Abstract:
Bamboo is one of the world’s fastest growing plants with some species
reportedly reaching up to 1.2 m per day. Bamboo provides good economic
and ecological values. Because of its fast growth, bamboo has a higher rate
of carbon sequestration than most plantation trees species. Bamboo
regulates the quantity and quality of water which are essential characteristics
for managing watersheds. Using its dense root and rhizome systems,
bamboo can protect water catchments and prevent soil erosion especially in
the mountainous areas. Thus for people living in fragile areas such as those
susceptible to soil erosion and landslides/mudslides, bamboo planting is
recommendable. It is also known to absorb pollutants such as excess
nitrogen and heavy metals from the soil.