GX Group, a Netherlands-based fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) and optical networking gear maker, has extended what it calls its ‘Ecoverse’ initiative aimed at manufacturing Wi-Fi routers and GPON optical network terminals (ONTs) with recycled and biodegradable materials. In this case it plans Wi-Fi routers made from Khadi and bamboo, with, it seems, an eye to the Indian market.
Indeed the plan for GX's Ecoverse Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7 routers to be integrated with Khadi, a material constructed using cotton, silk, and wool, was reported in India’s Economic Times.
The news service quoted Sambit Swain, director global sales, GX Group, as saying: “As India advances its fibre network, we must balance growth with environmental responsibility. GX not only promotes environment-friendly and sustainable products but also looks at aspects which would make the local economy sustainable, grow and become innovative.”
India is close to becoming the second-largest fibre broadband market in the world, with 110 million active fibre lines by 2030. However, that has brought worries about the environmental impact of telecom infrastructure. Hence, it seems, the GX Group push to make products using Khadi and bamboo.
This isn’t a new idea. In late 2024 GX Group said it aimed to incorporate 60% reusable material in its products within the next two years, an initiative that, it added, aligns with India's climate goals and global sustainability trends.
The company has a manufacturing facility in Manesar in the northern state of Haryana, which is said to be a key driver of the Ecoverse initiative. Additionally, GX Group is expanding its operations, with a new manufacturing facility in Chennai to cater to both domestic and international markets.
