This Wood Alternative is Made from Rice Hulls | ACRE

FDT Bureau

The global quest for wood alternatives has intensified, driven by a collective desire to preserve natural resources and protect animal habitats. While authentic wood remains indispensable for various applications, its excessive consumption is rapidly depleting vital landscapes. In response to this pressing issue, Modern Mill embarked on a mission to develop a sustainable, 100 per cent tree-free product with versatile applications. Know more about it on FURNITURE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (FDT).

Enter ACRE, the company’s flagship product, poised to revolutionize the construction industry by offering a viable alternative to rampant deforestation. ACRE is ingeniously sourced from upcycled rice hulls, diverting agricultural waste from landfills and transforming it into a natural building material. Through an innovative process, ACRE closely resembles wood in appearance and functionality, offering a sustainable solution without compromising performance.

Not content with merely recycling natural materials, ACRE is manufactured in a zero-waste facility in Mississippi, exemplifying the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The versatility of ACRE is evident in its myriad applications, including flooring, decking, siding, shiplap, and more. Moreover, ACRE products boast impressive environmental credentials, being phenol, formaldehyde and adhesive-free. With its water-repellent properties and resistance to weather and pests, ACRE offers a sustainable option for decking, flooring, porch furniture, and other surfaces, guaranteeing longevity and durability.

The adaptability of ACRE extends to both indoor and outdoor use, allowing for seamless integration into various environments. Its compatibility with paint or stain further enhances its versatility, as evidenced by its recent use as a dynamic backdrop at the Heineken for a greener bar exhibit during a Formula 1 event in Florida. Modern Mill’s dedication to tree conservation is evident in its mission, with each pallet of ACRE saving an acre of tropical rainforest or a tree equivalent in softwoods like southern yellow pine. To date, ACRE has reportedly conserved the equivalent of 44,000 acres of tropical rainforest or 13,000 softwood trees, underscoring its significant impact on environmental preservation and sustainable construction practices.

Image credit: Modern Mill (for representational purpose only)