WHAT A WASTE “MAGIC FORMULA” PROJECT — FUNGI BIOCOMPOSITES

Alongside our community work, we are developing an ongoing innovation project within What A Waste — the Magic Formula, focused on fungi-based biocomposites.

Recycling clothing is essential. It reduces waste, saves water and energy, and lowers pollution. It also extends the life of garments through reuse and donation, making fashion more accessible and sustainable.

With recent European policy shifts, including the 2025 Waste Framework Directive, the need for new textile solutions has become even more urgent and relevant.

Our approach explores mycoremediation — the use of fungi to break down waste materials.

Certain types of fungi can naturally decompose organic fibers such as:

• cotton

• linen

• wool

They do this through a root-like network called mycelium, which releases enzymes that break down these materials.

The process is simple but powerful:

• textiles are shredded into smaller pieces

• placed in a controlled, moist environment

• combined with mushroom spores or mycelium

• over time, the fungi break down the fibers into organic matter

This material can then return safely to the environment or be transformed into new bio-based materials.

This process opens the door to creating fungi-based biocomposites — materials that are:

• biodegradable

• low-impact

• innovative alternatives to synthetic materials

Importantly, this method is also accessible:

• it does not require expensive industrial machinery

• it avoids harmful chemicals

• raw inputs are low-cost

• fungi can grow on waste itself, reducing resource needs further

The Magic Formula represents a shift from simply recycling — to regenerating materials through living systems.