2 minute read
Bamboo - my word
Bamboo beneficial or maybe not
In the previous article, we determined that African governments are using Bamboo plants to foster the reversal of Environmental damage. In this article we look into the uses and look at whether some of the uses of the plant are beneficial or not. Keeping in mind that the bamboo plant is one of the most versatile plants on earth.
Advertisement
Firstly, the bamboo plant can be used as food. There are handful species of Bamboo that are edible for humans. This is with reference to the sprouts and the shoots. These sprouts and shoots are known for their impact on weight loss, balanced cholesterol and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, they are said to contain high amounts of vitamins and fibre. Of course, this can be beneficial to all populations. If we look at any good Chinese shop, we will see plenty of bamboo in jars or tins. It is an integral part of a lot of dishes.
The second most popular use of Bamboo is Construction. This is because bamboo plants possess strength coupled with lightweight characteristics. The plants are used as a source for building bridges, houses, scaffolding and floors. Furthermore, due to the
plant’s flexibility, it can be bent, split or shaped according to needs. Of course, the plant material has to be treated in order for it to be used as construction material to avoid rot and insects.
Does this prove beneficial? Well, it too depends on the context. Does the nation really need to build a lot of buildings or not? Is the construction process of using bamboo plant really sustainable? Lastly, the Bamboo plant is used as a source of fuel and in textiles. Using bamboo as a fuel has proven to support local economies in less developed countries. When the plant is used as fuel, it results in less eco-cost than hardwood and results in a higher yield of biofuel. In the textile industry, the plant is used for clothing, cloths and yarn. However, in the textile industry, the use of the plant has resulted in controversy. Especially since the process was found to be toxic and releasing pollutants in the air. Bamboo is versatile, but it is not a ‘silver bullet’ for anything. The beneficial aspects must be weighted against the draw-backs. And that is also a political process.
