Conservationist Dia Mirza Backs Startup Working With ‘Unrecyclable’ Waste

MUMBAI — Bollywood actress and environmental advocate Dia Mirza has invested in a pioneering startup transforming unrecyclable plastic waste into high-quality circular materials, highlighting a model of inclusive innovation.

The startup, Without®, recently launched its first-of-its-kind  demonstration plant in Pune, capable of processing up to five tons of plastic waste per month that would otherwise be considered unrecyclable. The plant also emphasizes social impact by offering waste workers 2–3 times higher salaries, health insurance, paid leave, and respect, integrating sustainability with worker welfare.

Dia Mirza, said the initiative reflects a broader vision of systemic, inclusive innovation. “This isn’t just innovation — it’s inclusive innovation. Cutting-edge recycling technology that gives waste workers dignity and better livelihoods,” she said in a statement shared on social media.

The launch follows a $1.9 million seed funding round, backed by patient impact investors. Dia described the project as a step toward positioning India as a global leader in circular solutions.

Mirza, known for her environmental advocacy, emphasized that real circularity should include both materials and people. “Here’s to scaling this vision across India and beyond. When innovation meets inclusion, hope becomes action,” she added.(IANS)