‘Say NO to Plastic’ Heart Wrenching Story of Innovator Naz Ozair: Cups, Plates, and Bags Made from Corn Husks
'Say NO to Plastic' Heart Wrenching Story of Innovator Naz Ozair: Cups, Plates, and Bags Made from Corn Husks
Innovative eco-friendly products inspire sustainable change.
Naz Ozair, a 30-year-old innovator from Muzaffarpur, has developed 10 eco-friendly products like cups, plates, banners, and bags using corn husks as a sustainable alternative to plastic. Inspired by the untimely death of his nephew due to cancer, Naz left his job to pursue this innovation.
Nearly five years ago, Naz’s nephew passed away despite being perfectly healthy and having no habits like smoking. When Naz consulted doctors, they mentioned that even microplastics could trigger cancer. This realization pushed Naz to intensify his search for natural alternatives to plastic.
Although Naz, an M.Tech graduate, was teaching at an engineering college, he had been experimenting with products made from bamboo and papaya trees. However, his efforts did not yield success until he observed corn husks. Noticing that the husks remained intact for a long time even after the corn was harvested, Naz saw an opportunity. He created his first product using corn husks, which fueled his belief that many other items could be produced.
Gradually, Naz expanded his range to include cups, plates, banners, and bags. Today, he has successfully developed 10 products from corn husks and has showcased them to government officials. Orders have also started trickling in from nearby communities. To protect his innovation, Naz has secured a patent for his products.
Reflecting on his journey, Naz says, “I felt as though nature was screaming at us to use its resources wisely.”
Naz’s father, a private school teacher, supports his work. Naz himself left his college job and has been teaching at a school for the past five years, dedicating more time to his research. With corn grown three times a year, Naz believes this innovation can also help farmers increase their income by providing them with a new revenue stream.
Naz continues to work on expanding his eco-friendly product range, leveraging the abundant and easily accessible raw materials to drive sustainability.
