From Books to Fruiting Bodies: Investigating Cellulose Decomposition, Compost Supplementation, and Mushroom Production Using Recycled Paper Substrates

This 2026 undergraduate research proposal by Peter McGrath investigates the potential of recycled book paper as a sustainable growing substrate for wood-decaying fungi, particularly oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus). The study explores whether fungi can use cellulose-rich book pages as a carbon source and whether adding mature compost improves mycelial growth, colonization speed, and mushroom production. The proposed experiment compares different combinations of recycled paper, hardwood sawdust, and compost to evaluate fungal growth, biological efficiency, and contamination rates. Supported by existing scientific literature, this research examines opportunities to transform discarded books into useful biological materials through fungal decomposition. The project contributes to research interests in mycology, environmental sustainability, waste recycling, and circular agriculture. It is an experimental proposal; original results have not yet been collected.