Almost two years ago, Robi Hurschler (ski jump manager) Engelberg and Sepp Häcki (Kernser Edelpilze GmbH / Kernser mycotec GmbH) happened to mention the snow loss at Snowfarming Engelberg in a private conversation. Robi told Sepp that snow farming resulted in a loss of around 30 to 40% of the snow originally produced over the summer.

Sepp Häcki couldn't stop thinking about the conversation and pondered the significant snow loss at the snow farm in Engelberg at home. The start-up company Mycostrat, in which Kernser mycotec GmbH has a stake, is involved in the development of ecological building materials. Sepp Häcki couldn't shake the idea that this topic could be a new project for Mycostrat.

After a few more discussions between Robi Hurschler and Sepp Häcki, it was decided to bring everyone involved on board. This was the starting signal for discussions about the technology and feasibility of a possible alternative cover for the snow farm facility.

What are the advantages of covering with fungal mycelium composite?

Mycelium composite is a 100% natural product that functions as a sustainable, bio-based material. The fungal mycelium grows on organic substrates such as sawdust or agricultural waste. The mycelium grows through the substrate to form a solid, moldable material with properties such as good thermal insulation, water repellency, fire resistance, and biodegradability. It can be used for a variety of applications, from materials to building components.

At the end of its life, the composite can be composted or burned as an energy source.

In spring 2025, Kernser Edelpilze GmbH, representing Snowfarming Engelberg, submitted an application to REV Sarneraatal for financial support for the development of an effective and environmentally friendly cover for the snow depot in Engelberg. The project impressed the jury and is now being funded by the NRP (New Regional Policy).

On June 23, 2025, installation of the top layer with the mycelium composite began. The mycelium composite was produced by Kernser Edelpilze GmbH in Kerns. The mycelium used comes from a species of fungus native to the Alpine regions, the “resinous lacquer polypore.” Special thanks go to Schallberger Landmaschinen in Oberdorf, which provided us with the tractor and feed mixer wagon for transport from Kerns to Engelberg.

In Engelberg, the composite was spread over a test area of around 100 m². From then on, it was a matter of waiting to see how the snow would behave under the different coverings.

We were amazed at how quickly the mycelium grew through the snow, forming a compact insulating layer within three days.

In the following weeks and months, it became increasingly clear how positive the insulating value of the mycelium composite was.

The new environmentally friendly cover significantly reduced snow loss compared to conventional methods. Mycostrat GmbH is already making further plans; next year, the side walls will also be constructed using a mycelium composite panel. This will provide even better insulation for the snow on all sides.