Based in Estonia, Myceen, a company specializing in mycelium-based building materials, has secured over €2 million in grants this year, marking a significant milestone in its development. This funding is set to support the company as it seeks to bring its carbon-negative materials to the market. In addition to the grants, Myceen is advancing a seed investment round of €1-1.5 million, which will aid in the company’s transition to a larger production facility.
The shift toward climate-neutral architecture
As Europe aims to meet its climate goals—reducing emissions by 55% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050—the construction industry faces increasing pressure to lower its environmental impact. Currently, about 75% of EU buildings are considered inefficient, and the EU has set a target to renovate 35 million homes by 2030 to improve energy efficiency.
Mycelium-based materials are emerging as a viable option in this context. These materials not only offer potential energy savings but also align with circular economy principles by converting industrial byproducts into building materials. Their application in insulation and other building components reflects a growing interest in sustainable construction solutions.
Expanding reach and recognition
Initially focused on the design sector, Myceen has broadened its scope to include building materials, with an emphasis on research and development for mass-scale applications. Over the past year, the company has shipped products to over 15 countries, including the United States and Singapore, and has received recognition for its product quality.
Petko Tashev, Co-Founder and Managing Director of The Home of Sustainable Things in London noted: “While Mycelium isn’t a novel material to us, Myceen’s design range is something to behold. Over the years, we have seen many designers attempting to tame this incredible, regenerative material and failing to do so. However, Myceen’s consistency, quality, and style not only set this range apart but have also elevated mycelium design to levels previously unimagined.”
Pilot factory and insulation test house
Myceen is preparing to expand its operations by moving into a pilot factory, where it will develop industrial production technology for its building materials. This expansion is intended to support the company’s efforts to commercialize mycelium-based products, with interest already shown by several house producers and resellers.
In an upcoming project, Myceen’s insulation materials will be tested in a pilot house, developed in collaboration with the Timber Architecture Research Center (PAKK). This test, scheduled for completion in autumn 2024, will compare the performance of mycelium insulation with conventional materials, providing data to inform further development and commercialization.
Looking ahead
As Myceen continues to develop its mycelium technology, the company is positioned to contribute to the ongoing efforts toward more sustainable building practices. With financial backing and plans for expanded production, Myceen is set to explore the potential of mycelium-based materials in the construction industry.
Read the orginal article: https://www.eu-startups.com/2024/08/tallin-based-myceen-secures-e2-million-to-expand-their-production-of-carbon-negative-materials/
