We are creating biodegradable plant pots from locally recycled potato peels. Our plastic-free alternative eliminates the need for repotting, as the pots can be planted directly into the soil with the plant and naturally break down, enriching the soil with nutrients from the peels and promoting healthier growth. Unlike other biodegradable pots, ours use genuine local waste, reducing environmental impact and providing nutrients that support plant development. We are currently prototyping pots in a range of sizes, from 5 to 15 cm in diameter, with proportional heights between 6 and 18 cm. These dimensions cover the most commonly used sizes for seedlings, herbs, small houseplants, and young shrubs, suitable for both home gardening and professional growing.

Plastic dominates the horticulture industry, accounting for over 50% of the market. These plastics take centuries to degrade, breaking down into harmful nanoplastics that threaten plants, animals, and human health. Meanwhile, the potato industry generates massive amounts of organic waste, with potato peels alone accounting for 15–40% of production losses. These peels are not just waste; they are a nutrient-rich by-product with valuable compounds that can be recovered. By 2030, potato peel waste could reach 8,000 kilotons, generating around 5 million tonnes of CO₂. This makes them a promising resource to be repurposed into solutions that benefit both the economy and the environment. Upspud offers biodegradable plant pots made out of recycled local potato peel waste. This plastic-free alternative helps avoid repotting and allows pots to be directly planted with their plant into the ground, fostering better plant growth without any microplastics along the way.