In an effort to move towards sustainable design, the Chinese studio NONGZAO has launched the "CONSUMER" project, which reimagines everyday plastic objects by transforming them into eco-friendly items using mycelium—a biodegradable material derived from fungi. By repurposing common plastic items such as monobloc chairs, plastic stools, and lighting fixtures as molds, NONGZAO's innovative approach challenges the uniformity of mass-produced goods and introduces a diverse, organic alternative.
Turning Waste into Resources
The environmental toll of plastic is immense, with over 430 million tons produced annually, much of which quickly becomes waste. In places like Guangdong, China, ubiquitous red plastic furniture has become a symbol of industrialization, yet it also contributes to a visually monotonous landscape and ecological harm. Addressing these issues, NONGZAO's CONSUMER project uses agricultural waste—such as coffee grounds and rice husks—as a growth medium for mycelium. This mycelium, in turn, transforms ordinary plastic objects into unique, biodegradable items.
Coffee grounds, rich in cellulose and lignin, serve as an ideal substrate for mycelium growth. As the mycelium consumes this waste, it not only recycles valuable nutrients but also absorbs and stores carbon, contributing to the reduction of atmospheric CO2 levels. This process adheres to the principles of a closed-loop ecosystem, where waste is continuously repurposed into new, valuable products.
Breaking the Mold of Mass Production
NONGZAO's use of mycelium in the CONSUMER project represents a significant departure from the industrial homogenization that defines much of modern production. Each mycelium-infused item is unique, shaped by the natural growth patterns of the fungus rather than by rigid industrial molds. This approach not only adds aesthetic diversity to everyday objects but also integrates green ecology into product design.
By leveraging the natural processes of mycelium growth, NONGZAO offers a powerful statement against the environmental impact of plastic while promoting sustainable practices. The CONSUMER project exemplifies how innovative design can address ecological challenges, turning the tide against plastic waste and fostering a new appreciation for biodegradable materials.
Project Details
Project Name: CONSUMER—Coffee Grounds Mycelium Practice
Designer: NONGZAO | @nongzao.official
Design Team: Gang Xv, Yatu Tan, Lili Liang, Zixin He
NONGZAO's work highlights the potential of mycelium as a transformative material in the fight against plastic pollution, demonstrating that sustainable design can be both practical and visually striking.