For the past decade the buzz words "sustainability" and "renewable resources" have garnered the attention of the world. So what does this actually mean? A renewable resource is any resource that can or will be replenished naturally in the course of time. While hardwood trees such as pine, oak and maple are certainly a renewable resource, it can take anywhere from 30-100 years for just one of these trees to mature for harvest. Is there another natural resource out there with the strength, beauty and resilience of hardwood products? The answer could be bamboo.

Bamboo only takes 3-5 years to reach full maturation increasing output of natural materials around the world. Bamboo is technically a grass which allows harvesting again and again from the same plant. It is a very hardy plant and is able to survive in both temperate or tropical environments, surviving drought conditions and flood conditions. Because of its dense litter on the forest floor it can reduce soil erosion and actually improve soil quality in degraded and eroded areas. Proper harvesting does not kill the bamboo plant so it is able to regenerate at an accelerated pace.

There are many bamboo products out on the market today such as flooring, fencing, plywood, mats, rugs, fishing poles and even clothes made from the fibers. Bamboo has a tensile strength compared to that of soft steel making it ideal for building homes and laying flooring. Bamboo can be processed into fine materials producing soft and durable clothing, bed linens and towels.

If we are ever to solve the devastating effects of global warming and world-wide pollution we need to start investing in natural resources like bamboo. The bigger the demand for renewable resources the fewer manufacturers will be producing toxic chemical laden products that are destroying the environment.

Consider the environmental effects of buying decorative tiki thatch and other bamboo products for yourself or your home. You will not only feel good about the quality of product you're buying but you'll be supporting a healthy and ultimately sustainable planet.