About this project
Mycelium Innovation transforms palm tree agricultural waste into 100% compostable packaging using mycelium, replacing plastic and reducing pollution. After use, the packaging can be planted to grow microgreens—turning waste into food. Our patented, low-cost, low-energy process supports multiple SDGs, including SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 8 (Decent Work), and SDG 9 (Industry & Innovation). With 4 active B2B clients, 12 on our waitlist, and support from UNICEF and TotalEnergies, we aim to scale production within 6–9 months and expand our impact across North Africa.
Goals and Objectives
Mycelium Innovation aims to reduce plastic pollution and palm waste burning by producing compostable packaging from mycelium and palm tree sawdust. Our goals are to scale production, create green jobs, and promote a circular economy. The main beneficiaries are youth and women in Tunisia, chosen for their high unemployment and potential to lead the green transition. They benefit through training and job opportunities in sustainable production. Eco-conscious businesses also benefit from affordable, local, and biodegradable packaging. The project is financially sustainable through B2B sales and can be scaled across regions with similar waste streams. Our low-cost, low-energy model, built with in-house machines, makes replication feasible, ensuring long-term impact beyond the project’s duration.
Expected result
By the end of the project, we aim to produce 5,000 compostable packaging units within 6 months, replacing approximately 250 kg of plastic. We will upcycle at least 1 ton of palm waste, preventing harmful emissions from open-air burning and reducing an estimated 1.8 tons of CO₂. The project will create 5 new green jobs, focusing on youth and women, and all team members will receive training on sustainable production. We also plan to serve 10 active B2B clients, fulfilling pending orders and validating market demand. Additionally, we will reduce the cost of production per unit by 30% through improved processes and better equipment. These results are specific, measurable, achievable, and time-bound, and we will track them using internal monitoring tools, client feedback, production records, and carbon reduction estimates.
Partners
About me / organisation
Omar
Omar Bentaleb, 28 years old, is the co-founder of Mycelium Innovation and leads the project. He is an electromechanical engineer with hands-on experience in machine building and biomaterials. Omar developed the first mycelium packaging in North Africa using palm tree sawdust and has secured funding from UNICEF and TotalEnergies. He oversees product development, production, and partnerships, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and local job creation.
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