The conventional use of plastic in the packaging industry created from petrochemicals is a huge issue across the world. Creating sustainable, biodegradable and natural packaging which can be used within the food, cosmetic, fashion and other industries will reduce single use plastics.

The conventional way textiles are produced and dyed releases very harmful chemicals into the environment and are one of the largest water consumers in the world. There is a huge push to replace polyester and nylon with sustainable fibres as these are both non-biodegradable and un-sustainable as well as creating natural dyes to replace conventional ones.

The conventional way that building materials, specifically concrete production, contributes hugely to the world’s CO2 emissions. There is a huge push to create these materials from sustainable products, largely mycelium.

The use of biomaterials within the medical industry helps to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions. This includes the use of metals, metal oxides, hydrogels, ceramics and composites for implants, drug delivery and to enhance functions of tissues and organs.

Materials can be designed for CO2 storage, capture and utilization which can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the formation of membranes, absorbents, catalysts and biological materials such as algae or biomass.