Bamboo Products: Bending Towards the Future

 by ecohookups.com contributor: Ellen Marie Siloy

If you’ve been following the trends in sustainability you’ve probably have come across the numerous bamboo products available today. But if not, then it’s high time for you to meet the versatile, eloquent, resilient but flexible grass.

Bamboo along with other sustainable materials has become one of the most useful banners in the eco-living advocacy. From the eco-chic fashion to the sturdy and cool bamboo houses, bamboo has come a long way. So why the sudden rise as superstar status? Basically it’s because of the compelling benefits it possesses. Well, the fact is bamboo in design and construction has been around for decades, especially in regions where it is abundant. Regions such as Southeast Asia and some parts in Americas and Mid-Atlantic United States have already been using bamboo extensively in the past.

Getting to Know the Humble Grass

Bamboo is so versatile you could virtually use its every part. From its roots, which help prevent erosion, its bamboo shoots (young bamboo) where you can delightfully make condiments and pickles, and the infamous long stalk which can be used in creating exotic décor, exquisite furniture and sturdy abodes.

Bamboo is just absolutely stunning. Have you seen Bu Yeon Dang? If not, then you’ve better check the beautiful bamboo house designed by IROJE KHM Architects. Along with this architectural marvel, there are a lot of beautifully designed homes and buildings made of bamboo you can find almost every part in the globe.

Another great thing about bamboo is that it has a natural substance that makes it bacterial and fungal free which is a huge advantage when using bamboo textiles, kitchen countertops, bamboo bathroom mats and other items which is highly prone to mold and mildew

Deforestation and global warming are two major environmental issues that our world faces today and bamboo though may not be able to eliminate these problems, can be helpful in easing up the dilemma. There are many studies conducted which showed bamboo groves yielding 30% -35 % of clean air or oxygen more than the same volume of hardwood forests. In addition to this, bamboo is such a fast grower it can grow a 100 cm long in a 24 hour period. With this fast growth it can be harvested quicker than that of the hardwood which makes it a good alternative in many construction materials.

So all in all, in bamboo you’ll get the whole package. Strong, beautiful and friendly to the environment all rolled into one.