Biography of Yash Bhatt: Founder of Brook and Blooms- Address Temple Floral Waste
Biography of Yash Bhatt:
The Birth of an Eco-Friendly Vision
Yash Bhatt, a passionate entrepreneur from Ahmedabad,
embarked on a transformative journey in 2018 with the founding of Brook and
Blooms. This innovative startup emerged from Yash’s desire to address a pressing
environmental issue: the disposal of temple floral waste. Alongside co-founder
Arjun Thakkar, Yash set out to create sustainable solutions for the substantial
amounts of biodegradable waste generated by religious offerings.
Early Days and Education
Yash’s academic background in Mechanical Engineering from
Silver Oak University and Ganpat University’s B. S. Patel Polytechnic laid the
groundwork for his entrepreneurial ambitions. His education equipped him with
critical problem-solving and design skills, which he later applied to his
startup. During his studies, Yash and Arjun recognized the potential to use
their engineering expertise to tackle environmental challenges.
The Problem of Floral Waste
In many places, flowers offered in temples are discarded as
waste, often ending up in landfills or water bodies. This not only contributes
to solid waste management issues but also harms aquatic ecosystems. The floral
waste, including coconut shells, typically creates pollution problems when not
managed properly, prompting Yash and Arjun to find a solution.
The Birth of Brook and Blooms
Brook and Blooms was established in September 2018, marking
the beginning of Yash and Arjun’s venture into waste management. Their startup
aimed to transform discarded floral offerings into valuable products like
incense sticks, dhoop sticks, and organic fertilizers. This initiative not only
addressed the waste problem but also provided livelihood opportunities for the
ragpicker community.
Initial Funding and Partnerships
The startup received an initial funding of Rs 95,000, which
enabled Yash and Arjun to kickstart their operations. They began their work in
a modest facility at Gujarat Technological University (GTU), where they
operated for three months. Their innovative approach soon caught the attention
of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), which supported their project by
providing transportation and operational assistance.
Biography of Yash Bhatt: Founder of Brook and Blooms- Address Temple Floral Waste/Age/Net worth/Yash Bhatt story/gf/Brook and Blooms/eentrepreneur
Scaling Up Operations
With the support from AMC, Brook and Blooms expanded its
operations. The startup set up a small facility near Victoria Garden at Lal
Darwaja, where they began manufacturing compost, Holi colors, and incense
sticks from floral waste. This facility enabled them to produce 200 kg of
compost, 12 kg of Holi colors, and 50 kg of incense sticks daily.
Expanding Reach and Impact
Brook and Blooms’ products are distributed across India
through e-commerce platforms and local stores in Ahmedabad. Their reach extends
beyond domestic markets, with customers in the US and Australia also accessing
their eco-friendly products. This international presence highlights the startup’s
commitment to sustainable practices on a global scale.
Research and Development
Yash and his team are continuously exploring new uses for
floral waste. They are researching the potential of marigold dyes and
rosewater, aiming to diversify their product range. This research reflects
their commitment to innovation and the pursuit of new solutions for waste
management.
Vision for Future Growth
Looking ahead, Yash and Arjun plan to scale Brook and Blooms
horizontally by expanding their product offerings and collaborating with other
urban local bodies across India. They have already received partnership offers
from 14 local bodies, which indicates the growing recognition of their work and
its impact.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the significant challenges faced by Brook and Blooms
is waste segregation. Dry and wet wastes are often mixed, complicating the
recycling process. Yash acknowledges this issue and emphasizes the importance
of raising awareness and improving waste management habits to address these
challenges effectively.
Innovations in Waste Management
The success of Brook and Blooms can be attributed to its
commitment to solving the problem of floral waste disposal. By continually
innovating and finding new applications for waste materials, Yash and his team
have developed a model that not only addresses environmental concerns but also creates
economic opportunities.
Recognition and Support
Brook and Blooms’ innovative approach has been recognized by
various platforms, including the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad. Yash
has participated in dialogues on inclusive innovation, further showcasing his
dedication to combining environmental sustainability with business acumen.
Building a Core Team
The core team of Brook and Blooms comprises 22 dedicated
individuals, including environmentalists and experts in various fields. This
team plays a crucial role in promoting the startup’s mission and driving its
growth. Their collective efforts are essential in advancing the startup’s goals
and ensuring its success.
Community Impact
Brook and Blooms not only benefits the environment but also
provides livelihoods to individuals in the ragpicker community. By creating job
opportunities and involving local communities in their operations, Yash and his
team are making a positive social impact alongside their environmental efforts.
Commitment to Sustainability
Yash Bhatt’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is
central to the success of Brook and Blooms. The startup’s focus on creating
eco-friendly products from temple waste reflects a broader vision of
environmental stewardship and responsible business practices.
Shaping a Greener Future
Through Brook and Blooms, Yash and his team are contributing
to a greener future by tackling the issue of floral waste and promoting
sustainable practices. Their work is an inspiring example of how
entrepreneurial initiatives can address environmental challenges and create
meaningful impact.
A Model for Others
Brook and Blooms serves as a model for other startups and
organizations looking to address waste management issues. Yash Bhatt’s journey
demonstrates how combining technical expertise with a commitment to social
causes can lead to innovative solutions and successful ventures.
Timeline for Yash Bhatt and Brook and Blooms story
2018 (September): Yash Bhatt and Arjun Thakkar founded Brook
and Blooms to address temple floral waste.
2018 (Early Days): Secured Rs 95,000 funding and started
operations at Gujarat Technological University.
2018 (Later in Year): Received support from Ahmedabad
Municipal Corporation for operations.
2019: Expanded operations to a new facility at Lal Darwaja,
began manufacturing eco-friendly products.
2020: Started distributing products across India and
internationally, including the US and Australia.
2021: Began researching new applications for floral waste
like marigold dyes and rosewater.
2022: Received partnership offers from 14 local bodies for
further expansion.
2023: Recognized by the Indian Institute of Management
Ahmedabad for innovation in inclusive sustainability.
2024: Core team expanded to 22 members, continued community
and environmental impact.
