Why Bamboo?
Bamboo has been a go-to raw
material for centuries.
Species of the plant can be
found in both tropical and
temperate climates across
the globe. Caribbean varieties
are small in diameter and so
the larger Asiatic species are
utilized the most. In addition
to being widespread across
the island, compared to other
‘tree species’, it is
exceptionally fast growing.
The structure of the plant
enables it to be used for
anything from craft items to
construction, food or animal
fodder.
Believe it or not, before the
keen interest in bamboo in
the past few decades, when
not used for yam stakes by
farmers or the occasional
temporary structure (usually
for gatherings like funerals) it
was thought of as a nuisance
by farmers who would usually
clear away the fast growing
foliage for arable land. So
great is the potential of this
plant that it is cited as an
exceptional economic
resource for poverty
reduction. Let’s look at the
possibilities that exist for
creating a bamboo business
in Jamaica.
Construction
Bamboo has been extensively
used for construction in rural
areas worldwide. While
studies show that bamboo
can provide some utility,
especially for low cost
housing solutions, it is not as
structurally sound as other
natural construction material.
With that said, bamboo can
still be used for smaller or
less permanent or decorative
structures. It can also be
Issue �: April ����
�