Balrampur Chini Mills Limited (BCML) is entering the poly lactic acid manufacturing sector with a fully integrated facility aimed at establishing India’s first industrial-scale bio-polymer plant. The project marks a significant step towards expanding domestic bioplastics production and promoting sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. The venture aligns with India’s sustainability goals and efforts to combat climate change.
₹3,080 Crore Investment in PLA Manufacturing
BCML plans to invest approximately ₹3,080 crore in phases over around 2.5 years to develop the new PLA manufacturing facility. With a planned production capacity of 75,000 tonnes per annum (TPA), the plant will operate at a globally competitive scale. To accelerate construction, the company will develop the facility on a greenfield site adjacent to one of its existing sugar plants. This location will allow BCML to leverage a significant portion of the existing local infrastructure.
Advancing Sustainable Bioplastics Production
The project will use bio-based raw materials to manufacture polylactic acid (PLA) and related bioplastics. By converting renewable resources into bio-based polymers, BCML aims to support a shift away from conventional, fossil-fuel-based plastics towards more sustainable materials. The initiative promotes circular and regenerative manufacturing principles, helping reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.
PLA Offers an Alternative to Single-Use Plastics
PLA and its compounds can serve as alternatives to several applications of conventional single-use plastics (SUPs). Their potential use in suitable packaging and other applications could help expand the adoption of bio-based materials across Indian industries. As a result, the proposed facility could strengthen India’s domestic bioplastics manufacturing capabilities while supporting the transition towards more sustainable material consumption.
Supporting India’s Net-Zero Ambitions
BCML’s proposed investment supports India’s broader efforts to reduce emissions and achieve its target of net-zero emissions by 2070. As per company press release, by developing industrial-scale PLA production, the company aims to contribute to the growth of the bio-based materials sector and accelerate the adoption of alternatives to conventional plastics.
