Abstract: A system and method for creating a rigid foam substitute is provided. By using natural binding materials and natural fiber materials, the system and method may be used to create environmentally friendly substitutes for expanded polystyrene. The system generally comprises a processing room and molding facility. The processing room may comprise an opener, cleaner, and blower, which may be used to break up and clean the natural fiber material. The molding facility may comprise a mixer, molder, and kiln, which may be used to create casts. The method generally entails processing a natural fiber material before mixing it with a natural binding material and fluid to create a fluidic mixture, wherein said fluidic mixture is subsequently molded and cured to create a finished product.

Abstract: A one-piece insulating container is provided. The container is formed from a container template that includes a generally flat case blank and an insulation template secured to the case blank. The case blank and insulation template may be folded simultaneously to form the three-dimensional container. The insulation template is designed to cushion and insulate an interior volume defined by the formed case blank. When folding, the insulation template conforms to the shape of the folded case blank. The case blank and insulation template may thus be manipulated in tandem to provide a completely enclosed space that is insulated on all sides. The dimensions of the case blank and insulation template may be adjusted to establish containers of varying sizes and dimensions.