Harnessing Mycelium: The Future of Sustainable Materials
Fungi have long been environmental recyclers, with mycelium emerging as a powerful solution for remediating heavy hydrocarbons, known carcinogens. As highlighted in a recent conference, mycelium flourishes on construction waste, converting it into a thriving ecosystem that signals a healthy environment for fungi.
Mycocycle’s Mission with Tarkett
Tarkett, in collaboration with Mycocycle, is set to explore the implications of mycelium across various flooring types through its ReStart recycling program. This initiative is paving the way for incorporating mycelium by-products into new flooring products, marking a shift towards sustainable construction.
In a practical demonstration of this concept, Tarkett partnered with global design firm Gensler during the renovation of its Washington, D.C. office. Here, old broadloom carpet was effectively processed through ReStart and Mycocycle, successfully achieving a remarkable 90% waste diversion target—ensuring zero flooring ended up in landfills.
Can Mushrooms Combat Plastic Waste?
Among the most promising applications of mycelium is its role as a sustainable alternative to plastics and Styrofoam packaging. Innovative companies like Ecovative are already manufacturing compostable mycelium packaging that degrades within 45 days. Similarly, MycoWorks is developing leather-like materials from mycelium to replace plastic-based vegan leather in fashion and furniture industries. Notably, MycoWorks’ Reishi, showcased at ICFF 2025, has gained recognition in architectural projects, including the Populus Hotel in Denver and Ligne Roset’s upscale seating designs.
Elise McMahon, a circular product designer at LikeMindedObjects, is actively experimenting with mycelium following her role in Ecovative’s 2024 Forager Design Fellowship. This program aims to empower designers with access to mycelium materials for creating innovative and sustainable designs.
Reishi: A Durable Leather Alternative
Developed by MycoWorks, Reishi is a novel leather alternative cultivated in South Carolina and finished in Spain. Known for its natural grain and durability, it is used in various applications such as handbags, footwear, furniture, and automotive interiors. This material offers a plastic-free, water-resistant luxury that aligns with the design sector’s increasing demand for sustainable, high-performance materials. At ICFF 2025, Reishi made a significant impression by being featured in both furniture upholstery and interior panels.
“I admire Ecovative for targeting some of the most harmful petroleum-based materials while offering alternative leathers,” says McMahon. During her fellowship, she focused on using springy mycelium-based foam as a substitute for traditional upholstery materials, creating two seating pieces and innovative lighting prototypes.
The Path Forward for Mycelium-Based Materials
While mycelium may not solve all plastic problems, it presents intriguing possibilities—especially in packaging, insulation, and surface materials. However, ongoing research is critical for wider acceptance in performance-driven sectors.
Certain mycelium products are becoming increasingly accessible in markets, particularly in acoustic solutions. Companies like Mogu and Impact Acoustic are at the forefront, designing mycelium-based wall panels. Mogu’s recent collaboration with Habitat Matter led to an ICFF Editors Award recognition for innovative acoustic materials.
Serena Camere, Mogu’s business director, notes the challenges of scaling mycelium production, stating, “Understanding the complexities of nature—like imperfections and cooperation with other organisms—is essential.”
A Call to Action: Engaging with Mycelium
Transitioning mycelium projects from research and development to actual products poses significant hurdles. Chris Magwood from okom wrks acknowledges, “Very few building products are in production for builders today,” illustrating the persistent difficulties faced by many in this sector.
Elise McMahon’s enthusiasm for mycelium remains steadfast as she displays her lighting designs, expressing a desire to further engage with this captivating material. “The stunning visual qualities of mycelium, especially the spotty leather alternative, inspire my creative process,” McMahon states.
The Broader Implications of Mycelium
Although the allure of fungi often veers into romanticized territory, the practical applications of mycelium in sustainable material design offer promising solutions for pressing global challenges. As the building industry grapples with pressing issues such as carbon emissions and material toxicity, mycelium presents a notable counterbalance through its inherent qualities of symbiosis and sustainability.
Thus, the key question becomes: How can we slow down to better accommodate these living collaborators? Listening to the needs of fungi, as Camere suggests, could unlock new potential in sustainable design.
In conclusion, mycelium embodies both innovation and hope within sustainable architecture and design. To explore further about mycelium’s integration into architecture, check out this insightful article on the potential of mycelium and sustainable materials here.
For more fascinating insights into modern living spaces and sustainable design practices, visit ChatbiHouse’s blog.
