G20 summit 2023 uses Responsible Whatr cans as non-plastic alternative for water bottles, ET TravelWorld

Making a small, yet big, difference against the backdrop Prime Minster’s call to keep G20 Summit plastic-free, India’s homegrown sustainable startup, Responsible Whatr provided natural spring water beverage in eco-friendly aluminium cans packaging via its collaboration with ITC Hotels.

This partnership further highlighted Responsible Whatr’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices on a global platform.

“The decision to use aluminium for packaging was a natural choice, as it avoids contributing to landfills and is infinitely recyclable, unlike glass and plastic, which are typically downcycled,” said Ankur Chawla, Founder and CEO, Responsible Whatr.

“In fact, the cans currently in circulation are crafted from 70% recycled aluminium. Furthermore, aluminium cans maintain the water’s freshness even when exposed to light or heat, ensuring that consumers enjoy a consistently refreshing and cold beverage,” he shared.

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Located in Solan in the Himalayas and having a pan-India presence, the brand was launched during the global pandemic and witnessed soaring demand as consumers increasingly prioritise environmentally sustainable options. In response to this surge in popularity, the homegrown startup is planning an expansion into several new states, including Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Goa, within the next quarter, the brand shared. This expansion will not only create more job opportunities but also support the local economy back in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, it said.

The brand recently surpassed the milestone of one million aluminium cans sold through both online and offline distribution channels diverting use of plastic bottles through successful adoption of Aluminium Cans.

Since its inception on June 5, 2020, in celebration of World Environment Day, Responsible Whatr has been adhering to sustainable practices and aggressive marketing, even during a time when the hotel and tourism industry was severely impacted by the pandemic.

The brand reportedly achieved a milestone by selling 50,000 cans within just 70 days of its product launch. According to the company, the demand for Responsible Whatr has been evenly distributed across retail, online, and HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, and Cafe) channels, with a strong online presence spanning across India and a physical presence in Delhi NCR, Maharashtra, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Himachal Pradesh.

“Responsible Whatr remains committed to its mission of promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility through its premium natural spring water product. As the brand expands its presence to new regions in India, we anticipate continued success and a growing impact on reducing single-use plastics while delivering a refreshing and environmentally conscious beverage option to consumers,” Bhrigu Seth, Co founder, Responsible Whatr.

Currently, Responsible Whatr is physically available in six states across India. In Delhi, the brand can be found online and the HoReCa segment, including prominent establishments like Like ITC Hotels, Taj Palace, JW Marriott, Grand Hyatt, The Lodhi, The Leela, Holiday inn, etc. Restaurants such as Kampai, Sidecar, My Tea Chapel; Café and Clubs like The Quorum Club, Meta offices (Facebook), Greener etc.