The root system of mushrooms, mycelium, is now being used to create alternatives for plastic packaging and leather.
What Can It Replace?
Ecovative has created a mushroom-based packaging material that can be used to replace polystyrene foam, and companies like Dell and IKEA have reportedly adopted it. Another brand, Mylo, has developed products using mycelium leather, which is used by big names like Stella McCartney and Adidas. Bolt Threads stated that Mylo used significantly fewer resources than animal leather while producing less carbon footprint.
Is It Truly Plastic-Free?
Not necessarily, as finishes may involve plastics. Ecovative claims that mycelium leather products do not contain plastic and polyurethane materials. Plastic waste is an issue, which adds to pollution in even the most contaminated rivers.
What Holds It Back?
The two biggest barriers are cost and scale. According to Bolt Threads, the results of their initial assessment of environmental footprint are still unverified.
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