When Sonal and Vaibhav, two bright graduates from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), embarked on a college trek to the majestic mountains of Himachal Pradesh, they expected serenity, adventure, and natural beauty. What they didn’t expect was the stark and disturbing reality of plastic pollution littering the very trails they sought to explore. That moment changed their perspective—and eventually, their lives.

What began as a jarring sight on a scenic trail gave birth to econscious®, a Delhi-based startup with a singular mission: to transform plastic waste into sustainable, stylish, and durable home decor. Since its inception, econscious® has recycled over 3.5 lakh kilograms of plastic waste and clocked over Rs 1 crore in revenue, proving that impact and innovation can go hand-in-hand.

Fresh out of engineering college, Sonal and Vaibhav didn’t dive into traditional tech jobs like many of their peers. Instead, they took the entrepreneurial leap, blending eco-consciousness with design thinking. They started small, collecting plastic waste from urban waste streams, segregating it meticulously, and experimenting with ways to convert it into usable raw materials.

After months of trials, they developed a unique method to upcycle plastic into high-quality decor items—including wall panels, furniture, planters, and home accessories. Unlike conventional plastic products, econscious® offerings are not only aesthetically modern but also highly durable, weather-resistant, and made without toxic chemicals.

What sets econscious® apart is their closed-loop approach to waste management. They partner with local municipalities, housing societies, and recycling networks to source clean, post-consumer plastic. This plastic is then processed at their in-house facility, shaped into vibrant sheets, and hand-finished into décor products by skilled artisans and designers.

Each product tells a story—of waste transformed, of environmental consciousness, and of modern minimalism. From customized interiors to corporate gifting, econscious® has found a niche among eco-conscious consumers, architects, and interior designers looking for sustainable alternatives to traditional décor.

Their impact is not limited to the environment. By building a business rooted in sustainability, Sonal and Vaibhav have created livelihoods for waste workers, promoted ethical sourcing, and raised awareness about circular design. Their work has received attention from eco forums, media platforms, and design showcases across India.

With an eye on the future, the duo plans to expand their product line, develop modular furniture, and even explore exports. Their mission is clear: to make eco-friendly living aspirational, accessible, and achievable.

From the Himalayas to households, econscious® is not just a startup—it’s a revolution in how we perceive plastic. One that redefines waste as value, and turns discarded material into timeless design.