Let's celebrate mushrooms 🍄 Mycelium is the network of threads from which mushrooms grow. Its role in the natural world is far greater than it sounds. This root-like network balances ecosystems and allows plants to thrive, and it predates humans by millions of years. We are only just beginning to tap into Mycelium’s potential in a variety of applications beyond its natural environment. One of these is a leather alternative. In 2021, @mycoworks partnered with @hermes to make the first object out of a fine mycelium leather alternative. Later that year, @stellamccartney partnered with biofabrication company, @boltthreads on two ready-to-wear garments. In May this year, McCartney released their first commercial mushroom leather handbag. The mock-leather market, which was valued at $33.7 billion in 2021 is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 8% until 2030. (Source: Bloomberg UK, 2022) So, what makes this material so desirable to ethically minded consumers? Described by Bloomberg in a recent article as ‘the most viable vegan alternative to cowhide,’ Mycelium derives from an infinitely renewable, natural resource and it's completely biodegradable and compostable at the end of its life. Instead of needing acres of land and tonnes of grain to raise cattle, mushroom leather is created by cultivating large mats of fungus that feed from beet sugar, molasses or other industrial by-products like sawdust. However, mushroom leather alternative is still in its infancy and there are aspects to consider regarding its durability. Whilst many leather alternatives are coated with a fossil fuel based strengthening agent, mushroom leather from companies like MycoWorks is left uncoated. This can affect its ability to resist water, making it vulnerable to mould and humidity. There are also concerns about its biodegradability being too rapid. All in all, we see a bright and hopeful future for mushroom leather alternatives. What do you think? Stay tuned over the coming weeks as we introduce a new mycelium start up 💚 📸 Image via @pinterest . . . #sustainableleather #biomaterials #mushroomleather #mycelium #leatheralternative #newfabrics #fashioninnovation