Why we love Bamboo - it's sustainability on steroids

Bamboo – the wonder plant?
© Graham and Green

Pandas have known it for years, but the eco world is just starting to wake up to the benefits of bamboo. Probably the most hardworking plant on the planet, it has been described by the LA Times as 'sustainability on steriods.' We find out why this humble plant is whipping the eco world up into a frenzy.

1. Reach for the sky

Bamboo was awarded its impressive 'sustainability on steroids' title by the LA Times thanks to the astonishing rate at which it can grow. Officially the fastest growing plant in the world some growers in tropical climes swear they can hear the plant creaking as it grows. Once harvested the fibres of this wonder plant can then be turned into all manner of products from linens and towels to furniture and home accessories like these handmade bamboo lanterns (£45.50) at Graham and Green.

  • Bamboo Floor Mat

    2. At your feet

    Bamboo is actually a hollow grass, not a wood, so is categorised as a renewable material although when used for flooring it looks very much like a wood laminate. We love the Zen appeal of theis simple bamboo floor mat (£49) from Graham and Green. It adds warmth and character whilst keeping things simple and clutter free. Pared with crisp white floorboards and 1950's furniture it manages to look both modern and retro.

  • Cotton bamboo sateen oxford pillowcase opal

    3. Cotton? It's so last season...

    The fibres of the bamboo plant can also be used to weave a surprisingly soft and silky fabric which is fast becoming a popular and green alternative to cotton. According to artist–couturier Linda Loudermilk, bamboo has 'all the properties that you physically want out of cotton, plus some.' Try this Cotton bamboo blend bedlinen (from £8.40) at House of Fraser for a good nights sleep.

  • Bamboo Soap Dish

    4. Squeaky clean

    The long fibres of bamboo look really striking when used to create home accessories. Scrub up with these super slick Bamboo soap dishes (£9.50) from Abode. Almost too good to hide in the bathroom these little dishes could also be used to store jewellery or keys. Lacquered in a range of zingy contemporary colours with the natural bamboo on show inside they have been really popular since their launch and Abode claim that they have been ethically produced.

  • Santens Bamboo and Cotton Shower Towel - 650g

    5. Eastern elegance

    Bamboo makes a fantastic window covering as the woven bamboo sticks provide a dense enough cover to protect your privacy whilst still letting though small slivers of light. Keep cool with this Eastern style bamboo roll up blind (£9.79) from Argos. Easy to fit, this simple blind can be easily cut to size and simply wiped clean or even vacuumed.

  • Bamboo Strand Woven Carbonised Strand Woven

    6. Pale and interesting

    I love the pared down simplicity of this whitewashed split bamboo two drawer unit (34.29) from Argos. The clean lines of the bamboo sticks keep the unit looking fresh and modern. Perfect for a bathroom, use it to store away all non–essential items and keep your room looking clean and calm.

  • Sugarcane (BAM043) Bamboo

    7. Keep your cool

    The fibers of the bamboo plant are naturally porous and bamboo fabrics are super absorbant, quick drying and naturally antibacterial. So it doesn't take a genius to work out that the fabric is perfect for towels. The Natural Collection are always ahead of the eco game and their new collection of silky soft luxury bath towels are made from 65% bamboo and 35% cotton and have not been bleached with chlorine.

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