Research project Industrial waste streams as sustainable alternatives to peat in mushroom cultivation
This project addresses two major environmental challenges for Sweden and the EU: the reduction of peat extraction and the accumulation of sludge waste at pulp and paper mills. The goal is to diminish the use of peat for casings in mushroom production and find alternatives for critical peat-dependent species like the common button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus.
Project description
The multidisciplinary project is dedicated to repurpose abundant sludge wastes from paper mills to promote sustainable, peat-free mushroom farming and contribute to Sweden's circular bioeconomy. The research aims to develop sludge blends that mimic peat’s properties, investigate microbial interactions in the sludge, and assess its effect on mushroom growth, safety, and quality.
Project members
Project managers
Ulrike Schimpf
Researcher
Department of Chemistry
Members
Mika Sipponen
Assistant Professor
Department of Chemistry
