Kenyan Startup MycoTile Revolutionizes Construction with Sustainable Mushroom-Based Materials
Kenyan startup MycoTile, founded by Ian Mwangola and Andrew Wainaina, is making waves in the construction industry. The company uses agricultural waste and mycelium to produce sustainable building materials, addressing Kenya's housing deficit and supporting the country's decarbonization efforts.
MycoTile's journey began when founder Mtamu Kililo learned mushroom farming in Rwanda. He started his research in his kitchen, eventually developing a process to turn agricultural waste into mycelium-based panels. These panels are biodegradable and more sustainable than traditional building materials.
Kenya faces a severe housing shortage, with at least 2 million units needed in Nairobi alone. Many residents live in informal settlements. MycoTile's innovative solution not only addresses this issue but also supports Kenya's national plan for decarbonizing construction and building. The company's panels cost about two-thirds of standard materials, reducing housing costs by a third. MycoTile produces approximately 3,000 square meters of these materials every month, using a large mushroom farm near Nairobi dedicated to building materials, not food.
Architect and sustainability expert Nickson Otieno endorses MycoTile's products. He recognizes construction as a significant emitter and supports sustainable alternatives like MycoTile's mycelium-based panels.
MycoTile's innovative use of mycelium and agricultural waste offers a sustainable and affordable solution to Kenya's housing deficit. With government support and expert endorsement, the company is poised to make a significant impact on Kenya's construction industry and decarbonization efforts.
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