In a compelling demonstration of how sustainability and entrepreneurship can coexist, two childhood friends from Bengaluru have built a stationery brand that is driving environmental impact across India. Rescript, co-founded by Naren Raj and Ashutosh Ananth, is redefining the paper industry by converting waste paper into premium, eco-friendly stationery.
Since its inception in 2021, Rescript has recycled more than 500 tonnes of paper, helping save an estimated 9,200 trees, 18.4 million litres of water, and preventing the emission of over 431,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide. The brand’s environmentally conscious approach is rooted in circular economy principles and resonates with both corporate and individual consumers.
A Shared Vision for Sustainability
Raj and Ananth, friends since nursery school, pursued their undergraduate degrees at Christ University before diverging briefly into corporate roles. Their entrepreneurial aspirations materialized in 2019 when they encountered plantable stationery—products embedded with seeds that grow into plants after use. Although the concept was novel, they realised that long-term impact would require solutions tied to everyday utility.
That insight led to the creation of Rescript, with an initial focus on recycled copier paper. “Paper is used daily across sectors, yet a majority of it still ends up as waste,” said co-founder Ashutosh Ananth. “We saw an opportunity to intervene meaningfully.”
Industrial Innovation and Responsible Sourcing
Rescript operates through a contract manufacturing model, partnering with industrial mills to process packaging trimmings, textbook off-cuts, and used notebooks into pulp. The resulting paper is unbleached, giving it a natural off-white tone—a deliberate move to avoid chemical agents.
To address quality issues traditionally associated with recycled paper, Rescript developed a proprietary formulation that optimizes the paper-to-water ratio. This ensures that the final product is smooth, durable, and compatible with modern printing equipment. Each batch undergoes rigorous testing for fibre strength, GSM, moisture, and consistency before reaching the market.
The paper is then processed into notebooks, journals, pens, pencils, and corporate gifting kits at a manufacturing unit in Bengaluru. Rescript has strategically invested in key equipment while partnering with vendors for large-scale production.
Scaling with Purpose
Operating with a lean team of nine, Rescript has built a strong distribution network across B2B and B2C channels. Its clientele includes Wipro, JP Morgan, ICICI Prudential, and VMart, along with several educational institutions. Retail presence spans across Sapna Book House, Crossword, and soon, quick-commerce platforms like Swiggy and Blinkit.
The company recorded a revenue of ₹5 crore in FY 2024–25, marking consistent growth from ₹3.3 crore in FY 2023–24 and ₹1.5 crore the year prior. Its competitively priced products—copier paper (₹359–₹400), notebooks (₹50–₹85), journals (₹499)—offer consumers a sustainable alternative at no significant cost premium.
A notable differentiator is Rescript’s environmental impact reporting for corporate clients. At the end of each financial year, clients receive data on the number of trees saved, water conserved, and emissions reduced based on their stationery consumption.
Mission-Driven Branding and Recognition
Rescript’s marketing efforts are led by Pratik Dawda, its first hire and now Head of Digital Strategy. The brand has adopted a storytelling approach that emphasizes transparency and long-term environmental benefits over trend-based marketing.
“Social media became our voice, enabling us to educate, build trust, and create meaningful engagement,” says co-founder Naren Raj. The company’s recent appearance on Shark Tank India Season 4 has further boosted its visibility.
Conclusion
Recript stands as a case study in how grassroots innovation can scale into a nationally recognised brand while staying true to its values. By aligning environmental sustainability with functional design and corporate responsibility, Raj and Ananth have not only created a successful business but also a movement—encouraging individuals and institutions alike to rethink their relationship with something as fundamental as paper.