
Scalability assessment
Process & cost optimisation
Quality control
Regulatory compliance
Sustainable solutions
Business incubation
Patents & technology transfers
“Through this Centre, we aim to make India a global hub for sustainable packaging technologies by
integrating scientific innovation with industry needs,” said Prof. Ethayaraja Mani.
Focusing on bio-based polymers, industry collaboration, and start-up incubation, the Centre will help drive
India's transition toward a circular and green economy.
We collaborate with academic experts, industry personnel, policymakers and community representatives in our end-to-end research, development, testing, scaling and commercialisation activities.
Our goals and activities contribute towards the stated aims of several national and international policies and movements, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), EU Single-Use Plastics Directive, and Green India Mission.