Urban Bamboo Build Lab Sustainable Construction Initiative in Rural Gitega (Songa) Location: Songa commune, peri-urban fringe of Gitega Context: Rapid peri-urban expansion, informal housing, rising demand for cheap, sustainable building materials Project Aim: To pilot bamboo-based construction technologies for affordable housing, small public structures, and climate-resilient urban infrastructure. Key Components: • Establish a Bamboo Build Demonstration Hub on 2 hectares on the outskirts of Gitega (Songa) • Train 60 local youth in bamboo carpentry and prefabricated modular building systems • Construct 3 prototype structures: one community shelter, one market stall cluster, one classroom • Use locally grown Guadua angustifolia and Bambusa balcooa, combined with compressed earth floors Impact Targets (3 years): • Introduce bamboo building materials to 5 Gitega-area neighborhoods and nearby communities • Certify 30 bamboo construction technicians annually • Lower construction costs for community buildings by 20–30% using local bamboo Location: Ngozi Province, hills surrounding Busiga and Tangara communes Context: Steep terrain, degraded hillsides, heavy rainfall causing erosion, high rural population density Project Aim: To reduce hillside erosion and enhance smallholder incomes through intercropped bamboo agroforestry on degraded slopes. Key Components: • Establish pilot bamboo terraces on 50 ha of degraded farmland • Train 200 local farmers in bamboo intercropping with beans, cassava, and banana • Use bambusa vulgaris and dendrocalamus asper (fast-growing, erosion-resistant species) • Develop a village-level bamboo shoot processing unit (for food + sale) • Partner with local cooperatives to produce handcrafted bamboo fencing and baskets Impact Targets (3 years): • Reduce topsoil loss by 40% in pilot zones • Boost household income by 25% through bamboo shoot sales and craftwork • Create 50 permanent jobs in planting, processing, and marketing Green Hills Livelihood Corridor Bamboo Agroforestry in Ngozi Province CURRENT PROJECTS Discover the transformative impact of our two flagship initiatives and explore how each project is pioneering sustainable solutions for tomorrow's challenges. © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

Bamboo in Africa A Green Bounty Pyramids, diamond mines and safaris through the Serengeti, just a few things that come to mind when we think of Africa. And somewhere, near the bottom of a very long list, we might encounter bamboo. But Africa, a continent shrouded in mystery, is actually home to a surprising abundance of the miracle grass, bamboo. Read The Article GALLERY SEE MORE THE CHINA-AFRICA BAMBOO CENTER TO BE BUILT IN ETHIOPIA Bilateral discussion has taken place between the 'National forestry and Grass land Administration office for National Afforestation Committee' of China and officials from the Ethiopian Environment, Forest and climate change commission. BAMBOO PLAYS AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN REGENERATING EAST AFRICAN TRANSBOUNDARY WETLANDS A 2020 Wetlands International report noted that the Sio-Siteko wetlands faced many challenges to its survival, including a fast-growing population, high levels of poverty, and weak governance systems and structures. A Guide to Bamboo Types Read The Article © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

Reading List Title Series Authors Year Exploitation et importance socio-économique du bambou de chine, Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J.C. Wendl. (Poaceae) dans la région de l’Agnéby-Tiassa: cas de la Sous-Préfecture d’Azaguié (Sud-Est de la Côte d’Ivoire) International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences Dje, Bi Dobo Pierre Valence; Koffi, Jean Kouao; Vroh, Bi Tra Aimé; Kpangui, Kouassi Bruno; Yao, Constant Yves Adou 2018 April 12 Green Gold of Africa - Can growing native bamboo in Ethiopia become a commercially viable business The Forestry Chronicle Böck, Felix 2014 October Hear the Parable of the Bamboo: Africa Approaching a Jubilee The Ecumenical Review Paride Taban 1997 October Ecosystem services and biomass stock from bamboo stands in central and southern Benin, West Africa Energy, Ecology and Environment Houdanon, Roel Dire; Mensah, Sylvanus; Gnanglè, Césaire; Yorou, Nourou Soulemane; Houinato, Marcel 2018 March 10 Potentials of Bamboo-Based Agroforestry for Sustainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review Agricultural Research Partey, Samuel T.; Sarfo, Daniel A.; Frith, Oliver; Kwaku, Michael; Thevathasan, Naresh V. 2017 January 19 Population structure of two bamboo in relation to topographical units in the Republic of Benin (West Africa): Implications for sustainable management Acta Botanica Gallica Tovissodé, F.C.; Honfo, H.S.; Salako, V.K.; Gnanglè, C.P.; Mensah, S.; Glèlè Kakaï, R. 2015 January 02 Bamboo Shoots: Asian Migration, Trade and Business Networks in South Africa Journal for Studies in Economics and Econometrics Kerby, E. 2018 August 1 Study on Behaviour of Coconut Shell Aggregate Concrete with Bamboo Reinforcement in Compression Member International Journal of Engineering Research in Africa Amutha, S.; Arul Prakash, D.; Lakshmipathy, M.; Kumaran, G.Senthil 2015 July © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

Mission The Burundi National Bamboo Research Centre is committed to pioneering sustainable bamboo-based solutions that combat environmental degradation while enhancing rural prosperity across Burundi. Established in 2017 under ISABU, our mission integrates scientific research with community engagement to transform the challenges of soil erosion and deforestation into opportunities for ecological restoration and climate resilience. Through our work in bamboo propagation, cultivation techniques, and product development, we aim to position Burundi as a leader in East Africa's emerging green economy. We serve as a bridge between traditional knowledge and modern science, empowering rural cooperatives with the skills needed for sustainable bamboo enterprises while contributing to national reforestation strategies. Our vision is a Burundi where bamboo cultivation creates both environmental sustainability and economic opportunity for generations to come. © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

Benedict Omondi holding his golden bamboo Omondi, a pioneer bamboo farmer, is convinced that the initiative will aid in reducing degradation of the Sio-Siteko transboundary wetland that borders his land. He has planted more that 100 bamboo trees on his six acre farm. He says that with the help of Eco-Green Kenya, he and other farmers also have a market for their bamboo, which is used in making beds, trays, tables, lampshades, baskets and in the construction of houses The income Omondi, a retired schoolteacher, receives from his bamboo has offered him a lifeline. "Each tree, when harvested, fetches Kenya Shillings 500 (S5). The bamboo shoots are also edible and have medicinal value, and the leaves are used to feed livestock," he says. Namandi says that, initially, local community members were sceptical about their prospects as bamboo farmers, with low adoption numbers, although farmers like Omondi who embraced the project have seen the benefits. Bamboo Plays an Important Role in Regenerating East African Transboundary Wetlands Article by Justus Wanzala Published on January 11, 2022 Farmer Benedict Omondi on his wetland bamboo plantation in western Kenya A 2020 Wetlands International report noted that the Sio-Siteko wetlands faced many challenges to its survival, including a fast-growing population, high levels of poverty, and weak governance systems and structures. But as a 2015 report by social networking conservation platform Tunza Eco Generation noted, bamboo is an effective tool both for reversing wetlands degradation and alleviating poverty. "No other woody plant matches bamboo's versatility in environmental conservation and commerce to societies living near wetlands ecosystems and their associated riparian catchments areas throughout the world," the report said. Jackline Namadi, the coordinator of Eco-Green Kenya, a Busia based community organisation that promotes bamboo cultivation, agrees. She says they are working with other stakeholders to promote bamboo. "We work with the county government, the ministry of Environment and Forestry in Kenya, and conservation organisations and communities in Kenya and Uganda to conserve the wetlands and ensure livelihoods," says Namandi. Robert Sunya, the Dutch Sino East Africa Bamboo Development Program technical officer for the International Bamboo and Rattan Organisation INBAR) says, *The future is bright; a county like Busia already has 4,000 bamboo farmers, It is high time students in tertiary institutions pursued bamboo related studies to start their own enterprises and harness available opportunities.* Likewise, Dennis Chirande, director of Environmental and Natural Resources for Busia County, says the county government appreciates the role bamboo plays in conserving and regenerating local wetlands, and has submitted a strategy paper to promote its adoption. Chirande says his department has a nursery with 10,000 bamboo seedlings to distribute to farmers living along the Sio-Siteko transboundary wetland. According to Chirande, bamboo cultivation will also increase tree cover in the county, which currently stands at Jess than 5% of the land. There have been challenges, In Busia, Namandi says, the bamboo seeds for the second phase of planting failed to germinate properly. Seedlings have also been regularly affected by seasonal flooding and livestock encroachment. "We plant the seedlings during the dry season to avoid the effect of floods, meaning they must be watered, which is costly," she adds. "Erratic rainfall has also compelled communities around the wetland to invade it for food cultivation, because during droughts, it is the only land that has moisture to grow food and it's fertile" There's also been a problem with differing land tenure systems in Kenya and Uganda. Whereas Kenyan farmers have individual ownership of parts of the wetland and can easily make decisions on their use, in Uganda wetlands are communally owned, and are used for grazing land, which means collective decisions are required to change their use. "In Uganda it is difficult to change [wetland] use and some fear it will deny their livestock pasture lands," says Namandi. The impact of this variation in the laws of the two countries has led Eco-Green Kenya and its partners to sign conservation agreements with communities to ensure the focus is on collaboration and partnership to avoid programmes getting bogged down by legalities. Further afield, Nellie Mugure Oduor, INBAR's national coordinator, says its Dutch-Sino East Africa Bamboo Development Programme (which is in its second phase, 2020-2023) is underway in Ethiopia as well as Kenya and Uganda, funded by the Netherlands and China. Programme objectives include creating sustainable and lucrative bamboo value chains for industry and small-to-medium enterprises by upscaling existing value chains and diversifying into new ones. Accarding to Oduor, the programme is expected to directly benefit some 28,500 people, as well as restore 5,000 hectares of degraded land with bamboo, and enhance sustainable management practices for 5,000 hectares of bamboo plantations and farms in the three countries. "The target groups are smallholder farmers, women, youth, small-to-medium enterprises and larger industries," she notes. In Cameroon, another INBAR programme is evaluating the potential of bamboo and other native, non-timber forest products to restore degraded land in the country and create new income streams. In 2016-19 INBAR also successfully implemented a World Bank-funded programme in Ethiopia. Overall, Oduor says, 12 exotic bamboo Species were introduced, two million seedlings produced and some 400 hectares of bamboo planted. Another key INBAR project, she says, is located on the transboundary Mara River shared by Kenya and Tanzania. 'This project includes restoring river banks along the Mara River by creating bamboo plantations on riparian zones, soil and water restoration, carbon sequestration estimated at 1,500 tons and improving the livelihoods of the communities," she says. According to the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research (CGIAR)'s programme on forests, trees and agroforestry (FTA). Uganda also has a National Bamboo Strategy and Action Plan for 2019-2029, whose focus is on managing the country's bamboo resources to provide economic, social and environment benefits for all. In addition, in Kenya, there are collaborative efforts between stakeholders and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry to develop a bamboo policy and the creation of an enabling environment for bamboo value addition through, for instance, taxation and exploring the ssue of product standards. In addition, asthe sector grows, the need for investment in capacity development and research in new technologies is emerging. But while bamboo is a game changer in tackling climate change challenges, wetland degradation and the protection of livelihoods. Namandi emphasises that communities must take a leading role. "We work with many stakeholders, but to attain much, the ball is in the hands of individuals and their communities © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

BAMBOO APPLICATION IN BUILDING DESIGN: CASE STUDY OF GREEN SCHOOL, BALI, INDONESIA Bambang Karsono Mohamad Shihadeh A. Arar Julaihi Wahid Bassim Saleh Abstract Bamboo has been known widely as a material for buildings since the dawn of the century. Nevertheless, bamboo is often regarded as a low- class building material which has commonly used by low-income people. Since the issue of global warming and sustainability, bamboo became a focus for building material due to its sustenance and fast growth in the natural environment. Architects and builders alike started to choose bamboo as an alternative to wood. Furthermore, it is difficult to get good-quality woods for construction and historically, a vast tract of land has been ruined due to deforestation that caused an adverse effect on the surroundings. This paper attempts to discuss the properties of bamboo and how it is inventively applied in building design. Descriptive-qualitative methods were used in this study to reveal an understanding of the application of bamboo in building design. To further enhance the finding and context of discussing a case study on how bamboo has been used in designing the structure in an innovative organic form. The result from this research found out that bamboo is noble to be considered as an alternative material in building design due to its natural properties, exclusively for curvilinear organic-form building that hardly achieved in steel and concrete. 1. INTRODUCTION The image of bamboo usually reflects the characteristics and context of Asian and tropical countries. Usually, in Indonesia, it is easy to find a bamboo plant with various kinds of species in almost every region of the country. Scientists indicated that 1,250 bamboo species found in all around the world and 11 percent of them are locally endemic to Indonesia. Bamboo plant has a definite property to preserve an environmental balance such as to avoid erosion and to improve groundwater quality. Normally, bamboo can grow up 10 to 30 centimeters in a day which is faster than any kind of timber. After 3-5 years, the bamboo plant achieves its maturity and ready to be harvested. For generations, bamboo is widely known by the people in Indonesia as used as a local material for various purposes in their daily life. Bamboo plants in Indonesia are found in both lowlands and highlands with an altitude of about 300 m above the sea level and are generally grown in open areas and free of puddles (Purwito, 2008). However, bamboo is often regarded as 'a low-income material' because it generally used by the working class in building shelter. This stereotype presumption affects the middle to high-income people to disregard bamboo as a building material in their design. They prefer to suit their architectural design according to the trends leading towards high-end technologies with modern materials, commonly, steel, concrete, glass or brick. Therefore, this study attempts to examine the properties of bamboo and will deliberately apply a case study to elaborate and explore the application of bamboo in building design. 2. METHODOLOGY This research will employ a descriptive-qualitative technique in conducting the study to reveal an understanding as well as the applications of bamboo as a material in building design. The discussion focuses on the utilization of bamboo in building design and how the creative and innovative way of this humble material can address the current demand for sustainable and green architectural issues. Some factors are taken into account for the analysis, i.e., types of bamboo to generate building form, how the creativity in construction technique can be manipulated and the creativity of local craftsmanship. The case study scrutinizes the building of the Heart of Green School (HGS) inside the Green School Complex in Bali, Indonesia. It was selected to enlighten further the application of bamboo as key building materials, the complexity of the design and the technique of construction. HGS, as the main building in the Green School Complex, shows the ingenuity of the architect to utilize the humble material to its utmost wonder to reveal its aesthetic nature and technique of connections. The case study helps to designate the competence of bamboo as a key building material and construction technique, that respects the environment and fulfill the requirement of sustainable design and green architecture. 3. LITERATURE REVIEW Bamboo has good properties as construction material, for its splendid characteristics such as strong, flexible, straight, even, hard, flush, easy to split, easy to be fabricated and lightweight material. Moreover, bamboo is relatively cheap compared to other building materials because of its availability and easy to be found in all regions in Indonesia (Purwito, 2012). Bamboo belongs to the grass species, and its tensile strength is better than steel. Bamboo can grow ten to thirty percent faster than other trees which only reach two to five percent per year and the production of fifty to one hundred tons per hectare (depending on species, soil and climate). In each colony bamboo plants consist of sixty to seventy percent stems ten to fifteen percent branches and fifteen to twenty percent leaves. Bamboo plants are good to speed up groundwater recycle processes, even two hundred and forty percent better than a pine forest. It has been used for soil consolidation, where its roots have strong properties to retain soil erosion. On the other hand, bamboo plants absorb CO2 as much as sixty-two tons per hectare per year, which is four times larger than other forest plant species that can only absorb fifteen tons per hectare each year. Bamboo also releases O2 thirty-five percent higher than other forest plants during the photosynthesis process (Jansen, 2000). The bamboo plant grows plentifully in tropical and sub-tropical countries. In recent years, scholars clarify two important characteristics regarding cultivation and engineering properties of bamboo, such as: 1) bamboo can grow faster even in an extreme climatic region (Zhou, 1993), 2) it has good properties and many advantages, especially in bending and tensile. It overtakes other composite materials (Janssen, 1991). Scholars have evaluated some famous bamboo species regarding their physical and mechanical properties. They indicate the various density of bamboo between 500 to 800 kg/m3. It also indicates a different density according to the quantity and distribution of its fibre around the culm. Naturally, the density will grow from the centre of the culm to the periphery: from the base until the top of the culm. Usually, after three years, the maximum density will be achieved to a certain level (Espiloy, 1994). Bamboo has excellent properties in tensile strength depending on the species and the climatic condition where it is planted. The tensile strength also differs according to the lengthwise and course of the stems. The lower part of the stems (stem base) has a higher tensile strength than the upper. However, the upper stems have a higher bending strength than the lower part (Kabir et al., 1993). The strength inside the bamboo stems itself is formed during the third to the fourth year of growing, then it will decrease gradually. Therefore, the maturity period of the bamboo stems can be considered around three to four years in relation to its strength and density. The good quality of the stem maturity is crucial and is a prerequisite for the finest utilization of bamboo in building construction and other structural applications. Formerly, most buildings in Indonesia and Southeast Asian countries used bamboo straight away as both structural and non-structural materials. The mass application of bamboo is used in traditional buildings and shelters because it is abundant in the region. Besides, it can grow faster than other kinds of plants. However, bamboo is rarely used as a building material is for it signifies the backward rural traditions. Nowadays, many modern builders believe that bamboo has a shabby image and considered it as inexpensive materials and rated it as 'poor-people' material (Lobokivovet al., 2009). In general, the choice of steel, brick, or concrete is preferable that symbolize modern materials. Currently, in line with the issues of global warming and sustainability, bamboo re-emerges as an alternative material to be used in building construction. Perhaps the difficulty to get them straight and quality timber for building construction as well as mass-deforestation issues become a major concern. Now, the people turn to bamboo and bamboo can be harvested between 3-5 years, meanwhile wood requires a longer time to grow to be utilized as construction materials. In addition, the bamboo plants can release excessive oxygen into the air. This is the advantage of bamboo as compared to mass-industrial materials such as steel, plastic, and concrete. Therefore, bamboo has broadly recognized as a sustainable material for building construction. 4. CASE STUDY: GREEN SCHOOL, BALI, INDONESIA Green School is sited in Banjar Saren, Kampung Sibang Kaja, Abiansemal, Badung, which is about thirty kilometres away from downtown Denpasar, Bali. The school has won the Aga Khan Award for the recycle category in 2010. Green School was operated in May 2009 with a current capacity of 700 students. It is clustered into kindergarten, elementary and junior high school. John Hardy, a Canadian businessman who has lived in Bali for over 30 years, was initiated the school. His devotion and passion for the Balinese culture, education, and environment led him to establish the school. According to him, the earliest idea of the school was to cover an area of 20-hectare land. He was influenced by the traditional philosophy of life in Bali known as Trihita Karana which is based on the three principles of nature namely: harmony amongst the people, harmony to environment and nature and harmony to God. In each process, there are no manufactured materials or chemicals were used in the construction of the school. The school complex was built using an organic permaculture system and was designed to adapt in perfect cohesion with soil ecology. All buildings inside the school complex were intended to develop a civilization that respects nature by utilizing organic materials and renewable energy sources, such as micro hydropower, solar power, and bio-diesel. On the contrary, each building was not designed by an architect, instead of by a team of electrical engineers, designers and bamboo artists in Bali (Figure1). Figure 1: Orthographic drawing of ‘Heart of Green School’ Building The layout of the building responses to the natural orientation, consisting of several building masses. The school complex was sited dominantly, among the masses and is used according to the functions as follows: classroom, laboratory, multi-function hall, office, student dormitory, teacher’s house, etc. The design of the building form was revised several times to suit its structure and construction system. A two to three storeys building is located at the centre of the site as the main building (HGS) that is dominated by three spherical shapes resemblance the nautilus shell of the complex. This nautilus takes after the roof that linked to the wide envelope below the building, while smaller size nautilus is connected harmoniously in a continuous order of expected nautilus shape (Figure 1). 5. DISCUSSION The observation from the case study shows that the Heart of the Green School (HGS) functioned as an office is a two to a three-story building surrounded by a double elliptical plan pattern, whereas three spiral-shaped staircases are directed into three core systems of the building to secure and stabilize the building structure. The cores are the highest level which is pragmatically connected to form a single structure building within the spiral organization. Three types of local bamboo were used in the HGS construction system, namely Dendrocalamus asper (bamboo petung), Gigantochloa apus (bamboo rope), and Bambusa blumeana (bamboo thorn). The roof structure of each building is covered with bundles of cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica), while an alternate combination of bamboo, clay, mud, and kapok was also used to construct the wall. It is distinguished that the HGS building is taking an organic shape, where arches, spline, and other curvature profiles have naturally supported the weight above; thus, bamboo is the most appropriate material to achieve these (Figure 2). The lightweight of bamboo enabled the integration of the roof and supporting structure cohesively. Many scholars had characterized two types of techniques in bending the bamboo for construction purposes (Dunkelberg, 1985), i.e., hot and cold method. Hot bending technique acknowledged by dipping the bamboo in lukewarm water to soften the fibres tolerably to be bent by using the clamp accordingly, or by heating up a certain part of the bamboo to a specific heat usually below 150 degrees Celcius. Whereas cold bending technique can be finished by splitting the bamboo into flat strips then tie them together as a wad, another way is by slicing bamboo stems to form a curvature. These two techniques can create smooth or segmented bamboo curvature that may upgrade or reduce the strength of bamboo (Maurina, et al., 2015). The splitting method is applied in the HGS structure system, mainly to support the arches that distribute the structure into spaces for the classrooms. However, this splitting technique may reduce the strength properties of bamboo which have consequences to trigger a structural deformation or deflection (Maurina, et al., 2015). The correct dimension must be equivalent to the span as required to avoid deformation or deflection of the structural system. Figure 2: Organic-nautilus shape of HGS buildin HGS implemented the active-structure system with its organic-nautilus shape (Maurina, et al., 2014). The organic-nautilus shell shape is generated to tackle the surface structure by using bamboo pillars to support its battens, rafters, and purlins (Figure 3). The system resembles a tensile structure system while the round purlins help to provide a continuous strength to support the shell shape of the roof. In lieu of the main hall space, a wide-span arches structure system helped to stabilize the roof by rafters applied along the eaves to produce better protection from tropical wind, sunlight and rain. Figure 3: Interior shows the structural system. In terms of the structure properties, Dendrocalamus asper (bamboo petung) is stiff, high strength and compressive value are used as columns for it enables to bear the compressive force as well as to sustain deflection risk. On the other hand, Gigantochloa apus (bamboo rope) was used for small beam as well as to support floor plate, roof frame, and rafter. It also possesses the same value on flexural, tensile and compressive strength. together, laminated split bamboo was used to bind the vertical core structure. 6. CONCLUSION The utilization of bamboo for building construction material in creative and innovative ways could create an interesting architectural structure and give a good choice in architectural design. As applied in Green School, the potential of bamboo was explored in the design and construction, which created a good image that fits the purpose and blends with nature harmoniously. Implementation of bamboo for building construction material has to be explored further, especially to promote appropriate technology and create employment among the locals. The skill of the craftsman, as well as the technique of construction, has to be refined. Although there were several new techniques applied to bend the bamboo to get the preferred shape and form, yet hot and cold bending technique is still popular and commonly used to achieve an interesting organic shape as that of HGS. Therefore, awareness concerning the nature and properties of bamboo is necessary in this case. Correspondingly, the understanding of the appropriate structure system and also bending technique is compulsory. Nevertheless, to classify bamboo as a sustainable material to be used for building construction is still debatable, particularly concerning its chemical treatment preservation method. It is necessary to accomplish further research to find out appropriate and environmentally friendly preservation methods that require natural or non-chemical ingredients to reduce the negative impact on the environment. 7. AVAILABILITY OF DATA AND MATERIAL Data can be made available by contacting the corresponding author. 8. REFERENCES Dunkelberg, K., (1985), Bambus Bamboo. Germany: Institut fur Leichte Flachentragwerke (IL). Espiloy, Z.B. (1991), Effect of age on the physico-mechanical properties of some Philippinebamboo. In Bamboo in Asia and the Pacific. Proceedings of the 4th International BambooWorkshop, Chiangmai, Thailand, 27-30 November 1991, 180-182. Jansen, J.J.A, (2000), Designing and Building with Bamboo. Technical Report No. 20: International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR), 2000. Janssen, J.J.A. (1990), The importance of bamboo as a building material, in Ramanuja Rao, IV.;Gnanaharan, R.; Sastry, C.B., ed., Bamboos: current research. Proceedings of the International Bamboo Workshop, Cochin, India, 14-18 November 1988. Kerala Forest. Kabir, M.F., Bhattacharjee, D.K., Sattar, M.A., (1993), Effect of age and height on strength properties of Dendrocalamus longispaths. Bamboo Information Centre India Bulletin 3(l), 11-15. Lobokivov, M., Lou, Y., Schoene, D., Widenoja, R., (2009), The Poor Man’s Carbon Sink: Bamboo in Climate Change and Poverty Alleviation. Rome: FAO. Maurina, A., (2015), “Curved Bamboo Structural Element” in 2015 Proceeding of InternationalConstruction Workshop and Conference Parahyangan Bamboo Nation 2, 81-92. Maurina, A., Sari, W.E., Krisanti, J., Adhisaksana, J., (2014) Komparasi Penggunaan Material Bambu dalam Struktur ‘Form Active’ dan ‘Semi Form Active’ pada Bangunan Lengkung Berbentang Lebar, Bandung: Universitas Katolik Parahyangan. Purwito, (2008), “Standarisasi Bambu sebagai Bahan Bangunan Alternatif Pengganti Kayu,” in 2008 Prosiding PPI Standardisasi., 1-17. Purwito, (2010), “Laminated Bamboo: The Future Wood,” in 2015 Proceeding of International Construction Workshop and Conference Parahyangan Bamboo Nation 2, 19-58. © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

THE SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRY OF TOMORROW Nature’s Sustainable Wonder Bamboo stands apart from traditional resources through its extraordinary combination of growth rate and environmental benefits. Unlike hardwood trees that may take decades to mature, most bamboo species reach harvest maturity in just 3-5 years. Some varieties can grow up to four feet in a single day, making bamboo one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth. The sustainability credentials of bamboo are impressive: Requires no pesticides or chemical fertilizers Rarely needs replanting as it regenerates from its own root system Sequesters carbon dioxide and produces 35% more oxygen than equivalent stands of trees Requires minimal water compared to other crops Prevents soil erosion through its extensive root system Grows in diverse environments and climates Revolutionizing Construction Perhaps bamboo’s most promising industrial application lies in construction. Already, over one billion people worldwide live in bamboo houses. The material’s remarkable strength—with a compressive strength exceeding concrete and tensile strength rivaling steel—makes it ideal for structural applications. In countries like China, unprocessed bamboo has long been used instead of timber and steel for various construction purposes. From residential buildings to bridges capable of supporting 16-ton trucks, bamboo’s structural applications continue to expand. According to UNESCO, just 70 hectares of bamboo can produce enough material to build 1,000 houses—a yield that would require significantly more land and time if using traditional timber. As sustainable building practices gain momentum globally, bamboo flooring, wall panels, and structural elements are finding their way into modern architecture, offering both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. Transforming Textiles and Fashion The textile industry—one of the world’s most polluting sectors—stands to benefit tremendously from bamboo integration. Bamboo fiber can be processed in two primary ways: Mechanical processing: Creates bamboo linen with minimal environmental impact Chemical processing: Produces bamboo rayon or viscose through more intensive chemical treatments When properly processed, bamboo textiles offer remarkable properties: Breathability and thermal regulation Superior moisture-wicking compared to polyester Natural antibacterial properties that resist odor Softness and comfort comparable to premium cotton From everyday clothing to luxury fabrics, bamboo’s presence in the fashion industry continues to grow as consumers and brands seek more sustainable alternatives to conventional materials. Reinventing Consumer Goods The versatility of bamboo makes it ideal for replacing plastic and other less sustainable materials in countless consumer products: Kitchen and Dining: Utensils, cutting boards, plates, and cups Personal Care: Toothbrushes, combs, razors, and bathroom accessories Home Furnishings: Furniture, decorative items, and household goods Office Supplies: Pens, pencils, desk organizers, and stationery Many of these products traditionally rely on plastics or hardwoods, making bamboo alternatives significantly more sustainable while maintaining functionality and often adding aesthetic appeal. Pioneering Energy Solutions Bamboo’s potential extends to the energy sector as well. Bamboo charcoal has been used for centuries as cooking fuel in Asian countries, and modern applications are expanding: Bamboo biomass for electricity generation Charcoal production for cooking and heating Bamboo vinegar (pyroligneous acid) extraction during charcoal production, yielding around 400 different chemical compounds used in cosmetics, agriculture, and food processing As the world seeks alternatives to fossil fuels, bamboo’s rapid growth makes it an increasingly attractive option for sustainable bioenergy production. Bamboo represents far more than just another sustainable material—it embodies a fundamental shift in how we think about resources and their applications. Its remarkable combination of growth rate, strength, versatility, and environmental benefits positions bamboo as a cornerstone material for the sustainable industries of tomorrow. From the buildings we live in to the clothes we wear, the products we use daily, and even the energy that powers our lives, bamboo offers sustainable alternatives that don’t require sacrificing quality or functionality. As global sustainability challenges intensify, bamboo’s star will continue to rise, potentially becoming one of the most important resources in our transition to a truly sustainable future. © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

What is Bamboo Used For? Exploring 10 Sustainable Applications Alison Barretta https://treestopsecrets.com/bamboo/what-is-bamboo-used-for/ Bamboo, an amazing plant and lignocellulosic biomass, has played a pivotal role in various cultures for centuries. Its rapid growth as a sustainable material makes it an eco-friendly choice that is gaining traction in many industries. The plant's unique characteristics have led to numerous studies exploring its diverse uses across the world. Bamboo's characteristics, from construction materials to water resistance, make it an invaluable addition to our daily lives. The Versatility of Bamboo Daily Life Applications Bamboo is incredibly versatile and finds wide range of uses in everyday life. It's commonly employed in flooring, furniture, and kitchenware due to its remarkable strength and durability. Bamboo flooring has become popular for its eco-friendly properties and stylish appearance. It's utilized in textiles to create soft fabrics like bamboo rayon or viscose. Moreover, bamboos produce pulp used to make paper products such as tissue paper and stationery. The use of bamboo in these applications is beneficial because it provides sustainable alternatives while offering practical benefits. For example, bamboo kitchenware is lightweight yet sturdy, making it perfect for daily cooking needs. Furthermore, bamboo textiles are known for their breathability and moisture-wicking properties, making them ideal for clothing. Sustainable Practices One of the most significant advantages of using bamboo species lies in its sustainability. Bamboo cultivation requires minimal water and suitable soil compared to other plants commonly used for similar purposes like cotton or wood trees. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice that helps conserve water resources. Unlike many crops that require pesticides to thrive, bamboo naturally resists pests and diseases without the need for chemical intervention. Furthermore, due to its extensive root system that binds soil together tightly, planting bamboo can help prevent soil erosion effectively. Its rapid growth rate also contributes to its sustainability factor since it can be harvested within three to five years after planting – a much shorter time frame compared to traditional wood trees like oak or maple. Cultural Significance In various Asian cultures including China and Japan among others around the world have long revered bamboo as a symbol of strength, flexibility, resilience, and soil which holds deep cultural significance beyond just being a resource material alone - often associated with virtues highly regarded by these societies such as humility through flexibility; resilience amid challenges; adaptability despite harsh conditions etcetera. Moreover, bamboo plays an integral role in traditional ceremonies where it may be crafted into musical instruments or ornamental items used during festivals – showcasing how deeply ingrained this natural resource is within cultural practices worldwide. Bamboo in Construction Building Materials Bamboo is a versatile material widely used in construction for bamboo scaffolding, flooring, and structural components. Its high tensile strength and earthquake-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for various building applications. The light weight of bamboo also makes it suitable for prefabricated structures, allowing for efficient construction processes. Moreover, the use of bamboo as a building material offers several advantages. For example, its flexibility ensures durability in seismic zones, while its natural growth patterns provide unique variations that add aesthetic value to the structure. Due to its quick growth rate and abundance, bamboo is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional construction materials like wood or steel. Design Flexibility One of the key benefits of using bamboo in construction lies in its design flexibility. This natural material can be easily shaped into various forms to meet architectural requirements. From curved beams to intricate lattice work, bamboo's adaptability allows architects and designers to create innovative and visually appealing structures both indoors and outdoors. Furthermore, incorporating bamboo into architectural designs enhances interior and exterior aesthetics by adding a touch of nature's beauty. It provides a sustainable yet stylish option for creating modern living spaces while maintaining environmental consciousness. Structural Benefits The hollow structure of bamboos naturally facilitates ventilation within buildings when used as part of their structure or design elements. This feature contributes to energy efficiency by reducing reliance on mechanical ventilation systems while ensuring comfortable indoor environments. The plant's high strength-to-weight ratio ensures structural stability without compromising on overall weight-bearing capacity—making it particularly beneficial for constructing lightweight yet durable buildings such as pavilions or shelters. Furniture Crafting Bamboo is incredibly versatile and is commonly used to create various household items, including chairs, tables, and shelves. Its natural beauty adds an elegant touch to furniture pieces, making them stand out in any home. The material's sustainability also aligns with the growing trend of eco-friendly furniture. For example, bamboo can be crafted into stylish and sturdy chairs that are perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Crafting furniture from bamboo not only provides a visually appealing addition to homes but also supports sustainable practices. As a renewable resource, bamboo helps reduce the reliance on traditional wood sources for furniture production. This makes it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious consumers who want to furnish their homes with eco-friendly options. Decorative Items In addition to its utility in crafting furniture, bamboo is also used to make decorative items such as vases, lamps, and wall art. The plant's versatility allows artisans to create intricate designs and patterns that enhance the aesthetic appeal of these decorative pieces. For instance, intricately woven bamboo baskets can serve as both functional storage solutions and visually appealing decor elements within a home. Moreover, the natural color variations present in bamboo further contribute to its attractiveness when used in decorative items. These variations add depth and visual interest to products like vases or wall art while maintaining a connection with nature through their earthy tones. Bamboo for Household Use Sustainable Bamboo Products Eco-Friendly Clothing Bamboo fibers are revolutionizing the clothing industry. Bamboo pulp is used to produce soft, breathable fabrics that rival cotton and other synthetic materials. These fabrics offer excellent moisture-wicking properties, making them ideal for sportswear and undergarments. Bamboo-based clothing is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies. This makes it a perfect choice for eco-conscious consumers who want sustainable alternatives without compromising on comfort and performance. The use of bamboo pulp in clothing production has gained popularity due to its sustainability and environmental benefits. For instance, bamboo trees require minimal water and no pesticides to grow, reducing the ecological footprint of fabric production significantly. The fast growth rate of bamboo also means that it can be harvested more frequently than traditional timber sources, further enhancing its eco-friendly credentials. Reusable Tableware In addition to textiles, bamboo pulp is utilized in creating reusable tableware such as plates, utensils, and cups. These products are lightweight yet durable alternatives to single-use plastic items commonly found in households and food establishments. Moreover, bamboo tableware is biodegradable, meaning it naturally decomposes without leaving harmful residues in the environment. Bamboo in Food and Agriculture Edible Shoots Bamboo trees are not just a source of sustainable materials; they also play a crucial role in the food industry. Bamboo shoots are widely used as an ingredient in various cuisines around the world. These edible shoots are not only low in calories but also packed with essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins. For instance, bamboo shoots contain high levels of potassium, which is vital for maintaining healthy blood pressure and kidney function. Moreover, harvesting bamboo shoots promotes sustainable food sources as it encourages the growth of new shoots. This practice prevents over-harvesting and contributes to the longevity of bamboo forests. By incorporating these nutritious bamboo shoots into different dishes, people can benefit from their healthful properties while supporting sustainable agriculture practices. Farming Practices In addition to being a valuable food source, bamboo cultivation supports agroforestry systems that promote biodiversity and environmental sustainability. Agroforestry integrates trees into farming systems, enhancing ecological balance by providing habitats for diverse species while simultaneously benefiting agricultural production. Furthermore, bamboo farming aids in carbon sequestration through photosynthesis—a process where plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen back into it—contributing to mitigating climate change effects. The extensive root system of bamboo helps prevent soil erosion by holding the soil together with its network of roots. bamboo forests provide habitat for diverse wildlife species due to their dense foliage cover and abundant organic matter on the forest floor. This fosters a balanced ecosystem where various organisms thrive within this unique tropical plant environment. Bamboo as a Renewable Energy Source Biomass Fuel Bamboo serves as a renewable energy source through combustion or gasification. When burned, it can be converted into bioenergy, providing sustainable fuel for cooking and heating. The production of bamboo charcoal also contributes to the availability of renewable and sustainable fuel options. The ability of bamboo to be converted into biomass fuel makes it an excellent resource for addressing energy needs while reducing reliance on non-renewable sources. For example, in many rural areas, where access to traditional fuels like wood or coal is limited, bamboo provides a valuable alternative that helps reduce deforestation and environmental degradation. In addition to serving as an energy source for households, the use of bamboo-derived biomass fuel has broader implications for mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional fossil fuels. Biofuel Production Bamboo's rapid growth makes it suitable for processing into biofuels such as ethanol. This means that the plant can be used not only for its physical properties but also as a raw material for producing cleaner-burning alternatives to fossil fuels. By converting bamboo biomass into biofuels, we can reduce our dependence on non-renewable resources while decreasing harmful emissions. Biofuels derived from bamboo offer significant environmental benefits by providing a cleaner alternative to conventional transportation fuels. They have the potential to contribute towards achieving sustainability goals by reducing air pollution and minimizing the impact on ecosystems compared to their fossil-based counterparts. Traditional Remedies Bamboo trees have been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries. The extracts from bamboo are incorporated into various remedies to address different ailments. Due to its antioxidant properties, bamboo is a key component in health remedies, contributing to overall well-being and holistic healing practices. For example, bamboo leaves can be used to make tea that helps boost the immune system and alleviate symptoms of colds and flu. Products derived from bamboo such as oils, powders, and tinctures are widely used in traditional medicine for their antibacterial properties. These products aid in treating skin conditions like acne or eczema due to their natural antibacterial effects. Furthermore, the high silica content found in bamboo extracts also makes them beneficial for promoting hair growth and strengthening nails when applied topically. Health Supplements Bamboo-derived supplements play a crucial role in supporting various aspects of human health. They provide an abundant source of silica, which is essential for bone health and collagen production within the body. This mineral aids in maintaining bone density and strength while also contributing to joint flexibility and mobility. Moreover, these supplements support the maintenance of healthy hair, skin, and nails due to their rich mineral content including silica. By incorporating bamboo-derived supplements into one's daily routine, individuals can experience improvements not only on the external appearance but also on internal wellness benefits such as stronger bones and healthier connective tissues. To sum up: Bamboo trees offer numerous medicinal uses ranging from traditional remedies deeply rooted in cultural practices to modern-day health supplements that cater to diverse aspects of human wellness. Medicinal Properties of Bamboo Bamboo in Arts and Culture Musical Instruments Bamboo plays a vital role in the world of music, being used to craft various instruments such as flutes, percussion instruments, and stringed instruments. The plant's resonance qualities make it suitable for musical applications, enhancing the sound produced by these instruments. For instance, bamboo flutes are renowned for their unique warm tones that add depth to musical compositions. Due to its versatility and natural tones, bamboo is highly valued by musicians and instrument makers around the globe. In traditional Asian cultures like Japan, China, and India, bamboo has been an integral part of musical heritage for centuries. The melodious notes produced by bamboo flutes have been central to ancient folk music traditions in these regions. Moreover, modern musicians continue to embrace the use of bamboo due to its eco-friendly nature and distinctive sound characteristics. Martial Arts Equipment Bamboo holds significant importance in martial arts equipment production. It is commonly utilized in crafting training weapons such as staffs and swords due to its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. This makes it ideal for creating sturdy yet lightweight gear essential for martial arts disciplines like kendo or aikido. The utilization of bamboo equipment is deeply rooted in traditional martial arts practices across Asia. Its flexibility allows practitioners to perform intricate movements with ease while ensuring durability during intense training sessions or competitions. The incorporation of bamboo staffs or swords adds authenticity and cultural significance to various forms of martial arts worldwide. Environmental Impact of Bamboo Cultivation Carbon Sequestration Bamboo forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. They absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This means that bamboo helps keep the air clean and healthy for all living things on Earth. The process of carbon sequestration is like bamboo acting as a sponge, soaking up harmful gases from the air. Just like how we use sponges to soak up spills, bamboo soaks up carbon dioxide and other pollutants, making our planet cleaner and safer for everyone. Bamboo's ability to absorb carbon dioxide also makes it an essential part of nature's way of balancing out the effects of human activities that release harmful gases into the atmosphere. So when you see products made from bamboo or visit places with plenty of bamboo trees, remember that they are helping fight climate change by absorbing those dangerous gases. Soil Erosion Prevention Another important use of bamboo trees is preventing soil erosion. The plant's roots help stabilize soil on slopes prone to erosion by binding soil particles together effectively. Imagine these roots as natural ropes holding onto the ground tightly, preventing it from being washed away during heavy rains or strong winds. When we talk about land degradation prevention, think about how farmers sometimes use nets or barriers to protect their crops from wind or rain damage—bamboo does something similar but naturally! It acts as a protective shield for our land against erosion without needing any human-made materials. The Future of Bamboo Usage Innovative Textiles Bamboo trees offer a multitude of uses, especially in the creation of innovative textiles. The fibers extracted from bamboo are instrumental in producing soft and luxurious textiles such as towels and bedding. These materials are not only exceptionally comfortable but also possess natural antibacterial properties, making them an ideal choice for personal and household use. For example, bamboo towels are highly absorbent and gentle on the skin, providing a superior experience compared to traditional cotton towels. Moreover, the demand for sustainable fabric options has surged in recent years due to increasing environmental awareness. As a result, bamboo textiles have garnered significant attention as they align with this eco-friendly trend. Their cultivation requires minimal water and no pesticides or herbicides, marking them as an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional textile production methods. These innovative textiles play a crucial role in promoting sustainability across various industries including fashion and home goods. By incorporating bamboo fibers into their products, companies contribute to reducing the ecological footprint associated with textile manufacturing while meeting consumer preferences for environmentally friendly choices. Green Technology Integration Another key area where bamboo trees find extensive application is within green technology integration. Bamboo-based composites serve as essential components in green building materials such as panels and boards used for construction purposes. These composites harness the plant's exceptional strength-to-weight ratio along with its flexibility, making them invaluable assets for creating sturdy yet lightweight structures. Furthermore, the versatility of bamboo aligns perfectly with sustainable technology applications across different sectors ranging from architecture to industrial design. Its ability to grow rapidly without requiring replanting makes it an attractive resource for integrating into various technological innovations aimed at minimizing environmental impact. In practical terms, green technologies leverage bamboo's eco-friendly attributes by utilizing it as a raw material for creating energy-efficient products like bicycles made from bamboo frames or even electronic devices featuring casings constructed from sustainable bamboo-based composites. Conclusion Bamboo is truly a remarkable resource with a wide range of uses, from construction and household products to food, medicine, and even renewable energy. Its versatility and sustainability make it a valuable asset in various industries, offering eco-friendly solutions and reducing environmental impact. As we continue to explore the potential of bamboo, it's essential to support sustainable cultivation practices and innovative applications. Embracing bamboo in our daily lives can contribute to a greener future, promoting biodiversity and mitigating climate change. © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

OUR PARTNERS Institut Supérieur de Gestion des Entreprises Ministère des Finances, du Budget et de la Planification Économique Agence de développement du Burundi Université du Burundi COMESA © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

COLLABORATION STRATEGY In 2018, BNBRC entered into a strategic collaboration with a Chinese technical partner to conduct an experimental cultivation project for clumping bamboo. Under this partnership, the technical provider supplied high-quality bamboo species and professional planting expertise to ensure the successful implementation of the project. CULTIVATION Through scientific cultivation management and technical guidance, the trial planting zone successfully yielded clumping bamboo well-adapted to the local environment, demonstrating its growth potential and economic value in the region. This initiative not only accumulated valuable experience in bamboo cultivation but also laid a solid foundation for future large-scale promotion and industrial development. FUTURE Moving forward, we will continue to strengthen technical cooperation, optimize cultivation methods, and explore the applications of clumping bamboo in ecological restoration, construction materials, and other fields, driving innovation in sustainable development and green economic models. PARTNER We welcome opportunities to establish strategic partnerships with organizations committed to advancing bamboo research and development initiatives. Our team is dedicated to cultivating collaborative relationships that drive innovation in sustainable bamboo applications. Please contact by filling out the form below. Click to fill out the form © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

Bamboo, from Traditional Crafts to Contemporary Design and Architecture Author：Esteve-Sendra Chele https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2012.08.239 Abstract Discover bamboo and its wide variety of uses from food to furniture. Bamboo is a traditionally cultivated plant and used on continents and in different cultures. New technologies combined with traditional techniques awaken both the creator and the user with a spirit of inspiration and innovation by applying bamboo’s practical qualities to the challenge of sustainability. In many cases, designers work in collaboration with artisans, creating different products, changing lifestyles and applying new technologies to create a world with sustainable products in an ecologically supportive way as social design. 1. Sustainable design: renewable fibers. Today global trends allow the environment and world economic power to take stock for the benefit of our planet. This extends the interest in natural materials who supply the wood, like bamboo and other plant fibers that regenerate much faster than traditional woods. Companies increasingly bet on the use of natural fibers in an attempt to be "green", which increases their philosophical points of view about "eco". According to the Brundtland Report: "Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It contains within it two key concepts: first, the concept of needs, in particular the essential needs of the world's poor, to which overriding priority should be given; and second, the idea of limitations imposed by the state of technology and social organization on the environment's ability to meet present and future needs." 2. Bamboo, rattan, wicker and other materials with similar characteristics. 2.1. Bamboo; common name, is a giant grass the group of plants belonging to the family of herbaceous grasses, which are characterized by long stems and woody shrubs that develop stems (culms) of large diameter and size. According to the Colombian architect Simon Velez, " G. Angustifolia bamboo is a renewable resource in the areas of construction and infrastructure, which is used structurally in homes and other buildings. With a grade above the normal stress, similar to steel and concrete in compression. It can be used for furniture, carpets, paneling, flooring, partitions, plumbing, roof, structure and forms, among many others." Bamboo furthermore is a food and alternative medicine. Since ancient times, bamboo has been a food for the peoples of East and for animals. Bamboo leaves have a high nutritional value and is also food for grazing, favorite food of elephants. In the human diet, the tender shoots are used in certain species and seeds. In India, they eat the stems of some flowers. In the field of natural medicine is beneficial for bones and skin. 2.2. Rattan or Rota (from Malay rotan) is the common name for some species native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Australia. They have slender stems 2-5 cm diameter with long internodes between the leaves. They are superficially similar to bamboo, but distinct in that the stems (Malacca) are solid rather than hollow, and they need some support, while bamboo can grow independently often at great heights without breaking . 2.3. Wicker, is a hard vegetal tissue fiber that comes from a family of shrub willows (genus Salix, Salix viminalis first and Salix fragilis and Salix purpurea), is knitted to create furniture, baskets and other useful objects. Other renewable fibers are abaca, coir, yute, sisal and kenaf or cannabis. 3. Bamboo: innovation and sustainability from our grandmothers shopping basket to computer case. The designers are investigating the capacities offered by natural fibers like bamboo in the development of products of high quality and innovation. They use bamboo in intensive technologies generating new products. Bamboo has been, in some cases associated to negative connotations. It is thought that bamboo products are, for example, of poor quality, cheap, rustic or neglected, or used to create vulgar handcrafts. The expectations of this material are increasing considering the wide possibilities of industrial processing of bamboo, seeking the profit of markets and the many opportunities in which traditional designs made by artisans can coexist with current trends. Industry can define new concepts in design and can explore innovative processing techniques. The artisans have had to frequently review and update their designs to meet the current demands of consumers. It is the designer of the product that is often due to update the design and its incursion in the field of social design. 3.1. Social design. In this new "social" way to address the future of crafts, fair commerce stores appear, as Oxfam, SKIP (Supporting Kids In Peru) and initiatives such as Project Kala derived from the collaboration of the Spanish textile company Nanimarquina with Care & Fair Association, who are carrying out the disclosure and the redesign of the main local crafts in the places where they operate. Similarly, projects such as a bank of designs created by Spanish designer and Professor Manuel Bañó and his team have been very successful in relation to these initiatives. From www.freedesignbank.org , craftsmen access for free to a platform where selected objects, created and designed by volunteers Spanish designers as a way of working with disadvantaged artisans from southern countries of Africa. Are marketed through the fair trade (Fair Trade), and has developed a project with more than 200 student volunteers since 1998. Another project, developed in Ghana and Kenya (Africa) is the Byke Project Bamboo as a sustainable transport alternative. Led by American designer Craig Calfee, bicycle Bamboosero is an example of the new products developed with bamboo. The production of bicycles in Ghana, in collaboration with local artisans, aims to open shops for export worldwide. The Byke Project Bamboo and the Earth Institute at Columbia University (USA) have studied the industrial manufacture of bicycles on a large scale in the above mentioned two populations of Ghana and Kenya. The flexibility of the material makes it suitable for absorbing shock which occurs in the road. In farming communities producing bamboo, these initiatives are proving to be very beneficial to the consumer as well as for farmers, and can create a responsible production and motivate companies to develop products of push technology. The role of farmers and artisans is not limited only to crop management, harvesting and transport, but to the influence on the final manufacture of bamboo products. The use of bamboo has spread to other applications such as computer Bamboo laptop designed for Asus Ecobook or BoxWave's case for the iPhone. These are products that follow the current market trends to satisfy a demanding and extremely selective consumer, the so called ‘hyper consumers’, which are collectors of experiences that create new emotional and hedonistic experiences, words uttered by the French philosopher and sociologist Gilles Lipovetsky. Another curious application is the production of motorcycle helmets designed by the French Company Roof. This is the first bamboo fiber hull, which has successfully passed the safety requirements required by the Standard E22-05, certification required for marketing in Europe. Undoubtedly, this product made with 100% sustainable natural fibers has among its properties that is derived from an unlimited source on which can be applied multiple mechanical possibilities of the material. Are also the manufactured bamboo fiber textiles for use in bedding, underwear and towels, in which bamboo is often mixed with other fibers such as cotton or polyester to achieve greater long lasting value. As the spinning process allows different textures, his touch is becoming increasingly soft even almost like silk; in comparison with cotton, which is also soft, we can say that bamboo is significantly softer. Bamboo is also used for medical and cosmetic products and for the container. It is also used for baby diapers made from bamboo, rayon, and its interior handmade and organic velvet-textured waterproof and breathable whose always-dry effect on baby's skin. Other applications have been inspired by bamboo furniture from the Ming dynasty, for example, spectacle frames. Designed with clean lines in remembrance of another time and true to the philosophy of order and minimalism are very light, and combine the aesthetics, craftsmanship and function. Figures 1, 2, 3. Upper right: Bamboo Spectacle Frames Inspired by Chinese Ming Dynasty Furniture. Source: Designboom. Middle; Motorcycle helmet, the R06 Roof, which consists of a shell constructed entirely from bamboo fiber. Source: Roof brand. Upper left: Bicycle Bamboosero designed by Craig Calfee. Source: Bamboosero. 3.2. Architecture and urbanisms applications. Among the architectural and urbanisms applications, we have the T4 Terminal (NAT) Barajas Airport (Madrid, Spain) is one of the most important construction projects in the world made of bamboo because it has an area of 1.2 million square meters. Designed by architect Richard Rogers Partnership (England) and Estudio Lamela (Spain), this project makes exemplary use of the shock absorbers of light. Bamboo is an excellent material when confronted with the vibrations of an earthquake: light, strong, rigid and elastic at the same time, making it ideal in construction. In the urban plan and outstanding example of architectural use of bamboo were the eleven buildings conjoining the organization INBAR (International Network for Bamboo and Rattan) for the Shanghai Expo 2010 (China), Especially the German Chinese House. The German Chinese House was the result of a scope of cooperation between Germany and China, the project Gemeinsan Bewegung (Forward Together), which aims to promote mutual understanding as a basis for successful cooperation to reinforce the image of Germany as a future-oriented country. The German Chinese House is not only the highlight of the architecture of the Shanghai Expo 2010, but also a pioneering example of the construction made from natural materials. It is a unique example of building with a two storey structure of bamboo in the world exhibition. The building is a very significant sustainable building. The project was developed by the designer and installation artist Markus Heinsdorff. Figures 4, 5, 6. Upper right: Terminal (NAT) Barajas Airport (Madrid, Spain). Source: Photographs by the author. August 2011. Middle; German Chinese House. General view. Source: Photographs by the author. September 2010. Upper left: The Spanish Pavilion, made by rattan, wicker and bamboo. Source: Photographs by the author. September 2010. Another highlight of the Shanghai Expo 2010 was the Spanish pavilion, known as the "Spanish basket." The project team was the study of Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue EMBT Architects, located in Barcelona and was founded by the Catalan architect Enric Miralles (1955-2000) and architect Benedetta Tagliabue, from Milan. The Spanish pavilion in its construction and content, was projected with the slogan: "From the city of our fathers to the city of our children." It offered a spectacular look that combines the latest technology with the use that was made in it, on a scale never seen before of one traditional material such as bamboo, wicker and rattan, with which it was completely covered its facade. Since the beginning of the project, raised the proposal to use these materials in the architecture of the Pavilion. In Tagliabue's words: "We found something very Spanish, but we faced with something new. Now we are discovering organic materials and natural heritage of wicker products use traditions of both countries, because in China there is a strong tradition of basketry. " These cutting-edge applications provide great versatility to the uses of bamboo, which added to his contribution in the field of social design place it at an alternative replacement for wood and often with other properties that place it in an advantageous position. 4. Conclusions If you want to plan for a year. Then plant seeds ... If you want to plan for 10 years. Then plant trees ... But ... if you want to make plans for 100 years. Then plant bamboo An old Chinese proverb 510 BC Acknowledgements To my parents, Professor Yongqi Lou, Professor José Antonio Ruíz Depin and the next bamboo Generations. References Jaramillo Suarez, Diego León y Sanclemente Manrique, Ana Gisella. Tesis: Estudio de uniones en guadua con ángulo de inclinación entre elementos. Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Facultad de Ingeniería. 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Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.

History Established in 2017 under the auspices of ISABU (Institut des Sciences Agronomiques du Burundi), the Burundi Bamboo Research Centre emerged from a joint initiative between local agroforestry experts and regional partners concerned with soil erosion, deforestation, and rural livelihoods. Located near the lush hills of Bujumbura Province, the centre’s experimental bamboo research plot was founded with the aim of researching introduced bamboo species suitable for highland and mid-altitude zones. Over time, it evolved into a regional hub for innovation in bamboo-based agroforestry, sustainable construction materials, and smallholder income generation. The centre’s early breakthroughs included the successful propagation of drought-resistant bamboo varieties and the training of several rural cooperatives in bamboo cultivation, harvesting, processing, and product development. Although initially modest in scope, by 2024 the centre had positioned Burundi as a quiet leader in East Africa’s emerging bamboo economy, with ISABU integrating its findings into broader national reforestation and climate resilience strategies. © BNBRC Burundi National Bamboo Research Center is dedicated to the sustainable development, conservation, and utilization of bamboo resources in Burundi. Our work spans scientific research, community education, and the promotion of bamboo-based technologies that support ecological balance and economic development. The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice.