Turning Whisky Waste into Sustainable Packaging through Scottish Innovation

Sustainable Packaging Innovation: Arbikie and Scottish Universities Lead Circular Economy Push

The University of Dundee, in collaboration with Edinburgh Napier University and Arbikie Distillery, has launched an innovative project called MycoPack, aimed at transforming whisky production waste into sustainable, compostable packaging. The initiative uses mycelium, the root structure of fungi, combined with distillery by-products like spent grain, to create a lightweight, durable, and fire-retardant material. This eco-friendly alternative to plastic supports a circular economy and aligns with Arbikie’s sustainability ethos. The project will run for 10 months, focusing on proof of concept, material testing, and mould design.

Arbikie Distillery, known for its climate-positive spirits and farm-to-bottle approach, plays a key role in the project. Distillery Manager Kirsty Black emphasized that sustainability is central to Arbikie’s mission, and the partnership with the universities reflects their commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. The University of Dundee, led by Dr. Wenbin Zhou, is contributing expertise in additive manufacturing, while Dr. Dongyang Sun at Edinburgh Napier University is pioneering the development of fungal composites from underused resources. Together, they aim to demonstrate how advanced manufacturing and sustainable design can turn waste into high-value, low-carbon products.

The project is funded by Scotland Beyond Net Zero, a coalition of Scottish universities working to accelerate the country’s transition to net zero. MycoPack is one of 11 projects selected for funding, each involving cross-sector collaboration to tackle sustainability challenges. The initiative not only showcases the potential of bio-based materials in packaging but also highlights the power of academic-industry partnerships in driving environmental innovation and supporting Scotland’s climate goals.

Links to press releases by:

University of Dundee: https://www.dundee.ac.uk/stories/dram-good-idea-turning-whisky-waste-sustainable-packaging

Napier University: https://www.napier.ac.uk/about-us/news/a-dram-good-idea-turning-whisky-waste-into-sustainable-packaging