In a breakthrough that’s turning heads both in fashion and sustainability circles, social entrepreneur Anish Malpani has developed the world’s first sunglasses made entirely from recycled multi-layered plastic (MLP)—the shiny, flexible material used in potato chip, chocolate, and milk packets that was once considered “non-recyclable.”
This pioneering innovation is the result of years of research and experimentation by Ashaya, a Pune-based deep-tech social impact startup founded by Anish Malpani. Their consumer-facing brand, aptly named “Without”, signifies a world without waste and with purpose.
From Trash to Trend
Each pair of these stylish, polarized sunglasses is crafted from approximately five discarded chip packets, processed using a chemo-mechanical extraction technique developed in-house. The result? A lightweight, UV-protected accessory that not only looks good but does good.
“We wanted to prove that it’s possible to create high-quality products from the hardest-to-recycle materials,” said Malpani. “And that sustainability doesn’t have to come at the cost of design or performance.”
Purpose Woven into Every Pair
Unlike many “green” products, Without sunglasses come with a story—each pair includes a QR code that traces the journey of the materials from waste to wearable. What’s more, the initiative directly supports the welfare of waste-pickers, offering them better wages, safety conditions, and education support for their children.
From Shark Tank to Global Interest
After debuting in 2023 and quickly selling out its first few batches, the project gained national visibility when Malpani appeared on Shark Tank India Season 3 in early 2024. His pitch impressed investors, winning a deal of ₹75 lakh for 3% equity from Ronnie Screwvala and Lenskart’s Peyush Bansal.
Now, Ashaya is preparing to scale up production with new colors and designs, while also exploring other recycled products—including lamps, furniture, and industrial materials.
A Vision Beyond Fashion
This isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a recycling revolution. Malpani’s innovation tackles one of the most persistent environmental problems: the disposal of MLPs, which often end up in landfills or oceans due to their non-biodegradable and complex composition.
By turning this waste into a valuable product, Ashaya is rewriting the narrative around plastic and proving that with the right technology and intent, even the most challenging waste can find a second life.
