New Zealand startup BioFab attempts at creating a sustainable, non-toxic and locally grown alternative to polystyrene for packaging and construction.

They use agricultural waste and mycelium, the root component of a mushroom, to create a biomaterial that is compostable and contributes to the local circular economy.

Traditional packaging and building materials use toxic materials, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide during manufacturing and making up over 30% of global landfill waste.

BioFab’s goal is to significantly reduce the harm toxic materials are causing to the planet and encourage a world where waste streams regenerate, rather than destroy our natural environment.

Their aim is to create a biocompostable product that is 100% natural, functional and cost effective.

BioFab is creating packaging and building materials out of New Zealand-grown mushroom mycelium and wood chip (with hemp hurd feedstock). The biomaterial can be as light as polystyrene or as rigid and strong as plywood.

BioFab was able to develop their product thanks to their partnership with Ecovative Design, which patented the mycelium growth technology enabling companies to create naturally sourced materials.

Products are flame-resistant, hydrophobic, scalable and go through a rigorous testing process. Pakcaging made of BioFab's composite material can be customised according to product specifications, whilst maintaining their cost-effective quality.

The product is 100% compostable within 30 days, which makes it's disposal easy and environmentally friendly.