INDIA: In a groundbreaking development, Rajiv Sharma, a college student from India, has designed an innovative air freshener named ALVE, challenging the conventional market dominated by plastic-laden and chemical-emitting products. Sharma’s invention not only focuses on providing a pleasant fragrance but also addresses the growing concerns about the health and environmental impacts of traditional air fresheners.
When COVID-19 forced many households to rely on air fresheners and sanitizers, the Sharma family, unaware of potential health risks, found themselves at the forefront of a health scare. A subsequent investigation revealed that common air fresheners emit harmful chemicals, leading to a serious health setback for Rajiv in 2022.
With a background in carpentry and a passion for creation, Rajiv took matters into his own hands. Armed with flower waste from a nearby temple, he crafted a natural fragrance for his homemade air freshener, sparking the birth of ALVE. Recognizing the potential of his creation, his college professors at the National Institute of Design, Andhra Pradesh, joined forces to refine and scale up the product.
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The USP of ALVE lies in its natural ingredients, sustainable design (compostable post-use), and integrated smart technology. Over eight months and 20 prototypes later, the ALVE air fresheners were born.
The air freshener, available in three variants for homes, offices, and cars, offers a choice of 15 fragrances. Equipped with smart sensors, ALVE automatically activates and deactivates based on the detection of an individual’s presence. Compatible with Google Assistant, the biodegradable body can be composted after use, with organic refills crafted from temple flower waste.
Rajiv’s commitment to sustainability extends to his partnership with more than 30 temples in Jamshedpur, collecting a minimum of 3 kg of floral waste from each temple daily. To date, he has recycled an impressive 1,500 kg of temple waste.
The product’s safety for animals is another noteworthy aspect. Drawing from his experience with the Jharkhand Animal Welfare Society, Rajiv ensures that ALVE contains no plastic, aligning with his mission to reduce the impact of human behavior on animals.
Operating his startup, ALVE Green Solutions, from his home, Rajiv has already sold over 850 air fresheners in the past five months, earning over Rs 2 lakh. With an eye on expansion, ALVE Green Solutions has collaborated with the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, fostering innovation with the involvement of five college students.
As ALVE gains traction, Rajiv Sharma envisions a world where clean air is not a luxury but a sustainable standard. The product is currently available offline, at events, and through the ALVE website, with plans for wider distribution in the near future.
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