Drinking water now in biodegradable bottles

Thiruvananthapuram: Water resources minister Roshy Augustine on Wednesday launched public-sector drinking water brand, Hilly Aqua, in biodegradable bottles. The initiative is spearheaded by Kerala Irrigation Infrastructure Development Corporation (KIIDC) under water resources department. The move is designed to combat plastic pollution, particularly in regions where green protocol is strictly enforced, such as major tourist destinations, said Augustine. While current regulations generally prohibit plastic water bottles smaller than 0.5 litres, these new containers of 300ml circumvent that issue by using eco-friendly materials. They are manufactured using poly lactic acid (PLA) preforms derived from natural starches like corn and sugarcane. These bottles are lightweight, transparent and designed to compost under specific industrial conditions, ensuring they don't contribute to long-term atmospheric or land pollution.
Currently, Hilly Aqua is produced at plants in Thodupuzha and Aruvikkara, with plans to operationalise new facilities in Kattappana and Aluva by next month, said Augustine. "A fifth plant is also being developed at Peruvannamuzhi. Govt has established a robust distribution network through ration shops, KSRTC and the railways. Notably, Kerala became the first state in India to export govt-produced bottled water to international markets," he said.The raw materials for this biodegradable venture are supplied by Eight Specialist Services, a Kochi-based startup, highlighting govt's commitment to integrating innovative technology with local entrepreneurship, he added.