In Sri Lanka, fisherfolk commonly use Styrofoam boxes to store fish. These boxes break easily, and when abandoned in the natural environment, they can break down and create microplastics harmful to marine life. As a solution to this pervasive issue, Team White Root, who was crowned the Regional and National Winners of the PLEASE Youth Hackathon, introduced their innovation – ‘Myco Box’. Myco Box offers a fully biodegradable fish storage container with a mycelium outer layer, a root-like structure found in fungus, while the inner layer combines aluminum foil and cardboard for durability and reuse. This innovative product offers a sustainable alternative to traditional Styrofoam packaging, aligning with principles of environmental sustainability and the circular economy.
Following their win at the PLEASE Hack in April 2025, team White Root has now begun the development of a pilot plant and laboratory. This will be operational from January 2026. The facility will enable production of Myco Boxes along with other customized packaging solutions and product samples. In addition, there is a plan to introduce a mycelium-based coffin to the Sri Lankan market in 2026, expanding the product range of sustainable, eco-friendly innovations.
The team Myco Box by White Root is represented by Mr. Chathura Madusanka and Ms. Paboda Manchanayaka. Mr. Chathura Madusanka is currently a PhD candidate at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka, conducting advanced research on mycelium-based materials. Ms. Paboda Manchanayaka is a recent graduate of the same university. Building on their research, the team has successfully transitioned from academic study to commercialization by introducing the Myco Box.
“Since 2022, I have been dedicated to pioneering research and introducing several innovative developments during my university years. Success in this competition enabled me to establish a laboratory and pilot plant for Mycobox while pursuing my PhD, creating a foundation for extensive research and product development”
Chathura Madusanka, Team White Root
” After joining this initiative in 2024, I have contributed significantly to the development of mycelium-based materials, particularly mycelium leather. After winning the competition, I was also able to receive a prestigious position at a leading Sri Lankan company, while continuing my collaborative research and innovation journey alongside Chathura.”
Paboda Manchanayaka, Team White Root
Beyond the Myco Box, the team has expanded their portfolio by developing several other biodegradable materials such as Myco Pack, Myco Plates, insulation boards, and peanut packing solutions. This year, they also achieved a significant milestone by creating mycelium-based leather, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to synthetic and natural leather.
The production process relies heavily on agricultural waste, and both collection and processing will create new economic benefits for rural communities. Their goal is to target niche markets with specific packaging solutions crafted from their versatile mycelium materials, further contributing to environmentally responsible innovation in Sri Lanka.
