In a crackdown on plastic and to promote environment-friendly solutions, the online food delivery app Zomato has launched the 'Plastic-Free Orders Packathon' Grand Challenge with Startup India. The challenge is open to all DPIIT-recognized startups who are working on innovative and eco-friendly solutions for food delivery packaging. Zomato in its release stated that Innovators and entrepreneurs working broadly within the following themes are encouraged to apply:
- Sustainable packaging solutions
- Eco-friendly packaging technologies
- Waste reduction and management
- Bioplastics and circular economy
- Product design (cutlery, boxes, lids, dip containers, etc.)
- Innovation in barrier coatings and sealants
- Packaging material alternatives
What is Zomato's Packathon?
Anjalli Ravi Kumar, Chief Sustainability Officer, Zomato was quoted saying, "Zomato is deeply committed to reducing the environmental impact of food deliveries. In September 2023, we began to recognize restaurants that have adopted sustainable packaging materials for food deliveries via a ‘Plastic-Free Orders’ banner. The program is live in 8 cities and 3.6 million orders have been recognized as plastic-free till 31 December, 2023."
"The program surfaced the fact that many national restaurant chains have adopted paper-based or bagasse-based packaging. Standalone, mid-tier and budget restaurants, especially those outside metro cities, are struggling with the availability of affordable and functional alternatives to plastic packaging for their deliveries. The problem is particularly acute for restaurants specializing in gravy-based cuisines with multiple condiments and accompaniments. We believe focused innovations hold the answer to this problem and the Packathon is a way to surface and recognise Indian innovators,” Anjalli added.
Notably, under the Packathon, Zomato also invited to people who have 'a solution in the prototype or product stage, ask them to apply ASAP: https://bit.ly/3HVmnC2
Procedure Post Submission
Step 1: Present your Startup story by submitting a PPT/Document showcasing:
• Introduce your startup and team members.
• Share photos and detailed descriptions of your solutions.
• Outline the materials used, performance on functionality metrics, cost comparisons, scalability, and design innovations.
• Mention any achievements so far, like sales numbers.
Step 2: Your submission will undergo evaluation by the jury panel.
• Be prepared for follow-up questions that delve deeper into your startup's strategies, solutions, and overall potential.
Step 3: DEMO day presentation and results announcement.
• 10 selected startups will be invited to Zomato's office for the presentation.
• Results will be announced on the same day.