Going Green

Bamboo: God’s Unique Gift to the Human Race

Bamboo
© Chuttersnap / Unsplash

Bamboos are grown all over the world and there are over 1,000 species of bamboo. It is a type of grass and grows from roots. When it is cut, it quickly grows back, with most species maturing in 3-5 years. This amazing plant grows in a variety of environments and doesn’t need any pesticides or herbicides to grow well.

Facts about the sustainability of bamboo

Illustration of panda holding onto bamboo plant
World Bamboo Day is observed on 18 September to increase awareness about bamboo globally.
  • Rarely needs replanting.
  • Produces more oxygen than most trees.
  • Plays an important role in the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
  • Requires no irrigation.
  • Prevents soil erosion.
  • Bamboo fibres have less environmental damage than synthetic fibres.

Strength of bamboo

Bamboo has a tensile strength greater than that of even steel. The beauty of bamboo is that it grows with the flow and has the ability to bend in a strong wind storm. This strength lends itself very well to construction applications. These include support beams for heavy lifting, jacking operations, and structural support in homes.

Bamboo and the Green Revolution

The bamboo’s green footprint makes it a plant that could very well shape our future. As forests continue to be cleared for wood production and other needs, bamboo offers us an alternative to clear-cutting. It takes in more carbon dioxide and produces more oxygen than your average hardwood tree. This makes it a valuable partner in fighting climate change.

Cover of the September 2022 issue of The Teenager Today - Teachers' Day Special

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Prafulla Bhat

Prafulla Bhat is a home gardener and cat lover who juggles her time between nurturing home plants and her pets. She is an entrepreneur who runs a home garden business.

Prafulla Bhat

Prafulla Bhat is a home gardener and cat lover who juggles her time between nurturing home plants and her pets. She is an entrepreneur who runs a home garden business.