Crafting New Materials from Sugarcane Waste

In a world striving for sustainable solutions, it's time to rethink how we use the resources we already have in abundance. Sugarcane is the largest crop in the world and offers a unique opportunity for transformation. After extracting its juice for sugar, ethanol or alcohol, one-third of the plant’s mass remains. This fibrous waste—known as bagasse—is often burned or left to rot, releasing greenhouse gasses and contributing to climate change. But what if we could turn this waste into valuable, lasting materials?

Join us in this 2-day workshop as we explore how to upcycle sugarcane bagasse—sourced directly from local Miami restaurants and juice stands—into new, unexpected materials and artistic creations. Through hands on experimentation, we will dive into the world of bio-based materials and discover how they can contribute to building a circular economy.

This event is made possible by The Puffin Foundation and Miami's Future of Cities Climate & Innovation HUB.

Free Street Parking is available on NE 59th St. just outside the entrance of the HUB.

Kickoff & Overview: We’ll start with an introduction to bio-based materials and bioplastics, breaking down terms like “biodegradable” and “compostable” and exploring their relevance in sustainable design.

Material Library Exploration: You’ll have a chance to explore the Bagaceira Project’s material library, looking at different renewable and biodegradable binders.

Hands-On Creation: We’ll guide you through making 2–3 different materials using sugarcane bagasse and natural binders. You’ll be mixing, molding, and experimenting with material recipes, from bioplastics to fiber composites.

Sculpture Assembly: We’ll work together to cut, shape, and assemble the materials from Day 1 into a collaborative sculpture.

Reflection & Discussion: We’ll close with a discussion on sustainable material innovation to share thoughts on material reuse and the role of a circular economy in building futures that we want to live in!

Throughout the workshop, you can explore the Bagaceira Project’s material library. Feel free to handle materials like bagasse-based bioplastics, fiberboards, particleboards, and mycelium composites. Each material will be labeled with descriptions of the natural binders used, offering a close look at sustainable material options.

Host or Publisher Bagaceira Project