Engineer Md. Mahbub Sumon
Founding Member, Bonkagoj
Engineer Md. Mahbub Sumon is a Bangladeshi innovator and clean energy expert, recognized for his pioneering work in solar and wind energy, as well as sustainable materials. As the Managing Director of Shalbrikkho, a Narayanganj-based green startup, he has developed groundbreaking eco-friendly products like Polka Bioplastic, Polka Flex Banner, and Bonkagoj a unique plantable paper made from recycled waste embedded with seeds.
Sumon’s mission is to combat plastic pollution and drive environmental sustainability across Bangladesh. His creative use of upcycled materials, such as turning donated saris into reusable export-quality bags, has drawn international attention and demand. Through Shalbrikkho, Sumon blends renewable energy expertise with innovative product development, leading the way toward a cleaner, more resilient future for the country.
Ekramunnesa Champa
Founding Member, Bonkagoj
Ekramunnesa Champa is a Bangladeshi environmental innovator and social entrepreneur. She serves as the Chairman of Shalbrikkho. Shalbrikkho focuses on sustainable solutions, including biodegradable materials like Polka Bioplastic and Polka Flex Banner, and eco-friendly paper alternatives such as Bonkagoj. Their initiatives aim to reduce plastic pollution and promote environmental resilience across Bangladesh.
In response to flooding in Bangladesh, Shalbrikkho, under the leadership Ekramunnesa Champa, constructed boats using bamboo and repurposed plastic drums, and developed floating toilets to aid affected communities. Ekramunnesa Champa’s contributions to environmental sustainability have been recognized with the Green Innovation of the Year award at the Environment Innovation Awards 2024.