For decades, plastic has been both a marvel and a menace. Introduced to India in the mid-20th century, plastic quickly became a popular alternative to traditional materials due to its durability, flexibility, and low cost.

Over time, it found its way into every aspect of life — from packaging and furniture to infrastructure and fashion. But what once symbolised innovation has now become one of the planet’s biggest environmental threats. India alone generates over 3.4 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, much of it ending up in landfills or choking rivers.

Yet, not everyone sees plastic as the villain. “Plastic, for me, is not a bad material; it is the poor disposal and not repurposing it that creates a huge issue for the planet and the natural resources,” says Yuvraj Singh Ahuja, architect-turned-entrepreneur and the founder of ‘Sereno’.

Based out of Amritsar with a design office in Delhi, Yuvraj is making the best use of plastic trimmings and everyday plastics by converting them into 100% recyclable planters and furniture.

From architect to entrepreneur

Yuvraj’s journey began in the family business. His father had established Frontier Polymers Pvt. Ltd. in 1990, manufacturing rotomoulded products like water tanks and household plastic items. As the only son, Yuvraj joined the business soon after graduating in architecture in 1999.

“In the business, I was trying to find a niche that appealed to me,” the 50-year-old says. That quest led him to introduce a road safety line — cones and barriers that are now a staple on highways.

However, Yuvraj’s design instincts nudged him in another direction. The turning point came when his mother brought home a few cheap plastic pots. “I thought, how can we create a better version in terms of design........

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