Invasive plants, such as the notorious Rhododendron ponticum, have left an indelible mark on the UK since 1760. This invasive species not only out-competes native flora, but also rapidly expands underground, posing a significant challenge for eradication efforts by the UK government.

Despite substantial investments in physical and chemical treatments, the relentless spread of Rhododendron ponticum proves difficult to curb without complete elimination. The associated costs in terms of both finances and manpower are prohibitive, prompting a need for innovative solutions.

In response to this ecological challenge, this project aims to shift the paradigm of invasive plant management. Rather than expending resources on eradication, transformative manufacturing techniques have been explored to repurpose Rhododendron ponticum into valuable materials for the built environment. The goal is to generate value from this invasive plant while mitigating its harmful impact on the UK’s ecosystems.