ABSTRACT
In Aotearoa New Zealand, the construction sector contributes significantly to national greenhouse gas emissions and landfill waste, with a heavy reliance on imported materials. Mycelium biocomposites (MBCs) offer a sustainable alternative, being low-carbon, biodegradable, and utilizing agricultural waste. However, MBCs remain a niche product in New Zealand’s construction industry. This study applies the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) framework to explore the key levers for MBC adoption and identify actors that can drive their transition to mainstream use. Through 21 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders from various sectors, the research identifies strategic networks, market entry strategies, education, innovation mobilization, and policy changes as critical enablers. The findings suggest that the successful integration of MBCs requires cross-sector collaboration and supportive government policies. This research offers insights into scaling MBCs and other bio-based materials, contributing to a low-carbon built environment in New Zealand and beyond.
