Our project was an experimental enquiry, investigating the binding capacity of mycelia—the root-like growths of fungi—of two different strains of mushrooms: Golden Rishi and Blue Oyster. We aimed to understand its potential as a future material in bioremediation. This was tested by investigating the inoculation capabilities of the two mushroom strains with various bio-substrates that were either wasted products or could be locally sourced within multiple regional areas of the UK. Our project's aspirations are to provide additional experimental findings for the fungi’s binding capacities in creating bonded material, which could be used as green replacements in various industries.
By applying localized and wasted substrates that are easily obtainable from several geographic locations around the UK, we looked to create a project that utilizes natively and locally sourced materials, that could easily be replicated and used in regional projects on both local and national scales in the future. Moreover, it is also an ethical imperative to repurpose existing wasted biomaterials to develop environmentally-conscious future materials. These materials would not only help eliminate additional waste in landfills but also be biodegradable and leave a lower carbon footprint.
The outcomes of our project are a set of recipe cards that publish our successful experimental findings and suggest potential uses for these materials within society. Each recipe card was designed and created by a member of our collective group and features a unique potential usage that reflects each member's individual practice and area of interest.
