'3x rise in rural incomes': Nithin Kamath’s shout-out to Kolkata startup that is replacing plastic with bamboo alternatives

Zerodha founder and CEO Nithin Kamath’s recent tweet has thrust Amwoodo, a Kolkata-based green startup backed by him that is redefining rural livelihoods and addressing environmental challenges, into the limelight. Founded by Agni Mitra, Amwoodo specialises in creating bamboo-based alternatives to plastic, combining profitability with sustainability.

Kamath recently took to X to celebrate the dual impact of the startup. “Amwoodo has achieved a threefold increase in rural incomes, with over 1,200 farmers and artisans now earning approximately ₹30,000, up from ₹10,000. Additionally, 1.1 million bamboo trees have been planted, 384 metric tonnes of plastic waste diverted from landfills, and 312,232 metric tonnes of CO₂ emissions offset,” Kamath highlighted in a post on X.

Headquartered in Kolkata's Salt Lake, Amwoodo produces bamboo-based personal care products and guest amenities. Its clientele includes renowned brands like Himalaya Wellness Company, Bombay Shaving Company, and ITC Hotels. Beyond its products, the startup has played a significant role in ecological restoration, rejuvenating 674 acres of barren land across northeast India and West Bengal in collaboration with 600 farmers and artisans.

Kamath emphasized the versatility and potential of bamboo in solving pressing environmental issues. “Bamboo rejuvenates barren lands, repairs damaged soil, and reduces erosion. It’s also a low-maintenance crop, requiring minimal water and chemicals, making it an ideal income source for landowners. India, being one of the largest importers of bamboo, must harness its domestic potential to reduce dependency on imports from China and Vietnam.”

Rainmatter Climate, Kamath’s philanthropic initiative, spearheaded Amwoodo’s seed funding in 2024. This financial backing enabled the startup to expand operations while remaining committed to its mission of ecological and economic value creation. Kamath lauded the partnership, stating, “We need more such businesses in India.”

Expressing optimism about Amwoodo’s journey, Kamath said, “The last few years of partnering with Amwoodo have been special. The business is not just profitable but also a model of sustainable entrepreneurship. I hope these numbers continue to grow as the business scales sustainably, navigating pressures and priorities.”