Fungi turn unrecyclable building waste into low-carbon insulation material

Researchers have developed a process using fungi to convert unrecyclable construction waste into a low-carbon insulation material. The method involves growing fungal mycelium on waste like gypsum board and timber offcuts, creating a composite that can be used for thermal insulation in buildings. This approach reduces landfill waste and cuts the carbon footprint of insulation production. The resulting material is biodegradable and has insulating properties comparable to conventional options. The research, covered by Engineers Ireland, highlights a circular economy solution for the construction sector. Scaling this process could help decarbonize building materials while addressing the waste problem from demolition and renovation projects.