How mushrooms could save the planet
The magic of mycelium: Mycelium is the part of a fungus that roots the mushroom to the ground.
Sturdy yet lightweight, fast to make and degrade: Mycelium’s threadlike tissue grows in tight networks, making it a light but strong material.
Uses other companies’ waste: Working with mushrooms is also beneficial because they thrive on waste.
It's moldable:As it grows in a mass of fiber branches the mycelium attaches itself to soil or whatever surface it is grown on.
MycoComposite, or mushroom packaging: Product design company Ecovative Design developed the mycelium-based material called Mushroom Packaging, or MycoComposite.
The process: Agricultural products like timber shavings, hemp, husk, oat hulls, and cotton burrs are combined with the mycelium.
IKEA got onboard with fungi packaging: The Swedish furniture retailer has committed to more sustainable product packaging and announced that they would be switching.
Breaking down plastic: In addition to replacing plastic, fungi might even be able to eat the existing waste.
Solving the landfill crisis: Other studies have shown that even common mushrooms like the edible Oyster and Split gill mushrooms can, over the course.
A leather alternative: Not many people would believe you if you told them your leather purse was made from mushrooms.