Greenova Pioneers Sustainable Plastic Alternatives and Health Products from Mesquite in Oman

Greenova Pioneers Sustainable Plastic Alternatives and Health Products from Mesquite in Oman

Written by: Atefa Saleh

Greenova, a student-led company at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Ibri, is pioneering green innovation in Oman by converting the invasive mesquite tree (Prosopis juliflora) into eco-friendly plastic alternatives and high-quality health products. This initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and promotes a circular economy.

Why It Matters

  • ✅ Tackles invasive species while reducing environmental burdens in Oman.
  • ✅ Supports sustainability and economic diversification.
  • ✅ Contributes to reducing plastic dependency with locally sourced, cost-effective alternatives.
  • ✅ Generates new economic and job opportunities for Omani youth.

Key Achievements

🌿 Plastic Alternative Innovation

Greenova has developed a plastic alternative from mesquite that is:

  • Stronger and unbreakable.
  • Cheaper to produce.
  • More heat-resistant.
  • Verified for efficiency by a reputable plant research lab in China, ensuring product credibility.

🧴 Health Product Development

Using extracts from mesquite leaves, Greenova produces:

  • 100% natural hair wash.
  • 100% natural body wash.
  • Natural soap products.

These products offer safe, competitive, and locally made alternatives for both domestic and export markets.

💼 Economic Impact

  • Captured 40% of Oman’s market share in alternative raw plastic material in a single sale.
  • Achieved 35% daily net profit, demonstrating economic viability.
  • Partnered with the Directorate of Agricultural, Fisheries, and Water Resources in Al Dhahirah to utilize mesquite waste, converting disposal costs into revenue.

🏆 Recognition and Entrepreneurship Milestones

  • Winner of first place in national entrepreneurship competitions (2025).
  • Finalist in Injaz Oman (2025).
  • Participant in “Start Of Science” Qatar (2024).
  • Incubated under the “Al Dhahirah Innovates” program by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
  • Active in Startup Weekend and hackathons, showcasing Greenova’s commitment to sustainable entrepreneurship.

Strategic Contributions to Oman Vision 2040

  • 🌱 Supports green economy initiatives by turning environmental challenges into opportunities.
  • 🌱 Creates high-value industries using local resources.
  • 🌱 Strengthens national sustainability and economic resilience.
  • 🌱 Encourages youth entrepreneurship and innovative job creation.

What Makes Greenova a Model Project

  • ✅ Transforms an environmental liability into a profitable economic resource.
  • ✅ Provides efficient, eco-friendly plastic alternatives.
  • ✅ Produces natural, high-quality health products aligned with global standards.
  • ✅ Demonstrates Omani youth-led innovation contributing to local and export markets.
  • ✅ Advances Oman’s shift toward a circular, green economy.
Greenova’s success story reflects how innovative thinking can transform invasive plants into valuable resources, supporting environmental sustainability while driving economic growth in Oman.

Ahmed Al Harthi

BSc in Software Engineering with Multimedia and Masters of Business Administration in Project Management. Ahmed works as an IT manager and content creator at Omanspire.

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