Super absorbent polymers (SAP) already play an essential role in everyday products—from cosmetics and portable toilets to pet sheets and sandbags for disaster relief. However, until now, petroleum based chemicals have been the base ingredient to these products which have harmful effects on our ecosystems.What if we could use 100% naturally derived products to fit these needs with minimal impact on the environment? Eco-Friendly Polymer (EF Polymer) could drive a transformative shift toward a more sustainable future.In this interview, we spoke with Ko Nakagawa, a specialist in polymer research and development with a strong background in both R&D and sales. Trusted by CEO Narayan and colleagues alike, Nakagawa shared insights into EF Polymer’s potential beyond agricultural applications.〈Ko Nakagawa, Specialist in Polymer Research and Development.〉Expanding EF Polymer Beyond AgricultureWhile EF Polymer is primarily marketed for agricultural applications, enhancing soil’s water and nutrient retention, its potential extends far beyond. Just as petroleum-based polymers find diverse uses across industries, EF Polymer could unlock new possibilities across a variety of fields.Here are some of the potential uses, focusing on those that are currently under development and review.Potential Use Cases for EF Polymer:CosmeticsSuitable for products requiring a smooth, cohesive texture, such as liquid foundations and lipsticks.Portable ToiletsIdeal for use in emergency relief situations and humanitarian missions.Disaster SandbagsHelps prevent the flow of soil and sand during flooding or landslides.Nursing Pads (Breast Pads)Provides a gentle, skin-friendly option for sensitive users.Dust SuppressantsEffective in preventing dust and dirt from dispersing into the air.Pet PadsProvides effective absorption and odor control for pet care.Sanitary ProductsOffers high absorbency for hygiene products like feminine hygiene pads.Disposable DiapersDelivers superior absorbency and comfort for baby care.Liquid Blood SolidifiersUseful for safe disposal of medical waste in healthcare settings.Disposable Heat PacksRetains heat effectively, useful for body warmers.Air FreshenersUsed as a gel base to retain fragrance over time.Paints and CoatingsAdds cohesion and adhesive properties to coatings.Textiles and FibersEnhances moisture retention and flexibility in fabrics.Face MasksContributes to moisture retention and comfort in mask applications.Wound DressingsProvides gentle, absorbent care for wound protection.It may come as a surprise to many that polymers have such a wide range of applications. Thanks to their ability to absorb significant amounts of water, they are commonly used in hygiene products. Additionally, their thickening properties make them valuable in cosmetics and paints, making polymers an essential part of everyday life.Organic polymers, made entirely from natural ingredients, offer a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based polymers. These eco-friendly and non-toxic materials are especially in demand for products that come into contact with the skin and those that carry a high environmental impact upon disposal.〈EF Polymer, designed to absorb water and expand〉Petroleum-based polymers, on the other hand, frequently utilize organometallic compounds in their creation. Even in small amounts, these substances can be toxic to humans and slowly degrade soil health and impact animal life, leading to broader ecological concerns.Nakagawa reflects: “In all my research on polymers, the focus has always been on petroleum-based materials, with no history of environmentally friendly organic polymers. Most chemists have always assumed that petroleum was the only viable starting material; few would think of using something like banana or orange peels. There's certainly a demand for sustainable options, but in Japan, where resources are abundant, the mental barrier around using anything other than petroleum remains strong. Narayan was the one who shattered this mindset. Even now, 99% of water-absorbent polymers are petroleum-based, making 100% organic EF Polymer nothing short of a breakthrough.”While studying at the Graduate School of Tsukuba University (majoring in organic synthetic chemistry), Nakagawa conducted research at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) (catalytic chemistry), and then worked for a foreign-affiliated chemical manufacturer (research, development and sales of cosmetics, adhesives, heat-conductive, insulating and conductive materials), before joining EF Polymer in December 2023. Currently, as a research and development specialist, he is in charge of market-in and product-out projects.〈Nakagawa is developing products for uses other than agriculture〉Even with a wealth of experience as a researcher and salesperson in a global chemical firm, Nakagawa found himself drawn to EF Polymer’s innovative technology, which demonstrated real potential to transform the industry.“My role in the company is to create products that clients and society want using EF Polymer. There is pressure involved in coordinating everything, from research to making proposals to customers and participating in technical meetings, but I am very excited by the fact that I am able to propose something that only this company can offer to the world.” Market expansion and growth forecastsNakagawa predicts that the market for organic polymers will grow to between 1 trillion and 5 trillion yen (approximately $6.8 billion to $34 billion) per year, in both Japan and overseas. While there are challenges regarding water absorption efficiency and production costs in comparison to petroleum-based polymers, concerns about dwindling petroleum supplies and the growing interest in environmental ethics are expected to drive significant demand growth in this market moving forward.Nakagawa remarks, “CEO Narayan is fond of saying, 'Mother Nature has a solution to every problem.' In the wake of the Industrial Revolution, humanity's production increases have often come at the expense of the planet. EF Polymer is a transformative solution that aims to replace petroleum-derived products with sustainable natural materials.”“Many of our collaborative partners and clients are eager to switch to more environmentally friendly products and focus on sustainable future practices. We also work with pride in our respective roles so that we can respond to those desires” says Nakagawa.Changing the basic composition of a product is often a complex task in an industry with deep-rooted traditions. While this may involve risks for the company, adopting a long-term perspective can pave the way for solutions to larger problems.The journey of organic polymers began with the trials and challenges encountered by Narayan Gurjar, an Indian researcher and CEO of EF Polymer, and has since extended to many farmers and businesses.〈EF Polymer is now being applied in agricultural settings〉“EF Polymer will continue to explore research opportunities for applications outside of agriculture, striving to enhance water-absorbing polymers to better serve people and the environment across various aspects of life. With an eye on expanding our business, we aim to secure Series B funding by 2025.”“We are also in talks with investors overseas (in the US and Europe). We are not just looking to raise funds, but to create a greater impact together with partners who can create synergy,” says Nakagawa.