Vishwajith Kumar

Indian environmental engineer leading the global shift to bamboo-based sustainable materials

Vishwajith Kumar is an Indian innovator whose pioneering work with bamboo composites has transformed sustainable packaging and construction industries. Founder of GreenRoots Innovations, he developed a patented process to create water-resistant bamboo fiber boards that outperform traditional plastics and wood products.

Kumar's materials are now used in over 10,000+ cafes across India for biodegradable cutlery, reducing plastic waste by an estimated 2.3 million kg annually. His TED Talk on bamboo's potential won global acclaim, leading to partnerships with Unilever and IKEA.

In 2024, his team launched the world's first bamboo-based 3D printing filament, enabling sustainable construction projects. He also created a mobile app (BambuTrack) that connects farmers directly with manufacturers, ensuring fair prices and traceable supply chains. His work was honored with the UNEP Young Champions of the Earth Award in 2023.