As a planet, we need to decrease the amount of plastic we use very quickly! This is common knowledge these days but how many of us have put that thought into practice? Not enough, is the short answer. Whether that’s due to misunderstanding of the issues or a lack of knowledge on what to replace plastic with, we are here to provide you with some practical solutions, as well as insights on why we believe acting now to consciously make sustainable choices is the way forward.
As a company who strives to be a driving force in sustainable living, we began our journey by exploring many different options. This eventually led us to the world of bamboo. We know there are a number of sustainable options to choose from, which we can’t wait to share with you in the future but first we are starting with bamboo as this was the initial alternative that caught our eye. So “Why Bamboo?”
I know you’re all sat there at home wondering “why bamboo? What makes bamboo so special? Why are you stealing Panda’s food? I love Panda’s! Do you not like Panda’s?”. Well, it’s safe to say we also love panda’s and the last thing we would want to do is put more stress on their existence. But back to the point, why have we decided bamboo is the way forward, for now?
Firstly, and most importantly, bamboo is biodegradable, this means it breaks down naturally and doesn’t take 400+ years like plastics. This makes it an obvious choice to start our journey. Quick note - the difference between biodegradable and composting is the pace at which the item breaks down, and the conditions which are set. So that answers your first question!
Now to get onto how it may or may not affect pandas. Bamboo actually takes between 5-10 years to reach its maturity and although this seems a lot in human years, but in ‘tree’ years this is nothing! It is actually known as the ‘World’s Fastest Growing Plant’. Saying this, if you were to try and grow one yourself (climate permitted), it has a 60-day growth cycle to reach its maximum height! Lord, I wish I could grow that fast, or even at all for that matter! This quick turnaround allows for more crops to be harvested thus leading to more products being made. Now, imagine how long it would take if we were using oak wood.... Now you can see why, not only does it not affect pandas, but also why pandas are a little on the chubby side. Imagine if us humans had a doughnut plant that took 60-days to grow (the dream, right?).
Bamboo, also doesn’t need any fertiliser or chemical pesticides to grow which is a win-win for everyone, especially the planet! Its durability means it can be shaped or even woven into anything you can think of, from our very own products at de terra. to even underwear! I have some myself!
Due to its fast-growing rate, durability and lack of toxic chemicals used, it makes for a fantastic and possibly world leading force into a sustainable future.
So now you know this much about bamboo, will it be your choice to begin your journey? If the answer is yes to that question, then you’re in the right place.
We hope you choose us, but even if you don’t, thank you for making a change putting the planet first.
