Coconuts are an integral part of the lives of the people in South India, especially Kerala. It is seen that nothing from a coconut can ever go to waste. From its leaves to its husk to its trunk, everything can be used to create something new. Even coconut shells are used as a replacement for firewood. But this woman from Kerala used these discarded coconut shells in such a way that she now earns 7 lakhs a month using them.
This Woman Turns Discarded Coconut Shells To Everyday Use Objects
A resident of Thrissur in Kerala, Maria Kuriakose, thought of putting the durability and toughness of coconut shells to use. She founded Thenga Coco, where these discarded shells are converted into eco-friendly everyday-use jewellery and objects.
Maria wanted to create something sustainable, as she has always been passionate about eco-friendly products. She wanted to start her own business, and being from Kerala, she thought coconut shells were the perfect raw material. Since coconuts are plentiful in Kerala, this is why she chose it, Maria told India Times.
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Her eureka moment came when she visited a coconut processing unit in her hometown and saw that the shells were discarded and burned. She made some value-added products using coconut shells and husk, sent them to Mumbai, and got a good response.
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From Starting Alone To An Army Of 12
Maria quit her corporate job as a leadership consultant in Mumbai and began pursuing her passion. She found out during her research that value-added products from coconut shells included handicrafts, but they were time-consuming and did not have a large market. Hence, she focused on products of daily use like cutlery, dishes, saucers, cups, and others.
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Starting alone, as the order grew, Maria roped in women artists for this work. Today, they are a team of 12 who make products. Most of her customers are corporates and hence order in bulk. She also sells these items to customers directly via Thenga Coco’s website and social media.
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Maria’s eco-startup, Thenga Coco, sells 4,000–5,000 pieces of coconut shell products per month, earning her around ₹7-8 lakhs per month. Maria finds the response very encouraging and hopes that people will consider shifting to sustainability in huge numbers.
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What do you think about this inspiring story?
Cover Image Courtesy: @thengacoco/Instagram