EVM-CSR PROJECT

FY SEMESTER- II
Division N
GROUP NO. 3

GROUP MEMBERS
NANDINI AGARWAL-74022301695
DEV SARAWAGI- 74022300825
UJJWALA SHARMA -74022300917
LALIT RAJPUT BHATTU-74022300425
AKSHAT PADIYAR-74022300549
AAYUSH GUPTA-74022301482
 INDEX

S. NO. PARTICULARS PAGE

NUMBER
1 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 1

2 PROBLEM STATMENT 2

3 MARKET RESEARCH 3-6

4 PRDUCT DEVELOPMENT 7-8

5 SENIOR MENTOR 9

6 PRODUCT MENTOR 10

7 BUSINESS MODEL 11-13

8 BRANDING 14-15

9 MAPPING 16-21

10 FUTURE EXPANSION PLANS 22

11 CASE STUDY 23

12 CONTRIBUTION LOG 24
 1. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the completion of this
environmental management studies and corporate social responsibility project, which
required a blend of formal analysis and creative interpretation.

First and foremost, we express our deepest appreciation to Ms. Sameera Iyer, whose guidance
and support were invaluable throughout this endeavour. Their expertise and encouragement
empowered us to explore macroeconomic concepts with depth.
We are also thankful to our peers whose insightful discussions and feedback enriched our
understanding and helped refine our ideas. Their diverse perspectives sparked new insights
and inspired us to think critically about the intersection of real-world events and economic
theory.

Furthermore, we extend our gratitude to the authors of the article ‘‘Strike Madness’ Hits
Germany While Its Economy Stumbles’ for providing a rich source of inspiration. Their work
served as a catalyst for our exploration of macroeconomic principles in a real-world context,
and we are indebted to them for their contribution to the field.

This project would not have been possible without the collective effort and support of all
those mentioned above. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to delve into the
complexities of macroeconomics and to apply our knowledge in a formal yet creative manner.

Thank you.
 2. PROBLEM STATEMENT AND INDUSTRY
PROBLEMS

Industry: Stationery and office supplies

Specific Niche: sustainable markers and erasers
Problem Statement: How can I establish a sustainable office stationery business specializing in markers and
erasers to promote eco-friendliness, provide a unique product, and minimize environmental and social
damage, while ensuring affordability and incorporating ethical practices?

Damage Damage Direct Business Impact Indirect Business Details

Category Impact
Environmental Huge carbon Increased operational Damage to brand The significant carbon footprint poses
footprint costs (due to higher reputation, Customer financial risks, regulatory challenges, and
energy consumption), distrust, Potential legal reputational damage.
potential regulatory costs, and consequences Contributes significantly to climate
fines. change, deforestation, and air pollution,
posing severe threats to ecosystems,
biodiversity, and overall environmental
sustainability.
Water pollution Increased purification Reduced employee Contamination of water sources, harm to
costs, potential legal morale, stakeholder aquatic ecosystems, endangerment of
fines for environmental distrust, potential long- marine life, adverse effects on human
violations, damage to term harm to ecosystems health through contaminated drinking
company reputation. water, and disruption of the delicate
balance in aquatic ecosystems.

Microplastic Damage to brand Loss of competitiveness • The packaging materials used is harmful
reputation, regulatory in the market, legal for both land as well as the water life.
fines, bans on the procedure cost, loss in • Polyethylene (PE), pre-treated
product market shares polypropylene (PP) are two plastics which
are commonly used, and their improper
disposals make them rest in the landfills.
Resource Increased operational Increased costs for raw Over-extraction of fossil fuels contributes
depletion costs, potential materials, potential supply to climate change and depletes water
reputational damage for chain disruptions, and resources, which can lead to droughts.
business. heightened environmental
regulations.

Social Health Hazard boycotts, reputational long term brand damage, Common stationery items are
for Workers and damage, financial loss, demoralized employees, manufactured with chemicals which if
Consumers legal action. decreasing market share. ingested can cause severe health problems.
This poses major risk for both the
manufacturers and consumers. Child safety
at risk. Boycotts and protests can damage
reputation and negatively affect the market
share.

Disposable loss of consumer trust, negative media coverage, Consumers get accustomed to use and
Consumer regulatory restrictions, competitive disadvantage throw products which adversely affects the
Culture public pressure environment by creating unnecessary
waste and increasing the amount of plastic
which is non-biodegradable.
 3. MARKET RESEARCH

3.1 QUESTIONANAIRE SURVEY

3.2 DATA ANALYSIS

1. Usage Frequency:
The vast majority of users (95%) use markers, pens, or
erasers always, indicating a high demand for these
stationery items.

2. Age Range:
The age group of 15-20 years old comprises the majority
of respondents (76%), indicating that younger individuals
are more actively engaged in using stationery products.

3. Factors Important in Choosing Stationery Products:

Durability is the most important factor for users when
choosing stationery products, followed by aesthetics and
sustainability. Affordability is also a significant
consideration for a notable portion of respondents.

4. Shopping Preferences:
The majority of users prefer shopping for stationery
products offline through retail stores, indicating a
preference for physically examining and selecting
products.

5. Environmental Considerations:
A significant majority of respondents have considered the
environmental impact of stationery products they
purchase, highlighting a growing awareness of
sustainability issues.

6. Likelihood to Purchase Sustainable Products:

- A majority are very likely or maybe likely to purchase
stationery products made from sustainable or recycled
materials.

7. Willingness to Pay Premium:

-Many are willing to pay a premium for stationery
products, especially if they are sustainable or durable.
8. Price Range Preferences:
- Price preferences for markers range from 20-200, while for erasers, they range from 1-15.

9. Major Influencing factors:

-Personal preferences and aesthetics are the most significant
influence, followed by durability and affordability.
Sustainability is also gaining importance as a major factor
influencing purchase decisions.

10. Preferences for Refillable/Reusable Products:

-Most users prefer stationery products that are refillable or
reusable, emphasizing the importance of reducing waste and
promoting sustainability.

11. Importance of Packaging Sustainability:

Packaging sustainability is considered somewhat important to
important by a majority of users, indicating a concern for
reducing packaging waste.

12. Concerns About Durability of Sustainable Products:

The majority of users do not have concerns about the
durability or longevity of sustainable stationery products
compared to traditional ones, suggesting confidence in the
quality of eco-friendly options.

13. Desired Sustainable Stationery Products/Initiatives:

- Reusable notebooks: 3 users (14%)
- Sustainable inks: 1 user (5%)
- Affordable environmental-friendly stationery: 1 user (5%)
- Good quality writing pads and ink pads: 1 user (5%)
- Packaging from recycled materials: 1 user (5%)
- Notebooks made from sustainable paper: 1 user (5%)

FINAL TAKEAWAY:
Based on the data provided, the major influences when buying stationery items include
personal preferences and aesthetics, durability, sustainability considerations, affordability,
and peer or colleague influence. Consumers value stationery products that align with their
preferences, offer good quality and durability, and are environmentally friendly.
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, with a notable interest in products made
from sustainable or recycled materials. Additionally, there's a willingness to pay a premium
for eco-friendly and durable stationery products. Refillable and reusable options are also
preferred, and packaging sustainability is considered important by some consumers. Overall,
there's a demand for stationery items that balance functionality, aesthetics, durability, and
environmental consciousness.

3.3 SECONDARY DATA AND INPUTS AND LINKS

Article Links
https://www.treehugger.com/green-guide-for-stationery-lovers-5212200
https://left-handesign.com/en-my/blogs/news/abeginners-guideto-sustainable-stationery
https://www.theecoloop.com/post/5-effective-ways-to-beat-the-plastic-pen-pollution
Video Links
https://youtu.be/LpY2Nr9UQtg?si=M3xLfM7oUXcas0fZ
https://youtu.be/dtt5rDzVnbI?si=rBOAwUN_pWPkupT9
https://youtu.be/jT43USHegEs?si=1vR73ppRKOSAjxQV

Summary
Summarizing the above article and videos, we found that the pens which are put into landfills
daily are 27 lakh and per year the number increases up to 990 crores. The secondary data also
highlights how we can reduce our impact on the environment by choosing eco-friendly
alternatives. The majority of consumers in the stationery industry are students, we found out
that it is important to spread awareness about two things:
1) Awareness about the Product: Most consumers are not even aware of the existing
products.
2) Impacts of using non-sustainable stationery on the environment which will help the
consumers to choose sustainable over harmful stationery products.
Learnings from the article:
• There is progress in changing the policies and making the change at the source level,
till then consumers should be mindful of what they choose to buy as there will be
consequences in the long run.
• The consumers should stop accepting bad-quality pens at conferences or workshops,
by carrying their sustainable stationery.
• To encourage the young generation to switch to more sustainable options which will
drive a huge change in consumer consumption patterns.
• The one-time-use plastic pens should be re-used for any art or other purposes.
The secondary data underscores the primary significance of embracing practices such as
recycling, reducing, and reusing within the realm of sustainable consumption. Additionally, it
highlights alternative options available to mitigate reliance on non-sustainable writing
implements such as pens, markers, pencils, and other related items.
 4. PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

4.1 PRODUCT CONCEPT

We Earthwise, a new startup, are ready to transform the stationary sector with our latest
innovation: a range of environmentally friendly erasers and markers crafted entirely from
biodegradable materials. Recognizing the urgent need to reduce waste post-disposal, Earthwise
has carefully crafted these items using a special combination of natural rubber and
biodegradable polymers. This ensures that they not only excel in their main function but also
break down harmlessly back into the environment after use. The erasers demonstrate
outstanding durability and a smudge-free erasing ability, while the markers feature bright, non-
toxic shades sourced from natural dyes. This revolutionary product collection not only tackles
the environmental impact of conventional stationary items but also educates and motivates
users to adopt more sustainable choices in their everyday lives, fitting perfectly with
Earthwise's objective to merge product effectiveness with environmental responsibility. To
make it look appealing we designed it in an earthly tone reflecting its true purpose towards the
environment, further explanation regarding the design is given ahead.

Material selection:

- Natural Rubber: Natural rubber originates from rubber tree latex, making it a sustainable
option for the eraser's primary component due to its biodegradability and renewability.

- Natural Fillers (Calcium Carbonate): Calcium carbonate, a natural mineral sourced

sustainably, aids in bulking up the eraser while decreasing rubber usage to reduce
environmental impact.

- Plant-Based Plasticizers: Plant-based plasticizers enhance eraser flexibility and durability,

minimizing fossil fuel dependence and harmful chemical emissions during production.

- Sulphur: Sulphur’s role in rubber vulcanization reinforces material strength and stability,
emphasizing minimal usage to prevent environmental harm.

- Zinc Oxide (Activator): Zinc oxide acts as a vulcanization activator, accelerating reactions
and enhancing overall eraser performance, with a focus on eco-friendly sourcing.

- Eco-Friendly Accelerators: Eco-friendly accelerators speed up vulcanization processes

while maintaining minimal environmental impact during manufacturing.

- Natural Antioxidants: Natural antioxidants extend the eraser's shelf life and quality,
substituting synthetic chemicals with sustainable sources to support longevity and quality.

Selection of these materials in specific proportions allows the creation of a sustainable

eraser with reduced environmental impact, without compromising quality and
performance.
4.2 LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT

Product: Erasers
Stages:

Cradle-to-Grave (C2G): The arrival of raw materials like natural rubber, calcium carbonate,
plant-based plasticizers, sulphur, zinc oxide, eco-friendly accelerators, and natural antioxidants
at the manufacturing facility initiates the eco-friendly eraser production process. These
materials are combined using the Banbury Rubber Mixer Machine for an even composition,
emphasizing energy efficiency and waste reduction. The vulcanization process in the Rubber
Vulcanizing Machine, employing sulphur and zinc oxide, plays a crucial role in enhancing
eraser durability with minimal environmental impact. Eco-friendly accelerators assist in
speeding up this process, reducing energy consumption. The shaping of vulcanized rubber into
erasers is executed by the Rubber Moulding Machine, utilizing precision for optimal yield. The
careful selection of materials, energy preservation, and waste management in manufacturing
showcases a committed effort to minimize environmental effects.

End-of-Life (EoL): During the End-of-Life phase, the eraser displays a minimal
environmental impact when disposed of or recycled. The eraser's primary component,
natural rubber, is biodegradable, allowing it to break down naturally, lessening landfill
pressure and methane emissions linked to non-biodegradable waste. The presence of
calcium carbonate and other environmentally conscious ingredients ensure that the
eraser's decomposition has little impact on environmental pollution. By selecting
materials wisely and incorporating sustainable manufacturing techniques, the eraser can
be responsibly disposed of at the end of its lifespan through natural decay or potential
recycling programs, thereby embodying circular economy principles and reducing its
ecological impact.
 5. SENIOR MENTOR

Name: Yakshita Lohar

Contact: 9321758146

Meeting dates:
22/01/24
25/01/24
29/01/24
12/02/24
23/02/24
5/03/24
2/04/24
 4. PRODUCT MENTOR

Name: MR. NAYNESH PASARI

LinkedIn Profile:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nayneshpasari?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share
_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
Email: nayneshpasari@skpmil.com

Confirmation:

Meeting Dates:
20/02/24
17/03/24
 5. BUSINESS MODEL

7.1 Detailed Costing of Materials

PARTICULARS STANDARD COST COST PER UNIT

VARIABLE COSTS

Raw material:
Natural Rubber: 45%(13 g) Rs.150/kg 1.95
Natural Fillers (Calcium Carbonate): Rs.34/kg 0.357
35%(10.5 g)
Plant-Based Plasticizers: 8% (2.4 g) Rs.119/kg 0.2856
Sulfur: 3% (0.9 g) Rs.15/kg 0.0135
Zinc Oxide (Activator): 2% (0..6 g) Rs.270/kg 0.162
Eco-Friendly Accelerators: 2% (0.6 Rs.360/kg 0.216
g)
Natural Antioxidants: 1%( 0.3 g) Rs220/kg 0.066

Factory Cost:
Labour wages 80,000 (8 workers) 0.8
Electricity 8,000 0.026
Water 2,000 0.006
Land rent 60,000 0.2

FIXED COSTS

Machines:
Banbury Rubber Mixer Machine Rs.5,00,000 Rs.5,00,000
Rubber Vulcanizing Machine Rs.4,00,000 Rs.4,00,000
Rubber Molding Machine Rs.5,00,000 Rs.5,00,000

Others:
Transportation of raw materials 5,000 5,000
Distribution of finished products 4,000 4,000
E commerce and Own website costs 1,50,000 1,50,000

7.2 Revenue And Profit

1. Online Retail Sales:
• Platforms: Amazon India, Flipkart, Snapdeal.
• Own E-commerce Site: Develop a branded site for direct sales with higher margins.
• Revenue Goal: Rs. 10 million from an anticipated sale of 1 million units
• Profit: Rs. 7,768,300
2. Subscription Model:
• Service: Regular delivery to subscribers.
 • Revenue Goal: Rs. 6 million from 1,000 subscribers at Rs. 500/month.
• Profit: N/A
3. Bulk Sales to Educational Institutions and Businesses:
• Marketplace: IndiaMART, TradeIndia.
• Revenue Goal: Rs. 5 million targeting 100 schools with orders averaging Rs. 50,000.
• Profit: N/A
4. Customization Services:
• Offering: Personalized branding for corporate clients.
• Revenue Goal: Rs. 2 million from 20 corporate clients with orders averaging Rs. 100,000.
• Profit: Rs. 2,000,000
5. Cross-Selling and Upselling:
• Products: Complementary sustainable stationery items.
• Revenue Goal: Rs. 12.5 million assuming 25% of customers add items worth Rs. 50.
• Profit: Rs. 12,500,000
6. Affiliate Marketing:
• Program: Collaboration with eco-friendly platforms.
• Revenue Goal: Rs. 0.5 million with a 5% commission on sales.
• Profit: Rs. 500,000
Total Projected Revenue:
• First Year Estimate: Rs. 36 million from combined revenue streams.
• Total profit = Rs. 7,768,300 + Rs. 2,000,000 + Rs. 12,500,000 + Rs. 500,000
Total profit = Rs. 22,768,300
So, the total profit from the revenue streams excluding the models 2&3 would be Rs.
22,768,300.
Additional information
• Online Retail Sales: This is our primary revenue generator. By selling directly to consumers
through our e-commerce platform, we ensure high profit margins.
• Bulk Sales to Educational Institutions and Businesses: We’re offering bulk orders with
tiered pricing to schools, colleges, and eco-conscious businesses. This approach encourages
large volume purchases at a more affordable rate, making it an attractive option for
institutions.
• Subscription Model: Customers can subscribe to receive a predetermined quantity of erasers
and markers at regular intervals. This model provides a reliable and predictable revenue
stream.
• Online Marketplaces: By partnering with major e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and
Flipkart, we expand our reach. Sales generated through these platforms are based on a
commission model, allowing us to tap into a larger audience.
• Affiliate Marketing: We collaborate with influencers and affiliate networks, paying a
commission for traffic or sales generated from their referrals. This strategy helps broaden our
marketing reach without upfront advertising costs..

7.3 Supply Chain

• Raw Materials (natural rubber, zinc oxide, plasticizers, etc.) will be
transported to the warehouse through trucks (roadways since,
Raw Material every raw material is in bangalore) where the production will take
Transport place.

• Warehouse (In Banerghatta Road), where the raw materials will be

stocked for the month and the product will be put together. After
Warehouse that the product will be ready to reach the consumer.

• To Retailers (Roadways): To reach the larger audience the

stationery items will be supplied to the retailers.
Distribution
• To Customers (Roadways): By placing the order online the product
will be shipped directly from thw warehouse.
7.4 MANFACTURER COST CONFIRMATION

RAW MATERIALS
NATURAL RUBBER PLANT BASED PLASTICIZERS

Natural Fillers, Sulfur and Eco-friendly accelerator

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1W_OBENG8JP_vHCla2XXds8Xh6tDrWtkT?usp=sharing

Zinc Oxide
Natural Antioxidants

Zinc oxide price:

270 per kg for industrial use
430 per kg for pharma use
Manufacturer: Triveni Chemicals
Contact: 7043664015

FACTORY COST
Banbury Rubber Mixer Machine
https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/banbury-rubber-mixer-machine-
10472506955.html

Rubber Vulcanizing Machine

https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/rubber-vulcanizing-machine-
25905621230.html

Rubber Molding Machine

https://www.indiamart.com/proddetail/rubber-molding-machine-11148191012.html
 8. BRANDING
8.1 BRAND IDENTITY
Earthwise position itself as an innovative brand with responsible sourcing ensuring it aligns
with principles of sustainability.

8.2 LOGO

8.3 Marketing Channels

Digital Channels:
• Social Media: We'll use Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook for brand awareness,
engaging with our community, and showcasing our products, especially through
visual platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.
• Content Marketing: Our blog will host articles on the importance of sustainable
supplies, recycling tips, and greener office practices, improving our SEO and
attracting organic traffic.
• Email Marketing: By building an email list, we aim to keep our audience informed
about new products and sustainability tips, enhancing customer relations.
• SEO: Optimizing our website with eco-friendly related keywords will boost our
search engine visibility.
• Paid Advertising: Google Ads and social media ads will target eco-conscious
consumers, supplemented by retargeting strategies.

Traditional Channels:
• Events and Trade Shows: We plan to showcase our products at eco-focused events
for direct customer engagement.
• Public Relations: Features in sustainability publications and press releases will
increase our media presence.
• Networking: Joining related groups and associations will help us connect with
potential advocates.
• Direct Mail: Eco-friendly mailers will target businesses interested in sustainable
supplies.
• Partnerships: Collaborations with like-minded brands and organizations will broaden
our reach.

Hybrid Channels:
• Webinars/Workshops: Hosting events on workplace sustainability will position us as
thought leaders.
• Affiliate Marketing: Partnering with eco-friendly influencers will extend our reach
through personal endorsements.
 8.4 CONSUMER VALUE PROPOSITION

Value Benefits to
Proposition Customers How We Deliver Why Us?
By integrating recycled
Minimizes the plastics and biodegradable Our approach redefines
environmental materials into our product environmental stewardship in office
Eco-Friendly footprint associated line, including erasers and supplies, elevating eco-efficiency
Office Supplies with office essentials. markers. beyond conventional benchmarks.
Through stringent quality Our offerings debunk the myth that
Promotes longevity assurance and the adoption eco-friendly products lack
and diminishes the of innovative, sustainable durability, ensuring a wise
High-Quality frequency of materials that enhance investment for the eco-conscious
and Durable replacements. durability. consumer.
Via ongoing R&D efforts We pioneer a design ethos that
Augments the user aimed at achieving a places equal weight on ecological
experience with balance between responsibility and user satisfaction,
Innovative superior ergonomics sustainability and user- ensuring our products are not only
Design and functionality. centric design. green but also gratifying to use.
Beyond commerce, our mission is to
Through active engagement cultivate and nurture a community
Elevates awareness via workshops, social dedicated to sustainable living,
Education and and understanding of media, and collaborations positioning us as frontrunners in
Community sustainable practices. with environmental groups. eco-conscious education.
Our unwavering commitment to
Builds confidence in By offering complete openness sets us apart, cultivating a
the ethical production visibility into our supply foundation of trust and loyalty
Transparency and sourcing of chain, from material among our environmentally aware
and Trust supplies. sourcing to manufacturing. clientele.
Leveraging competitive Our products stand at the
pricing and the inherent intersection of eco-friendliness and
Ensures savings over longevity of our products to cost-efficiency, offering tangible,
time with durable, lower total cost of long-term savings for our
Cost-Effective high-quality products. ownership. consumers.
 9. MAPPING

9.1 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:

Launching sustainable stationery products aligns with several United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), which are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the
planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030. Below mentioned are
goals we wish to fulfill with our business:

1. Sustainable Consumption and Production (SDG 12): We are using natural raw materials for
sustainable erasers and markers which signifies responsible consumption and production
cycle. This, therefore, contributes to SDG 12, which emphasizes sustainable consumption and
production patterns.

2. Climate Action (SDG 13): By using soy ink, natural rubber and other sustainable materials
, our start-up will reduce our carbon footprint substantially and thereby contribute to
mitigating climate change, aligning with SDG 13 for climate action.

3. Life on Land (SDG 15):We aim to source our raw materials responsibly and sustainably, in
turn, protecting terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity and reducing deforestation. This
measure supports SDG 15's objectives regarding life on land.

4. Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3): Using eco-friendly materials for manufacturing can
also indirectly benefit health and well-being by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals
which are often found in traditional stationery products, aligning with SDG 3 which talks
about Good health and well-being.

5. Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8): Our start-up will create employment
opportunities and contribute to economic growth. By prioritizing fair labor practices and
supporting local communities, we will fulfill SDG 8.

6. Life Below Water (SDG 14): Using natural and sustainable materials reduces the use of
plastics and synthetic chemicals that can harm marine life. It indirectly contributes to
preserving ocean ecosystems and biodiversity.

7. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure(SDG 9): Our start-up idea represents innovative
practices in the stationery industry by introducing sustainable alternatives. This can further
inspire other businesses to adopt similar strategies, fostering industry-wide innovation
towards sustainability.
9.2 Environmental Social Governance (ESG) Framework:

Our business model aligns with ESG principles by focusing on environmental sustainability
(using natural materials and soy ink), social responsibility (promoting eco-friendly products
and potentially supporting local communities), and governance (ensuring transparent and
ethical business practices).

1. Environmental Factors:
- Material Sourcing: ESG encourages responsible material sourcing. We follow this by
using natural materials for erasers and soy ink for markers. This helps minimize
environmental impact by reducing the use of synthetic or toxic materials.
- Energy Efficiency: ESG promotes energy-efficient production processes. We aim to
support this by using renewable energy sources into our operations and implementing energy-
saving measures in the manufacturing facilities.
- Waste Management: Proper waste management practices, such as recycling and reducing
waste generation, are essential aspects of ESG. By implementing these practices in our
factories, we can help minimize environmental pollution and resource depletion.

2. Social Factors:
- Labor Practices: ESG emphasizes fair labor practices and human rights. By ensuring
suppliers and manufacturing partners adhere to ethical labor standards, including fair wages,
safe working conditions and respecting rights of workers, we incorporate this principle in our
business.
- Community Engagement: Through active engagement with local communities and
supporting social initiatives, we will demonstrate our commitment to social responsibility.
Furthermore, we will include partnering with NGOs, supporting education programs and
contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
- Customer Health and Safety: ESG also considers product safety and consumer health. We
will ensure that our stationery products meet regulatory standards and prioritize the use of
non-toxic materials to protect both consumers and the environment.

3. Governance Factors:
- Transparency: Transparency in business operations is a key aspect of ESG. Maintaining
transparent communication with stakeholders regarding our environmental and social
initiatives, supply chain practices, and overall sustainability performance will help us align
with this principle.
- Ethical Business Practices: We will uphold this by promoting ethical business practices,
including anti-corruption measures, fair competition, and accountability, which are essential
for ESG compliance and building trust with customers, investors, and partners.
- Board Diversity and Accountability: ESG encourages board diversity and effective
governance structures. By promoting diversity and inclusion within our teams and
implementing robust governance mechanisms, we will ensure accountability and broad
diversity.
9.3 Stakeholder Analysis

Customers: Customers are one of the primary stakeholders for Earthwise. The customers are
interested in purchasing their needs with their values. They expect high-quality erasers and
markers that are eco-friendly, non-toxic, and durable.

Suppliers: The suppliers are important stakeholders since, they are the once supplying us raw
materials. For example: Maxran Corporation is proving the company with plant-based
plasticizer. To create strong relationships with the supplier is crucial to ensure a sustainable
and reliable supply chain.

Workers: Since workers are the ones who contribute to the success of a company with their
work and dedication. Ensuring them fair wages, safe working environment and opportunities
for personal development are key concerns for our stakeholder group.
Investors: Investors have a financial interest in the company’s performance and sustainability.
They expect the company to generate returns while also adhering to ethical and
environmental practices. Providing the transparency to the investors about the company’s
sustainability practices and financial performance is essential for maintaining trust and
support from this stakeholder group.

Government and Regulatory Agencies: Government agencies set standards and regulations
that impact the operations of Earthwise. With accord to the environmental regulations,
product safety standards, and labour laws is important for avoiding the legal risks and
maintaining the company’s license to operate.

Environmental Organizations: Environmental organizations and advocacy groups are

stakeholders that monitor and advocate for sustainable practices within industries.
Collaborating with these organizations, seeking certification from reputable eco-labels, and
implementing environmentally friendly initiatives can enhance the company’s reputation and
credibility as a sustainable business.

Competitors: Competitors like Apsara and Camlin in the eraser and markers industry are also
stakeholders, with conflicting interests. Monitoring their sustainability practices, innovating
to stay ahead in sustainable product offerings, and then collaborating with industry peers on
sustainability initiatives help the company to maintain a competitive edge while advancing
sustainability goals.

Public Opinion: Public opinion shape perceptions of the company and its sustainability
efforts. Maintaining an open communication, responding promptly to inquiries and concerns
of the consumers, and proactively sharing stories of sustainability achievements help shape a
positive public image and build brand loyalty.
9.4 USE OF NUDGES

Nudges, are the smallest of changes that drives the consumers to behave in a desired manner
without hindering their freedom of choices We will use the following nudges for our
products:

1. Default Option - When offering consumers a choice between purchasing eraser and
markers, the eco-friendly eraser and marker will be designated as the default option. This
implies that unless the consumer actively chooses an alternative, they will be given the
sustainable choice, subtly promoting the environmentally friendlier selection.

2. Social Norming & Misperceptions – it will involve highlighting how popular and accepted
eco-friendly erasers and markers are among peers and influential communities like statistics
on packaging or in ads showing how consumers have transitioned to this sustainable choice,
creating a sense of social norm. Addressing common misconceptions about eco-friendly items
being less effective or pricier through educational materials that emphasize the erasers and
marker’s effectiveness, competitive pricing, and environmental advantages.

3. Simplification – We’ll use concise, clear messaging packaging or marketing materials to

highlight the eco-friendly benefits of the eraser and marker, such as "98 % biodegradable."
This approach aims to make it easier for consumers to understand the environmental
advantages quickly.

4. Direct Reminders - We will send reminders through email or social media platforms
regarding the significance of making sustainable decisions in everyday life, like using
environmentally friendly office supplies. These reminders would contain cues to repurchase
the eco-friendly eraser and marker or details about recycling initiatives for the products.

5. Subtle Suggestions – We’ll place the products strategically in stores at eye level or in high-
traffic areas accompanied by signage or displays subtly highlighting their advantages with
messages like “Choose Green Today!”. On e-commerce platforms we will prompt customers
with suggestions like “People who value the environment also selected this product/option”
to influence their buying choices.

6. Behavioural Nudge – Rewards in the form of discounts on future purchases, loyalty points,
or donations to environmental causes in the customer's name to reinforce sustainable choices
would be given. This strategy encourages customers to opt for eco-friendly options and
supports environment friendly behaviour in the long run.

7. Green Nudge - The selection of the eco-friendly eraser will specifically emphasize its
positive influence on the environment, such as decreasing plastic waste and harmful
chemicals. We will utilize visual tools like infographics to compare the environmental
footprint with traditional alternatives to be more effective.
9.5 Corporate Social Responsibility

Implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) measures for EARTHWISE:

1. Sustainable Sourcing: Ensuring that the materials used in our markers, pens, and erasers
are sourced from responsibly managed facilities or recycled materials to minimize
environmental impact.

2. Carbon Footprint Reduction: One of the key reasons for Carbon emissions is supply chain.
We will focus on reducing the emissions caused by transportation and also try to go for
renewable energy sources for manufacturing and other processes.

3. Waste Reduction and Recycling: There would be a dedicated team of individuals to ensure
the wastage would not go to landfills and their first priority would be to find innovative
solutions for recycling and to repurpose the wastage.

4. Lifecycle Assessment: LCA (life cycle assessment) can help us improve specific stages all
the way from sourcing our raw material to disposal and make the product much more
environment friendly.

5. Awareness: We will educate the consumers (mainly students) through campaigns and
interactions to spread awareness around the products of Earthwise.

6. Community Engagement: We will partner with local communities to encourage and spread
awareness about our eco-friendly products and any services that we provide.

7. Transparency and Accountability: Maintaining transparency and disclosing how the

company contributed to ESG. A detailed quarterly report will be published on the website.

8. Certifications and Standards: We will ensure that all our operations are ethical and follow
the required standards and measures for responsible production and consumption.

These are the few CSR guidelines that our company follows.
9.6 CHALLENGES

Challenges for any company are an opportunity to grow and rebuild itself into something
new. Few challenges we anticipate are:
1. Finding and keeping a steady supply of eco-friendly materials is tough because they're
hard to find and can get expensive. This makes it tricky to keep making our products
without changing costs too much.

2. Switching to eco-friendly manufacturing isn't easy. It costs a lot at first and there's a
lot to learn. We need to keep coming up with new ideas to make green processes work
well without lowering our product quality.

3. Creating a green distribution network is complicated. Since most shipping uses a lot
of fossil fuels, we have to think of new ways to send our products without harming
the planet too much.

4. It's hard to make more people want to buy green products. We need to change how
people think about buying things, getting them to care more about being eco-friendly
than just looking at the price or how easy something is to use.

5. Keeping up with green rules and laws is tough because they keep changing. We have
to stay alert and be ready to change how we do things to follow these new rules.

6. As more businesses start selling eco-friendly products, the competition gets tougher.
We need to show that we're really committed to being green to stand out.

7. Staying up-to-date with the latest green technology is a double-edged sword. While it
offers new opportunities, there's also the risk of investing in something that might
soon become outdated.

8. Keeping our business financially healthy while sticking to green practices is

challenging. Using eco-friendly materials and processes usually costs more, which
can affect how we price our products and our profits.

9. Making sure our supply chain can handle unexpected problems, like pandemics or
trade issues, is important. We need a solid plan to keep getting the eco-friendly
materials we need, no matter what happens.
 10. FUTURE EXPSANSION PLAN

1. Product Diversification: We will expand our product line to satisfy the growing consumer
needs and at the same time making them ecofriendly. Some of the future stationary supplies
we want to manufacture includes eco-friendly whitening tape, glue, stickers etc.

2. Market Expansion: the company will Explore new markets and distribution channels, both
domestically and internationally, to reach a larger customer base. This could be achieved by
supplying to new cities, states and then exporting to other countries. It can happen through
nurturing partnerships with retailers, online platforms, and educational institutions.

3. Research and Development: Investing in new technology and innovative ways to

encourage sustainability and to maintain our products to be eco-friendly. This could help in
goodwill of the company and can get us long term loyal customer base. And it also helps us
to stay ahead of competitors by meeting evolving demands of consumers.

4. Brand Building: Strengthen brand awareness and cultivate customer loyalty through the
implementation of carefully devised marketing strategies, impactful social media initiatives,
and collaborations with environmentally conscious influencers and organizations. Establish
our brand as a leader in sustainability and innovation within the stationery industry.

5. Sustainability Partnerships: Building partnerships with environmental organizations,

NGOs, and sustainable suppliers to increase our commitment to social responsibility.
Collaborating on initiatives such as tree planting programs, plastic waste reduction
campaigns, and community outreach events.

6. Corporate Social Responsibility: Earthwise will implement robust CSR initiatives focused
on environmental conservation, social impact, and ethical business practices. This will
include carbon offset programs, fair labour practices, and contributions to community
development projects.

By following the mention above, we aim for sustainable growth and success while making a
positive impact on the environment and society.
 11. CASE STUDY

Introduction:
Our products are a forward-thinking initiative aimed at revolutionizing the stationery industry
with the introduction of sustainable markers, pens and recycled erasers. Stationary industry's
heavy dependence on non-biodegradable materials exacerbates environmental concerns as it
perpetuates the accumulation of waste and pollution without adequate measures for
sustainable disposal or alternatives.
Challenges:
Conventional markers, pens and erasers contribute to environmental degradation through
their use of synthetic materials and slow decomposition rates. The microplastics present in
these items can take hundreds of years to decompose. The industry needs eco-friendly
alternatives that perform well while minimizing environmental impact.
Solution:
Our pens and markers use bamboo wood for their bodies which is biodegradable. The designs
of our products prioritize refillability and long-term usability to curtail waste and leverage
sustainable materials to potentially reduce manufacturing emissions by up to 50%, echoing
the principles of life cycle assessment for environmental preservation. Our erasers are
manufactured using 100% natural rubber and chemicals which are environment friendly.
Impact:
We anticipate a 40% reduction in plastic waste and a 30% decline in the usage of harmful
chemicals. From an economic perspective, we aim to demonstrate potential consumer savings
of approximately 25% over the lifespan of each product, advocating for a transition to more
sustainable consumption patterns.
Business Model:
The business model focuses on sustainability and ethical production practices, including
sourcing recycled materials and transparent communication. Our aim is to minimize resource
depletion through responsible sourcing, reduce the carbon footprint by optimizing supply
chains.
Conclusion:
To conclude, our eco-friendly stationery brand is committed to sustainability through the
production of environmentally-conscious erasers and wooden markers crafted from recycled
materials, ensuring that the products' end-of-life contributes positively to the environment,
thus supporting the creation of new pens, markers and erasers. By addressing environmental
concerns and meeting consumer demand, it sets a standard for future eco-friendly
endeavours.
• Our eco-friendly solution represents more than just stationery items; they symbolize a
commitment to environmental science and corporate social responsibility.
• Through prioritizing sustainability, this initiative aims to inspire a paradigm shift in
consumer behaviour.
• By setting a precedent within the stationery industry, we aspire to pave the way for a
future that is both sustainable and environmentally conscious.
12. CONTRIBUTION LOG