Bamboo – A World Wide Treasure Plant

Our fondness of Bamboo has grown over time as we attempt to find more sustainable solutions to take better care of our home and planet.

Bamboo is actually a grass, not a tree. It self-regenerates from its own roots, so it doesn’t need to be replanted. In addition, it doesn’t require fertilizer or pesticides that pollute our environment. It also grows faster than a weed – on average, 4 inches per day. It’s been said that you can actually watch it grow.

Sometimes dubbed “The New Green Steel” this resource is also extremely durable and strong.  It’s so versatile and strong entire homes are being built top to bottom from this robust plant.

Likewise, it’s versatile enough to produce some of the softest, best feeling fabric anyone has ever worn or slept in. After being introduced to bamboo clothing years ago while on a cruise in the Caribbean, shirts, socks, sheets and towels quickly replaced the one souvenir we now collect at every port. It provides great memories of past adventures and destinations, while at the same time being useful at home.

Bamboo kun also makes it a top contender when growing and harvesting. Bamboo kun is the antimicrobial bio-agent contained in its fiber which gives bamboo its natural antibacterial properties. Because of these properties we don’t need pesticides which often run off and pollute our environment. Likewise, this prevents bacteria and microbes growing on bamboo products. These naturally hygienic products such as cutting boards and cutlery keep them sterile and fresh.

This “all purpose” plant absorbs twice as much carbon dioxide than trees. It generates 30% more oxygen than most plants and trees. Its extensive root system can also firm up soil reducing erosion and preventing landslides.

It grows in all types of environments and geographical locations, making it nearly a worldwide option. With over 1000 species, it can be found in nearly every region in the world.

Because of this, it’s a natural resource even the poorest cultures can take advantage of.

The more we’re reminded about our planet suffering from depletion of natural resources, deforestation, and harmful amounts of waste dumped into the environment the more this natural resource rises to the top. It’s everyday offerings increase in numbers year after year replacing and ultimately preserving and protecting our home.

For all these reasons, Bamboo provides some optimism for those of us who care about our planet. This emergence of new uses for a grass that has been around far longer than we have sparks hope. It’s been used for everything from food to building construction for ages. Now, consumers and manufacturers are taking a fresh look at all that this amazing plant has to offer.

We’re excited to watch this category grow just as fast as the plant itself with new and innovative solutions that help everyone, including our planet. We think it’s a worldwide treasure plant.