Mycelium Lab

projects

May 10

© 2023 Bioregion Institute. T. versicolor culture. — *© 2023 Bioregion Institute. T. versicolor* culture.

Mycelium is the root-like structure of fungi, which is made up of a network of hyphae that extend and branch out to form a complex and interconnected system. The individual hyphae are very thin, often only a few microns in diameter, and are capable of growing rapidly in search of food and other resources.

The role of mycelium in the ecosystem is critical, as it helps to break down organic matter, release nutrients back into the soil, and maintain soil health. Mycelium can also play a key role in carbon sequestration, helping to capture and store carbon dioxide in the soil, which can help to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Mycelium ability to grow on agricultural waste and its biodegradability make it an ideal material for creating products that are both functional and environmentally friendly. Its applications could include biodegradable packaging, building materials or alternative leather.

At Bioregion Institute, we believe that (alive) mycelium-based building materials are a promising alternative to traditional building materials. They are eco-friendly, lightweight, durable, self-healing and have excellent insulation properties.

We have therefore initiated a mycelium culture of local fungi species to explore mycelium-based materials from the Norwegian Vestland county.