Researchers have invented a new kind of plastic, one that’s alive. Made from the root structure of mushrooms called mycelium, this eco-friendly material is not only biodegradable but also regenerative. Unlike traditional plastic, which can take hundreds of years to decompose, mycelium-based plastic naturally breaks down within a few weeks, leaving no harmful residue behind.

The innovation lies in how the scientists engineered the material to remain dormant until activated. This means it can be stored and used like normal packaging but still has the potential to regenerate or decompose once exposed to the right environment. This living plastic has applications in packaging, construction, fashion, and even electronics.

It’s a breakthrough that aligns with growing environmental concerns, especially around plastic pollution. By tapping into the self-healing, durable, and sustainable nature of fungi, researchers are not just reducing waste they’re building a blueprint for a circular economy.