The threadlike network of fungi is combined local raw materials to create biopolymers. Photo: Shutterstock

The threadlike network of fungi is combined local raw materials to create biopolymers. Photo: Shutterstock

Design Friends Luxembourg for its conference on 18 May has invited Eric Klarenbeek of Studio Klarenbeek & Dros to talk about its approach to leaving plastics behind.

With the impact of climate change and pollution being felt in the daily life of many, the European Union has been implementing directives to lower its carbon footprint. As a result of this, plastics will be reduced. is already challenging the ways in which businesses and consumers use plastics. Some projects, however, go further: with the help of eco-technological solutions, carbon negative items can also be produced. 

Aiming to replace fossil plastics with something more sustainable, Klarenbeek & Duos convert seaweeds which have captured CO2 and nitrogen throughout their lifespan into eco-compatible biopolymers. Aside from seaweed, biopolymers--not to be mistaken for synthetic biodegradable polymers--can be made from many different types of natural materials like the infinite natural resource mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. Biopolymers have another notable feature, namely that they can absorb and store CO2. 

Klarenbeek’s Netherlands-based studio also works with mycelium and is working since 2011 on developing 3D-printing living mycelium. The latter can then be used to create stable and renewable materials such as that can replace synthetic plastics.

During his talk at Mudam on 18 May, Klarenbeek will discuss his studio’s research and work and give more insight into the world of design research.

This event will be hosted by Luxembourg cultural association Design Friends which has for the past 13 years organised nearly 60 such talks for those interested in this field.

Entrance to Studio Klarenbeek and Dros’s talk is free. The event will be held in English.

More information on the event