Mush2biom: From Edible Mushrooms To Sustainable Biomaterials

The use of biomaterials in the building and construction industry has evolved from a concept to a tangible reality. Over the years, mycelium-based composites (MBC) have been under extensive investigation by researchers in the building and construction industry towards enhanced sustainability through nature-based solutions. Research endeavors have been undertaken to showcase the potential of repurposing waste into biomaterials with a low carbon footprint. This paper introduces a novel and innovative approach to producing edible mushrooms and transforming the waste resulting by the cultivation of edible mushrooms into MBCs, generating products both for the agrifood sector and construction industry as an outcome. The prospect of cultivating edible mushrooms and developing MBCs presents an opportunity for a circular economy framework minimizing waste and optimizing resources. By repurposing cultivation substrates into sustainable building materials, a zero-waste solution can be achieved, promoting sustainability in manufacturing processes.