In a world facing environmental problems and the coronavirus health crisis, many people are looking for healthier and eco-friendly options in their day-to-day lives. Companies and brands are promoting organic and natural products, mostly made of wood and cotton. Selective individuals and environmentalists are aware of another more sustainable option to overcome environmental and health problems caused by plastic – Bamboo! When we first think about bamboo, probably the cute pandas come into our minds. However, bamboo use and consumption are not just limited to pandas. We can also add it to our lives for making adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Let’s see why we need to incorporate bamboo and how it can be achieved.
Eliminates the hazards posed by plastic
We all can agree that single use plastic products are so widely used, from kitchenware to packaging items, plastic is literally everywhere. They may be easy to produce, but they never degrade completely and only break down to small microplastics- a process that takes several years. Many plastic wastes reach oceans and water bodies, thereby polluting them and endangering marine life. Bamboo serves as a perfect alternative for plastic because it can biodegrade completely and the other beneficial characteristics it offers such as durability, elasticity and strength.
Availability
Not many of us know the fact that bamboo is found in ample quantities worldwide. It is a grass plant that grows easily within a short duration than other plant species and is strong against pest attacks. Bamboo predominantly grows in Asia, but it can adapt to other climate conditions and sustain in different countries.
Bamboo is self-regenerating, which makes it a renewable resource. Its sturdy characteristics allow it to grow in various climatic conditions. Bamboo can be cultivated anywhere and it saves the money invested in material transportation across cities and nations.
Viable option than wood
Bamboo is regenerative, so there will never be a lack of its supply unlike wood or cotton which will eventually reach a crisis stage. Harvesting bamboo plantations takes only 3-5 years, where most trees take longer, say 10-20 years. Not only that, it is tenacious, rigid and moisture resistant; these traits make bamboo a preferred alternative to wood. It is also much cheaper than timber.
Good for the environment
Bamboo plantations restore the balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere, thereby improving air quality. Cultivating bamboo does not require any chemicals or herbicides due to its pest resistance property. Chopping down trees for obtaining wood creates wastes and contributes to soil erosion. Whereas, harvesting bamboo generates little waste and it protects the soil because the roots remain intact.
Helps us go green
Bamboo plantations reduce our overall carbon footprint along with helping us fight with climate change issues. It serves as a great alternative for planting trees having a short growth cycle and high CO2 exchange rate. Every part of a bamboo plant can be utilized for making various items such as toothbrush, kitchen towel, plates, etc. Bamboo shoots can also be used in food items. It is rich in selenium, contains many amino acids and minerals, which makes it an ideal addition to our diets.
Supports the local economy
Bamboo self regenerates, is abundant and requires low maintenance. It can be used for creating different types of products including biofuel and has wide applications including cooking, construction and household. Therefore, bamboo cultivation creates job opportunities to several people. Choosing bamboo would also mean that we would support the local economy and enhance sustainability.
Can be used in construction material
Bamboo has a high elasticity, which is why it is a perfect choice for use in building construction. The sturdiness of bamboo makes it a good and eco-friendly component for developing earthquake-proof structures. Bamboo can be used for scaffolding and preparing different shapes and designs to create artistic structures. Additionally, bamboo has a light weight that promotes easy transportation without the need for vehicular transport.
How to go about using bamboo?
The first step is that we acknowledge the various benefits of using bamboo products. Then, we can find stores that offer a wide range of items made from bamboo. Some brands also manufacture textiles made using bamboo pulp.
Here, at Bamboodu, we can select bamboo products of our liking and slowly start including this grass plant in our lifestyle. From bathroom accessories to office and home equipment, Bamboodu has them all! So, are you ready to become a bamboo user? 😊
Author Bio/About Antara Chakrabarti
Antara has qualifications in Environmental Science and Microbiology. She has a passion for sustainable living and often integrates eco-friendly practices in her daily life. Antara works as a Science and Sustainability writer with corporates and businesses. To know more about her or request her services, you can check out:
https://antarack9.wixsite.com/environmental-writer
Photo by Gary Tou on Unsplash
