World Bamboo Day

World Bamboo Organisation (WBO) declared 18th September as ”World Bamboo Day” at the 8th World Bamboo Congress held in Bangkok in 2009. This day is observed to raise awareness about the fast growing grass plant Bamboo. It is said that bamboo restores degraded land, mitigates climate change, and alleviates poverty. Below are some less known facts about Bamboo.

FACTS ABOUT BAMBOO

1. Bamboo is a tall,tree-like,fast growing perennial grass of family poaceae, comprising more than 115 genera and 1400 species.

2. Bamboo can be used for making handicrafts and paper. It is used as a substitute for wood, building and construction materials.

3. Bamboo is planted to reclaim severely degraded sites and wastelands. It is good soil binder and plays a significant role in soil and water conservation.

4. Raw leaves of bamboo are used as fodder for livestock. Species of Bamboo such as Dendrocalamus strictus and Bambusa bamboo are used to make fine quality paper.

5. Bamboo does not require fertilizers, chemicals or pesticides for it’s growth. It’s fallen leaves also provide the necessary nutrients for it’s growth.

6. Bamboo is most widely used in northeastern states of India and south east Asia for several purposes.

Please see attached images for interesting examples about usage of bamboo and its various species.