BIOVERS
bio-transformation of waste
Biovers buttons are created by a bio-transformation system that gives a new identity to waste through biological processes, bacteria, and living organisms. It uses artificial and organic waste to create buttons or other essential products, introduces recycled materials into new markets, and helps reduce natural resources extraction.
I am a memger of community biolab, where I am progressing research.
WHY
I wanted to create a recycling system that involves as many waste materials as possible to create quality products. I extracted the terpenic solvent from citrus waste that can reduce the volume of the polystyrene without breaking the polymer chains. Dissolution with terpenic solvents is an efficient and cheap alternative that works at room temperature; Cyanobacterias are also able to produce this type of terpenes. The organic solvent can be regenerated and used again. The process impacts only Polystyrene, so we can filter the impurities to achieve a pure substance even from contaminated waste. After I changed the polymer to the liquid state I created 3 different products, engaging other waste-based additives. Solid composite material for buttons, fibers made with the method of rotary spinning, and waterproof coating.After the use phase, the products can be digested by bacterias from the mealworms digestive system, closing the loop in the material lifecycle.
FUTURE PLANS
I've produced 400 buttons which are now tested in the new sustainable fashion collection. Currently, I am simultaneously exploring new fields of application for polystyrene waste like nano-fibers made with the method of rotary spinning or a waterproof coating. In the future, I would like to create bio-recycling workshops that collaborate with local designers, manufacturers, and communities to prove that products can be made locally from waste without compromising quality. I would like to create the line of the design products that are created from waste, but are not compromising quality. Introducing new nature-inspired closed-loop systems that might be applied everywhere will help improve responsible production and consumption.
HOW IT IS DIFFERENT
In nature, everything has its place, and different organisms rely on each other. If we introduce innovative biological systems, things like recycling can be relatively easy and straightforward. Successful recycling depends on a few aspects. One of them is Matchmaking. Who wants it? Waste is just material without identity. I've created a nature-inspired recycling method and applied it to the commodity item-like buttons. This everyday item, together with other accessories, hangers, and labels, is overlooked as part of the waste generated by the fashion industry. If we make these elements out of waste materials, we can reduce the environmental impact of fashion. Currently, I am testing new fields of application for polystyrene waste like fibers or a waterproof coating. Introducing new nature-inspired closed-loop systems that might be applied everywhere will help improve responsible production and consumption.
