Dear Reader,
It has been a while since BAMOON last published a paper in its editorials. The young company has been busy researching, executing, testing, and evolving around bamboo.
On World Environment Day, June 5th, Bamoon initiated a clean-up action in which parks were cleaned by a team of convinced and dedicated people who wanted to contribute. Since this action was a heartfelt initiative, it was also examined from a scientific perspective, which is addressed below.
Public spaces such as parks appear to be places of rest and retreat. Nevertheless, studies and surveys in Europe show that only around 10 % of streets and parks in one national survey were completely litter-free, with the rest showing some presence of litter in public areas, including parks.
The core question of this paper addresses the consequences of the materials we release into the earth and ecological cycles. Can material choice bring about long-term, decisive change?
For plastics, composite materials, and coated materials, the decomposition period is approximately 100–500 years. No true decomposition takes place; instead, fragmentation occurs in the form of microplastics. This blocks ecological cycles and their natural rhythms. As a result, these materials outlive several generations: generations of humans, animals, and nature that are given no choice but to endure their presence.
Bamboo, as an organic, plant-based material, is recognized as natural by soil organisms and therefore integrates into existing ecosystems. It blends in and reintegrates itself. Its return to the soil is 3–10× faster than that of synthetic materials. Moreover, its decomposition is not a burden but a return of nutrients. Bamboo is therefore one of the materials capable of closing the ecological loop.
This results in significant differences depending on which materials are released onto green or public spaces and the footprint they leave behind for animals, humans, and overall well-being. Bamboo turns back to nature and says, “Hello, I’m back,” whereas synthetic materials grin and say, “I’ll stay here for years.” Notably, without providing any benefit or positive contribution.
Material choice is ultimately a central decision for the future. Bamboo is a material that can break these blockages within ecological cycles. Therefore let us leave materials on the ground that will do well for the next generations.
In everlasting regards,
Maria
