Project

The BioHybrid Device

Country

France

In the last decade, computing hardware has become ubiquitous, readily available, and affordable. However, despite being built from scarce resources, the lifespan of devices such as phones, computers, and controllers is surprisingly short, often ranging from only 1 to 5 years. This rapid obsolescence, combined with designs that discourage repair or reuse, has created a disposable culture where devices are discarded rather than maintained.

Vivien Roussel merges biological and digital manufacturing to envision a sustainable future. The BioHybrid Device is a video game controller made from biofabricated bacterial cellulose (SCOBY), with embedded buttons and LED lights. This innovative project challenges traditional technology lifecycles by growing interactive devices organically, promoting repairable, reusable, and biodegradable designs.

The BioHybrid Device, as a key part of SYMBIOCENE, exemplifies the potential for biologically grown devices to address environmental challenges, pushing the boundaries of sustainability in interactive technology. This hands-on approach serves as a practical example of how biofabrication can influence the future of device design, leading to a more symbiotic relationship between human innovation and the natural world.