By A Correspondent

In a world increasingly threatened by climate change and environmental degradation, there are a few individuals who not only dare to dream of a greener planet but also work relentlessly to turn that vision into reality.

Krunal Jagtap, the CEO and Founder of HAB Biomass Pvt. Ltd. (HBPL), is one such changemaker. From pioneering sustainable waste management practices to developing carbon-negative technologies, Jagtap is leading the charge in redefining how we think about sustainability.

“I have always been fascinated by the idea of converting challenges into opportunities,” says Jagtap, whose academic journey began with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, followed by a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus on operations management. “For me, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a responsibility.”

Jagtap and his team have ventured into a realm of innovation that transcends boundaries. They have achieved a pivotal milestone by pioneering biomass-reinforced plastic—a biodegradable alternative to conventional plastics. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the plastic industry, with the capacity to reduce plastic usage by an astonishing 40%.

Under his leadership, HBPL has grown into a nationally recognized startup, acclaimed for its innovative work in activated carbon, biochar, biomass briquettes, plastic recycling, and alternative fuels. The company’s commitment to sustainability is rooted deeply in Jagtap’s own values and lifelong admiration for nature.

Currently pursuing a PhD, Jagtap embodies the spirit of continuous learning. His deep dive into research and development has helped HBPL excel in the production of biochar, torrefied biomass, and activated carbon—solutions that are not just innovative but also environmentally restorative.

“My mission is simple,” he explains. “To harness the power of science and engineering to tackle real-world environmental problems. Be it reducing carbon emissions, managing waste more effectively, or promoting renewable energy sources—every solution we work on must leave the planet better than we found it.”

What sets Jagtap apart is not only his technical prowess but also his collaborative mindset. “Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation,” he says. “We need to build bridges with like-minded individuals and organizations. Only through collective action can we create meaningful change.”

From the development of eco-friendly fuels to building circular economy models, Jagtap’s efforts are all geared toward climate change mitigation. His work aligns with global sustainability goals, but its impact is felt most in local communities—where cleaner technologies, better waste solutions, and carbon-negative products are creating new possibilities.

As he looks to the future, Jagtap remains both grounded and ambitious. “We’re not just building a business; we’re building a legacy of sustainability. It’s about honoring nature, reducing our carbon footprint, and creating a society that thrives in harmony with the environment.”

Indeed, Krunal Jagtap’s journey—from a curious student of engineering to a visionary entrepreneur—is a compelling story of how ideas, when pursued with passion and purpose, can truly create impact.

Today, HAB Biomass Pvt. Ltd. collaborates with esteemed institutions such as PDKV Punjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyalaya RIF Akola, ICAR Pusa Krishi Delhi, COEP Bhau Institute of Innovation Pune, Venture Centre Pune, TiE Pune, and Garje Marathi Global, among others.

Awards and Accolades Krunal Jagtap and his team have garnered:

• The AYEL National Award by Union Minister Shri Virendra Kumar, Government of India, with a financial assistance of ₹30 lakh.
• Winner of the Atal New India Challenge 2022, organized by NITI Aayog, Government of India, receiving ₹1 crore in financial support.
• Triumph at Startup Mantra 2022 (SUM 2022), a flagship program by Vyom Group, TP.RS, MEITY, and Integrated Smart Centres.
• Top rank at Birac BIG 21, with a grant of ₹50 lakh, emerging as the PAN India topper.
• Support from the Startup India Seed Fund, with assistance of ₹20 lakh.
• Awarded the prestigious “Young Entrepreneur Award 2024” by the Deccan Chamber of Commerce Industries & Agriculture (DCCIA), presented by Honourable Minister Shri Chandrakant Dada Patil and SPPU Vice Chancellor Hon. Suresh Gosavi Ji.

Looking ahead, Jagtap envisions scaling HBPL’s innovations beyond India, aiming to address global waste and energy challenges. His dream is to see Indian-developed technologies empower underdeveloped nations to leapfrog into a sustainable future—where prosperity doesn’t come at the planet’s expense, but grows in sync with it.