Squeeze the orange
description
Squeeze The Orange is a research and design project focused on transforming food waste into innovative biomaterials and compostable bioleather. Through experimentation with orange peel residues and natural fibres, the project explores new ways of understanding waste as a valuable resource within circular design systems. One of its most representative outcomes was the development of a biodegradable trench coat made from orange waste. The piece is exhibited at Matter Matters and Designing with the World at Disseny Hub Barcelona (2025-2028), highlighting the potential of biomaterials to connect sustainability, craftsmanship, material innovation, and cultural storytelling. Squeeze The Orange was awarded of the STARTS Prize EU (2021), selected as a finalist in S4Fashion EU (2022) and Foodture Barcelona (2023).
sensorial qualities
The incorporation of wool provides thermal insulation and warmth, while the orange residues contribute a subtle citrus aroma and natural compounds, known for its antibacterial and aromatic properties.
what problem it solves
The project addresses the environmental impact generated by food waste and petroleum- based materials by proposing regenerative and biodegradable alternatives. Squeeze The Orange reimagines organic waste streams as raw materials for design and material experimentation, contributing to waste reduction, circular economy practices, and more sustainable production models within fashion and product design.
interesting properties
The biomaterial developed by Squeeze The Orange combines circular design with functional and sensory qualities. Made from orange peel waste and natural fibres such as wool, the material is biodegradable, compostable, and partially water-resistant thanks to the natural oils.
structure
Irregular plastic structure that shows the pressence of some scattered natural fibers, being those wool fibers.