While researching on new alternative packaging possibilities, I came across a material, built from a growing mushroom – MycoComposite™ – developped by ecovative, an American producer of alternative materials. They grow materials made from agricultural byproducts and mushroom mycelium. Mycelium is a natural, self-assembling glue, digesting crop waste to produce cost-competitive and environmentally responsible materials that perform.
See what they have invented on their site…
Here is an excerpt:
At Ecovative, we believe there is a better way to feed the planet and reduce the amount of plastic used in consumer products. Our mission is to grow better materials that are compatible with Earth. Using our Mycelium Foundry, we are collaborating with companies to create alternative meat products, biodegradable packaging materials, animal-free leather and more.
Developed in 2007, Mushroom® Packaging is made from mycelium and the agricultural byproduct of hemp. It’s a high-performance packaging solution that’s cost-competitive with conventional foams, yet 100% home compostable.