Sustainability in sourcing is no longer a buzzwordโitโs a necessity. Several studies have shown consumers increasingly demanding ethical practices and businesses are pivoting to prioritise environmental conservation, fair labour, and eco-friendly processes in their supply chains.ย This blog will explore the growing importance of sustainability in sourcing, you’ll also discover why India is the Go-to destination for eco-friendly product sourcing, certifications to look out for when finding/choosing suppliers and also introduce you to some of the top sustainable and eco-friendly products that can be sourced from India.ย
Table of Contents
Introduction
A World Economic Forum report reveals that over 80% of consumers worldwide now prefer brands with eco-friendly practices. The 2024 Global Sustainability Study echoes this shift, showing that 64% of consumers consider sustainability in their purchasing decisions, with 54% willing to pay a premium for sustainable products. This isnโt just a trendโitโs a huge shift in consumer behaviour, driven by a collective push for environmental responsibility.
Generational preferences are further fuelling this movement. According to McKinsey, 66% of consumers and 75% of millennials + Gen Z prioritize sustainability when making purchases. ย The demand for businesses to act ethically has never been clearer.
For brands, this represents an incredible opportunityโnot just to meet expectations but to stand out in a crowded market. Aligning with sustainable practices isnโt merely about staying relevant; itโs about building long-term trust and loyalty.
If youโre thinking about jumping on the green wagon, sourcing and selling eco-friendly products is a fantastic way to contribute to the planet while meeting consumer demand.
Dive into this blog to explore how Indiaโs sustainable products can elevate your business while contributing to a more ethical and environmentally conscious future. Letโs uncover why sourcing eco-friendly products from India is not just good for the planet, but also for your brand.
What are Sustainable/ Eco-friendly products?
Sustainable products are those designed to minimise their environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. They are often made using renewable or recycled or sustainable materials, free from harmful chemicals, often feature natural, organic, plant-based ingredients, produced through processes that reduce waste and energy consumption, offer zero waste alternatives, crafted under conditions that ensure fair treatment of workers, ethical manufacturing practices, support charities and causes and hold certifications ensuring their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
Benefits of Sourcing Sustainable Eco-friendly products from India
India, a country celebrated for its rich heritage of craftsmanship, is emerging as a global hub for eco-friendly products. Its artisans are blending age-old traditions with modern sustainable practices, making it a hub for eco-friendly, sustainable and ethically sourced products. In fact, India is home to some of the most innovative and sustainable products available globally, from textiles to handcrafted items that align perfectly with the principles of eco-friendly sourcing.
By Sourcing from India, you’re helping rural artisans and promoting fair trade practices.
Certifications to look out for when finding suppliers
Certifications serve as a crucial benchmark of authenticity and checking certifications that suppliers hold ensures that the products you source genuinely adhere to environmentally and socially responsible standards.
There are many different certifications required for different product categories and here are some examples of Sustainability Certifications-
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certifies organic fibres and environmentally and socially responsible textile production.
OEKO-TEXย is a globally recognised certification that ensures textiles meet high safety and environmental standards. Products bearing the Oeko-Tex label, such as Standard 100 or Made in Green, have been rigorously tested for harmful substances, ensuring they are safe for human use and environmentally friendly.
The certification covers every stage of production, from raw material processing to finished goods, verifying that no toxic chemicals, dyes, or heavy metals are used. It also considers sustainable practices, promoting reduced water and energy consumption and ethical working conditions.
BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) is a global non-profit organization and promotes practices that reduce the environmental impact of cotton farming, such as efficient water use, soil health improvement, and minimizing harmful pesticide use.
The Organic Content Standard 100 (OCS 100) is a globally recognised certification that verifies the presence and quantity of organic material in a product. It tracks the flow of organic raw materials, such as cotton, through the entire supply chain, ensuring transparency and credibility for end consumers.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)– Sourcing FSC-certified products assures consumers that their choices support sustainable forestry, helping to combat deforestation, protect wildlife, and promote ethical practices across the supply chain.
โขFSC 100%: Products made entirely from FSC-certified forests.
โขFSC Recycled: Products made from recycled materials.
โขFSC Mix: Products containing a combination of FSC-certified, recycled, or controlled wood.
The VRIKSH certification is an initiative by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) in India, designed to verify the legal origin and traceability of wood and wooden products. This standard ensures that timber used in manufacturing is sourced legally, promoting sustainable forestry practices and compliance with international regulations.
The USDA Organic label guarantees consumers that products adhere to rigorous organic standards, supporting sustainability, environmental health, and ethical farming practices. Products covered under this are Fresh and processed foods, Cotton and other organic textiles, Organic personal care products.
ECOCERT is a globally recognised certification body established in France in 1991. It specialises in the certification of organic, ecological, and environmentally friendly products. Known for its rigorous standards, ECOCERT certifies a wide range of products, from cosmetics and textiles to food and household goods, ensuring their adherence to sustainable practices.
India Organic is a certification mark established by the Government of India to authenticate organically farmed products. Managed under the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), this certification ensures adherence to national organic standards.
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are a set of globally recognised guidelines that ensure the quality, safety, and consistency of products in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and health supplements.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a regulatory agency under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It is responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of a wide range of products, including food, drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, and more.
WHO-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) is a certification issued by the World Health Organization, ensuring that pharmaceutical products are consistently produced and controlled according to internationally accepted quality standards.
The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an internationally recognised certification that verifies recycled content in products and ensures responsible social, environmental, and chemical practices throughout the supply chain. Developed by Textile Exchange, GRS is widely used in industries such as textiles, apparel, and packaging.
Other Certifications to look out for are as below. These are not strictly sustainability certifications but play a vital role in ensuring ethicalย and socially responsible practices.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) are globally recognised standards that ensure quality, safety, efficiency, and sustainability across industries.ย ISO 14001 Focuses on reducing environmental impact through effective management systems.
ISO 20400 Provides guidance on integrating sustainability into procurement practices, ensuring ethical and environmentally friendly sourcing.
ISO 9001:2015 is an internationally recognised standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS) and provides a framework for organisations to deliver consistent, high-quality products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements.
The Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI) is a globally recognised framework that ensures ethical labour practices, fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for workersโ rights in manufacturing and sourcing.
The SA8000 Standard is one of the worldโs leading social certification programs, designed to ensure ethical and socially responsible practices in workplaces across industries like No Child or forced labour, fair wages, safe and healthy work environment, compliant working hours and freedom of association.
Sedex ( Supplier Ethical Data Exchange)- ensures that suppliers meet global ethical standards, supporting sustainability by addressing the โsocialโ aspect of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
Fair Trade Certification is a globally recognised standard aimed at promoting ethical trade practices and improving the livelihoods of workers and producers in developing countries. It focuses on creating equitable trading partnerships that ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmentally sustainable practices.
21 Eco-friendly, Sustainable Products to Source from India
Let’s take a look at some of the top Eco-friendly, sustainable products that are great to source from India.
- Organic Cotton Textiles, Clothing, Home Decor and Accessories
- Linen and Hemp Textiles, Clothing and Home Furnishings
- Areca Leaf Products
- Jute Home decor Products
- Cork Products
- Recycled Cotton Products
- Recycled PET Products
- Sabai Grass Home decor
- Mango Wood Home products
- Banana Fiber Home Decor
- Organic, Herbal, Ayurvedic Health and Wellness Products
- Stainless Steel Kitchen Products
- Eco Felt Home decor and Accessories
- Terracotta and Clay Products
- Coir (coconut Fiber) and Coconut Shell Products
- Eco-friendly Children’s Toys
- Eco-friendly Packaging
- Eco-friendly Yoga Products
- Eco-friendly Paper products, stationary
- Eco-friendly Pet Products
- Reusable Bee Wax Wraps
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Organic Cotton Textiles, Clothing, Home Decor and Accessories
Organic cotton products are a sustainable alternative to conventional cotton, grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilisers, or genetically modified seeds and are great eco-friendly sustainable products to source from India. This eco-friendly farming method preserves soil health, reduces water usage and emits less greenhouse gases, according to the Textile Exchange. India is the largest producer of organic cotton globally, accounting for an estimated 38.2% of global organic cotton production in 2020/21, while 2.1% of the countryโs overall cotton production was estimated to be organic with key states including Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Telangana. The manufacturing process focuses on using non-toxic dyes and sustainable practices to minimise environmental impact.
Organic cotton is transformed into various products, including apparel, home and kitchen textiles like bed linens, curtains, towels, reusable bags, and baby clothing, accessories, soft toys which are soft, durable, and safe for sensitive skin.
Universal Knitwears based in Haryana, India is a Certified supplier of Knitted Organic Cotton Home Furnishings, Garments and Baby Products.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Linen and Hemp Textiles, Clothing and Home Furnishings
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Areca Leaf Products
Another eco-friendly sustainable product to source from India are Areca palm leaf products. They are biodegradable, eco-friendly alternatives to plastic, crafted from naturally fallen areca palm leaves. These leaves, abundant in Indian states like Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, are collected, cleaned, and heat-pressed into various shapes like plates, bowls, trays, and cutlery without the use of chemicals or additives. This process ensures they are safe for food use while maintaining durability for hot, cold, or greasy items.
Highly versatile and stylish, these products retain the natural texture and grain patterns of the leaves, making them a popular choice for events, and eco-conscious businesses. Beyond their aesthetic and practical appeal, they decompose within months, leaving no environmental footprint.
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Eco-friendly, Sustainable Jute Home Products
Known as the โgolden fibre,โ jute is biodegradable, renewable, and requires minimal resources to grow. India is the worldโs largest producer of jute, with West Bengal, Assam, and Bihar being the leading states involved in cultivation and production. As per Statista, The country contributes over 50% of global jute supply, supporting millions of livelihoods making jute products great sustainable eco-friendly product to source from India.
Jute is primarily derived from the bark of the jute plant. After harvesting, the fibres are extracted through a process called retting, followed by drying and spinning into threads. These are then woven into a wide range of products, including bags, rugs, ropes, mats, and packaging materials.
Jute farming also enriches the soil and reduces carbon emissions, making it an environmentally responsible choice.ย
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Eco-friendly, Sustainable Cork Products
Cork products are an eco-friendly alternative derived from the bark of cork oak trees, making them renewable, biodegradable, and recyclable. The harvesting process is highly sustainable, as the bark is stripped without harming the tree, which regenerates and can be harvested every 9โ12 years. This practice also helps cork oak forests absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to environmental conservation.
India has embraced cork products for their versatility and sustainability. Cork is transformed into a wide range of items, including furniture, bags, wallets, coasters, and even yoga mats. Its unique propertiesโlightweight, water-resistant, durable, and hypoallergenicโmaking cork products great sustainable eco-friendly products to source from India.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Recycled Cotton Products
Recycled cotton and chindi cotton are eco-friendly materials not only reduce textile waste but also contribute to a circular economy, making them ideal for environmentally conscious businesses.
Recycled cotton is made by reprocessing pre-consumer and post-consumer cotton waste, such as fabric scraps and used garments. This process conserves resources like water and energy while reducing landfill waste. Products made from recycled cotton include clothing, tote bags, upholstery, and home textiles.
Chindi cotton, derived from leftover fabric scraps (commonly from garment factories), is handwoven into vibrant and durable textiles and products including rugs, cushion covers, and mats.
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Eco-friendly, Sustainable Recycled PET Products
Recycled PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) products are pivotal in reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability. India stands out in this endeavor, achieving a remarkable PET recycling rate of 90%, surpassing countries like Japan, Europe, and the United States.ย
The Indian PET recycling industry is projected to grow exponentially, with an expected turnover exceeding โน13,500 crore (approximately $1.7 billion) in the next 4โ5 years.
Recycled PET is transformed into a diverse array of products, including textiles for clothing, bags, carpets, and upholstery. Notably, the Indian cricket teamโs uniforms are made from recycled PET bottles, exemplifying innovative applications. (Pet Recycling) Additionally, recycled PET is used to manufacture containers, bottles, and industrial materials, contributing to a circular economy.
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Eco-friendly, Sustainable Sabai Grass Products
Sabai grass, a natural and eco-friendly material, is gaining global attention for its sustainability and versatility. This grass, predominantly grown in Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand, is harvested, dried, and handwoven into a range of artisanal products by rural communities in India.
Known for its strength and durability, sabai grass is used to create a variety of sustainable products, including baskets, mats, trays, coasters, bags, and home dรฉcor items. These products are entirely biodegradable and made without harmful chemicals, making them a perfect alternative to plastic. The crafting process not only minimises environmental impact but also supports local artisans and promotes traditional weaving techniques.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Mango Wood Products
Mango wood products offer a perfect blend of sustainability and style, making them a popular sustainable eco-friendly product to source from India. Derived from mango trees that are no longer fruitful, the wood is a byproduct of the fruit industry, ensuring its use does not contribute to deforestation. This sustainable practice supports a circular economy, where every part of the tree is utilised effectively.
Known for its durability and unique grain patterns, mango wood is used to craft a wide range of products, including furniture, serving trays, bowls, chopping boards, shelves, and home dรฉcor items. Its lightweight yet sturdy nature makes it ideal for both functional and decorative purposes.
India is a prominent producer of mango wood products, with artisans in regions like Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh creating high-quality, handcrafted pieces.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Banana Fibre Products
Banana bark fibre products are an innovative and eco-friendly alternative crafted from the natural fibres of banana plants. The fibre, extracted from the pseudo-stem of the banana tree after fruiting, is biodegradable, renewable, and one of the strongest natural fibres. This sustainable practice utilises agricultural waste, reducing environmental impact and promoting zero-waste production.
India, a leading producer of bananas, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Kerala, has embraced banana fibre for its versatility and durability. Artisans transform this material into an array of products, including handbags, mats, ropes, paper, baskets, and textiles. The fibre is also used to create luxurious, soft fabrics that are lightweight, breathable, and perfect for clothing or home furnishings.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable, Organic, Herbal, Ayurvedic Beauty, Personal Care, Health and Wellness Products
India is a global leader in producing organic, herbal, and Ayurvedic health and wellness products, rooted in its ancient traditions and biodiversity. The countryโs rich heritage in Ayurvedaโa 5,000-year-old system of holistic healingโhas established India as a hub for natural remedies and wellness solutions and these products as top eco-friendly products sourced from India.
Sourcing these products from India ensures access to high-quality items made from organic and sustainably grown ingredients. Manufacturers adhere to rigorous quality standards, often certified by organizations like USDA Organic, India Organic, and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).
Products range from herbal, organic supplements, oils, and teas to skincare, haircare, and wellness items, catering to global demand for natural and toxin-free alternatives. States like Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan are key producers.
HCP Wellness Pvt. Ltd. is a Certified Custom Private Label Suppliers of Natural, Ayurvedic, Organic Beauty and Skin Care Products.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Stainless Steel Products
As one of the most widely recycled materials globally, stainless steel aligns with eco-friendly practices by reducing waste and conserving resources. India, a prominent producer of stainless steel, is known for high-quality products crafted in manufacturing hubs like Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, and Pune.
These products include kitchenware such as utensils, storage containers, plates, reusable straws and water bottles, as well as home items like furniture, and dรฉcor pieces. Stainless steel is valued for its resistance to rust, corrosion, and high temperatures, making it ideal for both functional and aesthetic applications.
Dewan and Sons is a Cerified Supplier producing all types of Metal and Stainless Steel Products.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Eco-felt Products
Eco-felt products, made from recycled plastic bottles, are a sustainable and innovative alternative to traditional materials. This fabric is crafted through a process that transforms plastic waste into durable felt: used PET bottles are collected, cleaned, shredded, melted, and extruded into fibres. These fibres are bonded together to create a soft yet strong textile.
India, with its commitment to sustainability, is emerging as a hub for eco-felt production, particularly in states like Rajasthan and Gujarat. Eco-felt is used to create a variety of products, including home dรฉcor items like rugs, cushions, and storage baskets, as well as fashion accessories such as bags and organisers.
These products are lightweight, durable, and environmentally friendly, contributing to reduced plastic pollution and supporting circular economies.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Terracotta and Clay Products
India, with its rich pottery traditions, is a major producer of terracotta and clay items, particularly in states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Artisans use age-old techniques to craft exquisite designs that reflect the countryโs cultural heritage.
The production process involves sourcing local clay, shaping it into desired forms using traditional techniques, and firing it in kilns to ensure durability. Indian artisans create a wide range of clay products, including terracotta cookware, earthen pots, decorative items, tiles, and tableware. These items are valued for their natural aesthetic, durability, and ability to retain heat and moisture.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Coir (Coconut Fiber) and Coconut Shell Products
Coir, derived from the husk of coconuts, is a versatile natural fibre used to create mats, brushes, plant pots, ropes, mattresses, plant liners, and eco-friendly packaging. Known for its durability, water resistance, and biodegradability, coir products are ideal for both functional and decorative purposes.
Coconut shells, on the other hand, are repurposed into a range of unique and stylish products such as bowls, cutlery, candles, planters, and handicrafts just like Manufacturer and Supplierย Thenga does. These products showcase the rich craftsmanship of artisans in coconut-producing states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Children's toys
Eco-friendly childrenโs toys are designed to prioritise safety, sustainability, and creativity, offering an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional plastic toys and are increasingly becoming top sustainable eco-friendly products sourced from India. These toys are crafted from natural, biodegradable, or recycled materials such as wood, bamboo, organic cotton, and non-toxic paints or dyes, ensuring they are safe for children and the planet.
Popular eco-friendly toys include wooden blocks, puzzles, fabric dolls, bamboo cars, and educational games, all made with a focus on durability and ethical production. Many toys also come with certifications like FSC (for sustainably sourced wood), GOTS (for organic textiles), and ASTM or EN71 (safety standards compliance), providing peace of mind for parents.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable packaging
India is a key player in producing eco-friendly packaging, with manufacturers focusing on high-quality, cost-effective solutions that cater to global markets.
Popular eco-friendly packaging materials include kraft paper, corrugated cardboard, recycled plastic, plant-based bioplastics, and natural fibers like jute and bamboo. Products range from paper bags and compostable mailers to reusable boxes and biodegradable food containers.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Yoga Products
India, the birthplace of yoga, is a leading source of eco-friendly yoga products, with artisans and manufacturers producing high-quality items that combine tradition with sustainability.
Popular eco-friendly yoga essentials include mats made from organic Cotton, cork, or jute, offering excellent grip and comfort without the use of harmful PVC or synthetic materials. Other sustainable options include cork yoga blocks, bamboo straps, organic cotton yoga bolsters, and meditation cushions. Reusable stainless steel water bottles and hemp yoga bags complete the eco-conscious kit.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Paper Products, Stationary
Eco-friendly stationery includes handmade paper notebooks, journals, envelopes, and planners etc. These items are often embellished with natural dyes and artisanal designs, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Recycled paper gift wraps, folders, and greeting cards are also popular options for conscious consumers.
Regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu are renowned for their handcrafted paper products, supporting rural artisans and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Pet Products
India is emerging as a leading destination for eco-friendly pet products.
Indiaโs eco-friendly pet products often utilise natural, biodegradable, and recycled materials. For instance, pet toys crafted from organic cotton, jute, and recycled wool felt are durable and safe for pets. Hemp-based leashes and collars are another standout, known for their strength, comfort, and minimal environmental impact.
Additionally, Indiaโs rich textile heritage inspires eco-conscious pet bedding, using handwoven fabrics, recycled cotton, and natural dyes. Feeding bowls made from sustainable materials like bamboo or ceramic are designed for functionality and aesthetics, often featuring artisanal finishes.
Avanti Overseas Pvt. Ltd. is a Certified Manufacturer and Exporter of Eco-friendly Pet Products.
Eco-friendly, Sustainable Bee wax Wraps
Beeswax wraps are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap, offering a reusable and biodegradable solution for food storage. Made from organic cotton infused with beeswax, resin, and natural oils like jojoba or coconut, these wraps are pliable, durable, and water-resistant. They can be used to cover bowls, wrap fruits, vegetables, bread, or snacks, keeping food fresh without the need for single-use plastic.
The production process involves coating organic cotton sheets with a melted beeswax mixture, creating a fabric that adheres to containers and folds easily around food items. With proper care, beeswax wraps can be reused for up to a year and composted at the end of their lifecycle.
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