Fast fashion trends are accelerating the expansion of the textile industry and giving rise to a global environmental crisis. Only 15% of the 92 million tonnes of textile waste produced annually are recycled or repurposed. However, these methods are largely inefficient as they release harmful chemicals and produce carbon dioxide emission. To combat this, we have created a two-step system that uses E. coli as a chassis to produce enzymes that can efficiently degrade keratin and cellulose based mixed fabrics into its monomeric amino acid and sugar subunits, which are then used as a feedstock for the production of spider silk proteins. Functionally similar to native dragline spider silk from orb-weaver spiders, this value-added commodity is sought after in the fashion, military, aerospace, firefighting, and biomedical sectors. Through this process, our system promotes the renewal of fabrics into high-value commodities, reducing waste accumulation in landfills. 

Fungal pathogens pose a significant threat to the agricultural industry causing extensive damage and crop loss. Fungi belonging to the Fusarium genus, known for its induction of "Fusarium Head Blight" (FHB) in cereal crops, cause severe crop damage and secrete mycotoxins. Current detection methods of Fusarium are lacking as they are time-consuming and require trained laboratory technicians. Our team aims to develop an early warning system for Fusarium infection using antigen binding-dependent fluorescent protein constructs. Upon binding to infected plants, this construct will interact with Fusarium producing fluorescence. The resulting red emission will be detectable with our automated drone system. This detection system incorporates AI and drone technology, to scan a field and map the fluorescent emission from our construct where infection is present. The objective of Project FEDDS is to develop an effective and efficient fungal pathogen detection method to reduce their adverse effects on the agricultural industry.