Bamboo is Not Always “Eco-Friendly” to Use in Green Projects – Is Using Bamboo a Boo-Boo?

Bamboo is Not Always “Eco-Friendly” to Use in Green Projects – Is Using Bamboo a Boo-Boo?
Many San Francisco homes are remodeling with bamboo for flooring and paneling, among other innovative uses. We are told that all bamboo is “eco friendly” and an excellent choice to consider in remodeling projects, new building projects and a variety of other uses. The problem is that MANY bamboo sources from China and other nations are harvesting bamboo at under 5 years in age. The bamboo shoots under 5 years of age are not sturdy enough for anything other than basket weaving or craft projects! Certainly this young bamboo will not wear well as flooring or even as paneling on a wall.