A derivative of coconut husk, coco peat is an excellent substitute for soil and can be used for growing plants.

Usually considered waste and thrown away after extracting fibre from coconut husks, this by-product, also known as pith, has many properties, including enhancing the fertility of soil.

Anees Ahmed, a biotechnologist, realised this and conducted detailed research on the uses of cocopeat.

In 2014, he launched Global Green Coir in Chennai, which sells various products made out of pith, including coir pots, blocks, discs, grow bags and more.

Using this powerful golden dust, he has achieved an annual turnover of Rs 75 crore through exports to various countries.

“Tamil Nadu is the largest supplier and producer of coco peat in India. The market for the soil is mainly international, especially in European countries where the soil fertility is quite low,” says Anees.

Global Green Coir not only exports coco peat but also customises its products by mixing nutrients in it.

The company first collects coconut husks and cleans them thoroughly to remove any impurities like leaves, fibres and other wastes from it.

The peat is then rinsed in water as coconut fibre has high salt content.

“Cocopeat is mainly used for commercial growing in greenhouses or nurseries abroad, where soil fertility is a big problem,” says Anees.

Global Green Coir customises its products by mixing peat with nutrients. It is then turned into blocks, discs, and grow bags for export.