Everything seems to be made out of bamboo today: flooring, worktops, chopping boards, utensils, ‘phones, clothes, nappies and wipes.
Everything states how sustainable bamboo is – but is it really? Here’s a few facts.
Where does Bamboo Grow? - Bamboo is native to China and Taiwan. Highly versatile, it can be grown in different climates but grows most effectively and amazingly fast in its natural environment.
How fast can it grow? - Some species of bamboo grow over 3' (90cm) in height in a day! That's over 1.5" (3.8cm) in one hour! No other plant on earth can do this, which makes it the only woody plant that can keep up with the rate of human consumption and deforestation.
How does it compare to woody trees? - Bamboo absorbs carbon dioxide and releases over 30% more oxygen into the atmosphere compared to an equivalent mass of trees. This makes bamboo excellent for absorbing greenhouse gases and producing clean, fresh oxygen.
Is it sustainably farmed and harvested? - Bamboo is a renewable resource: when it is harvested, it continues to grow new shoots from its amazing root system. As the roots continue to grow they maintain the nutrients in the soil and prevent erosion. No additional planting or cultivation is required. No chemicals, pesticides or fertilisers are necessary for it to grow and thrive. Its own fallen leaves are reabsorbed into the soil providing all the necessary nutrients it needs.
How is it processed? - When bamboo first launched on the market many of the fabrics and products required the bamboo to be processed using harsh chemicals and did not take into account the wastewater pollution. This has changed. The mechanical cutting of bamboo today is much finer than previously and our processing plants practise a eco-closed loop system, so there's no downstream pollution. Our manufacturing plants are assessed by the British Standards Institute (BSI) and certified to SMETA standards.
What are the other benefits of Bamboo?
Bamboo is not only great for the environment, but it is also beneficial to people.
Naturally antibacterial - Bamboo contains a natural bio-agent known as Bamboo Kun which is naturally anti-bacterial. It is so effective that it eliminates and prevents over 70% of bacteria that attempt to grow on it, whether this be in its natural or fabric form. This is why bamboo does not require pesticides or chemical fertilisers for healthy growth and why it is often used today in expensive sportswear and socks.
Moisture wicking - Bamboo fibre is excellent at absorbing moisture and keeping the skin cool and dry. Even when the fibre is moist, it does not cling to skin, allowing for great breathability.
Temperature Regulating - The insulating characteristics of bamboo fibre make it great for sustaining body temperature too. It cools people down when it's hot and it keeps people warm when it's cold.
Soft. Sooooooo soft - Bamboo viscose is a super soft material which is perfect for your babies' skin.
We have taken all these amazing benefits of bamboo and used it to create award winning super soft, naturally antibacterial, breathable, absorbent eco-friendly nappies and wipes.
