Mycelium: Nature’s Livsing Network
Category: Apparel
Competitions: Vietnam
The Fluid Ecologies trend emerged because of environmental problems such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, which encourage people to live more harmoniously with nature. Fluid Ecologies is a new ecological thinking trend where ecosystems are no longer separated between nature, humans, and technology; instead, they are connected and adapt flexibly to each other. Fluid Ecologies introduces a new mindset where humans are no longer outsiders or superiors to nature, but an integral part of it. The intricate underground network of Mycelium serves as a profound lesson in connectivity: every element—humanity, technology and the environment—must interact and support one another to coexist. In modern design, this philosophy encourages us to move away from depletion and begin practicing symbiosis by mimicking natural ecosystems to create sustainable value. By dissolving the boundaries between the artificial and the natural, we not only protect the planet but also unlock endless creative inspiration, returning life to its inherent state of balance.Cow leather, when considered a by-product of the food industry, can offer several positive environmental impacts. Utilizing hides from meat production helps reduce organic waste, thereby minimizing pollution and improving resource efficiency. In addition, cow leather is highly durable and can be used for a long time without significant deterioration, which reduces the need for frequent consumption and new production—an important factor in lowering emissions and fashion waste. Moreover, leather can be repaired and reused multiple times, extending the product’s life cycle. Notably, under suitable conditions, genuine leather (especially vegetable-tanned leather) is biodegradable and does not generate microplastics like synthetic materials. Therefore, when produced and used responsibly, cow leather can be considered a relatively sustainable material in the fashion and materials industry.
