World Bamboo Day

Bamboo is a fast growing, sustainable resource that uses very little water, releases significantly more oxygen into the air and performs well when used to make hundreds of different types of products, from fuel and building materials to paper and cloth. World Bamboo Day seeks to increase public awareness around the globe, making more people aware and knowledgeable about this amazing sustainable plant. 

History of World Bamboo Day

Humans have been using bamboo for survival for thousands of years. Native to Asia, particularly China and India, this beautiful specimen is the fastest-growing land plant on earth and has been used throughout history as a building material, food source, and even for musical instruments. In recent years, this valuable resource has become even more important around the globe due to its combined sustainability and functionality.

For more than 30 years, the World Bamboo Organization has been working hard to promote and increase public understanding about the benefits and uses of bamboo. World Bamboo Day was established in 2009 when it was declared by the Thai Royal Forest Department at the World Bamboo Congress, which was held in Bangkok that year. Individuals, groups and businesses all observe this day to raise awareness about bamboo and to promote its use.

How to Celebrate World Bamboo Day

Use Bamboo at Home or Work

An excellent way to combat some of the struggles with conservation is to substitute bamboo for products traditionally made from slow-growing hardwood trees or cotton. This fabulous plant can be used to make so many different products.

In the kitchen, bamboo can be used for small items like replacing plastic cutlery or paper coffee filters, or for larger items like tableware and cutting boards or even furniture and flooring. Bamboo can also be used to make clothing out of materials such as bamboo rayon or bamboo linen. And home crafters can use bamboo yarn to make various knitting, crocheting and other craft projects.

Try Growing Bamboo

Bamboo thrives in moist, well-drained soil, but it remains stable almost anywhere and is very low maintenance. It absorbs unhealthy greenhouse gasses and, in turn, gives off up to 35% more oxygen than other trees. These plants are pest resistant so there’s no need for pesticides – and it is not enjoyed by deer, which makes it very attractive for gardeners.