The California Carpet Stewardship Program has awarded three grants totaling $142,000 to advance innovative recycling and reuse of post-consumer carpet (PCC). The projects represent cutting-edge approaches to addressing carpet waste through bioremediation and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Two projects received funding under Cycle 3 of CARE's Innovation & Design grants. Brightworks Sustainability will conduct a Circularity Optimization Study, engaging supply chain stakeholders to develop a comprehensive "Design for Circularity" guide. Meanwhile, Tarkett, partnering with Georgia Tech and Mycocycle, will test a groundbreaking mycelium-based bioremediation process capable of breaking down 100% of PCC, including traditionally non-recyclable components like backings and adhesives.

Under Cycle 6B of CARE's Product Testing program, River AI Design Corp received funding to develop and certify architectural products made from recycled PCC using large-scale 3D printing. The Los Angeles-based project will transform California-sourced carpet into durable planters, acoustic panels, and outdoor furniture.

These initiatives demonstrate CARE's commitment to fostering scalable solutions that increase carpet recycling rates, expand end-market demand, and maintain valuable materials in circulation.