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When it comes to choosing sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics, bamboo is becoming increasingly popular. Not only is it a rapidly renewable resource, but it also has numerous environmental benefits compared to other traditional materials like cotton. In this article, we will explore why bamboo fabrics are more eco-friendly and sustainable than other options.
Absorbs CO2 and releases oxygen
One of the most significant environmental benefits of bamboo is its ability to absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and release oxygen. In fact, bamboo forests release 35% more oxygen than the same area of hardwood trees. This makes bamboo forests crucial in combating climate change, as they remove a substantial amount of CO2 from the atmosphere.
Bamboo stores CO2
Bamboo also stores two-thirds of the CO2 it removes from the atmosphere in its roots and soil. This is in stark contrast to cotton plants, which are dug up or killed after harvest, releasing the CO2 back into the atmosphere. Therefore, bamboo is an excellent carbon sink, helping to combat climate change.
No pesticides or fertilizers
Bamboo is incredibly resilient and can grow in harsh conditions without the need for chemical fertilizers or pesticides. This makes it a much safer and more environmentally friendly option compared to cotton, which requires intensive agricultural practices, leading to water pollution and other environmental problems.
Grows rapidly
Bamboo is the fastest growing crop in the world, with some species growing up to 1 meter a day. It reaches maturity in 3 to 5 years, compared to 40 years for hardwood timber, making it a highly sustainable and eco-friendly way to produce large quantities of material.
Reduced space
Bamboo is incredibly dense, meaning it requires less space to produce high crop yields. In fact, it produces the same volume of material as cotton from under 10% of the land. Therefore, bamboo is an ideal crop for areas with limited agricultural land.
Bamboo is a grass
Bamboo is a type of grass, which means it can be cut back without killing the plant. This prevents soil erosion and degradation, which is often associated with cotton harvesting. Therefore, bamboo is an excellent option for sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.
Less maintenance, less machinery
Bamboo can thrive in almost any environment and requires less machinery to maintain it, resulting in fewer CO2 emissions. Unlike cotton, which requires intensive irrigation, fertilization, and pesticide use, bamboo needs very little maintenance, making it a low-impact crop.
Reduced water consumption
Bamboo requires much less water than cotton, placing less risk on local populations that grow the crop. Cotton is a thirsty crop that’s often linked with drought and water shortages. Therefore, bamboo is an excellent option for areas with limited water resources.
Nothing is wasted
Every part of the bamboo plant can be used to make a variety of products, making it a highly sustainable and eco-friendly crop. Nothing goes to waste, and it is an excellent example of a circular economy.
Bamboo is biodegradable
Organic bamboo clothing is 100% biodegradable, just like a bamboo plant. Pure bamboo can take around a year to biodegrade, but it is important to ensure that it hasn’t been chemically treated or dyed. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Improves soil quality
Bamboo helps improve soil quality, reclaiming land that would otherwise be unproductive. This is the opposite of cotton, which leaves soil depleted and low in nutrients after intensive agricultural practices.
SQN Sport uses bamboo fabrics in our fleece and jersey. It is very soft, comfortable, and wears very well.
