Could Bamboo Replace Wood?
By Anita Winter
Bamboo is a natural resource of the future. This fast growing plant's ability to renew itself quickly is phenomenal. Some bamboo species can grow about three feet in a day which allows for fast harvesting. Bamboo grows a new shoot from its extensive root system with no need for additional planting or farming. There are no special fertilizers needed to grow bamboo. Every part of it can be used to create something simple as chopsticks to spectacular furniture pieces and beautiful rugs.
Bamboo could replace the use of wood for nearly every application due to its strength. The plant's fibers are much stronger than wood and bamboo has a natural defense against the elements and atmosphere. Bamboo can be used to make paper, flooring, charcoal, furniture and building materials.
If there is any concern about bamboos favorite fury critter, the Giant Panda, there is no need to worry. Panda bears do live off the leaves of bamboo trees but they are interestingly enough not attracted to Moso bamboo which is mainly grown in the Anji Mountains. Because it is not consumed by the pandas, it is the most utilized type of bamboo.
The Anji Mountains are located in northwestern Zhejiang Province in China. Anji produces 12 million commercial bamboo poles a year. It also inhabits China's largest bamboo nursery. The Anji Bamboo Garden is acknowledged by researchers for containing the widest variety of bamboo to be found.
According to The Nature Conservancy website, more than 56,000 square miles of natural forest are lost each year. The fact that bamboo could someday replace hardwood offers a chance to save the forest we have left. There are companies that have tapped into this gold mine by making products that are fit for the home and great for the environment. Anji Mountain Bamboo Co. has believed in creating great flooring and rugs with these earth born natural resources.
The Anji Mountain Bamboo Shag Rug is one such product designed to be lush and dense with a traditional look of shag rugs. These are woven using an innovative bamboo and cotton yarn blend. They are very soft; in fact, these are softer and silkier than traditional shag rugs made from wool, cotton and synthetic fibers. Azo-free dye is used exclusively, which is non-toxic and friendly to the environment. These area rugs are naturally antimicrobial and antibacterial which help promote a healthy environment in your home. Bamboo yarn is hypoallergenic and is ideal for those with sensitive respiratory and skin conditions.
Bamboo is truly unique and will hopefully be one of the most demanded natural resources in the future. Its versatility is practically unlimited, and its beauty is enduring and long lasting.
