How can Bamboo Products Help Reduce Landfill?
Last updated on August 16th, 2023 at 04:23 pm
‘The planet is our greatest gift; let’s unite to do all we can to protect it’
Reducing landfills is one of our biggest environmental challenges, with around 14 million tonnes of UK waste being sent to landfill sites annually. Contributing to that figure is 7 million mattresses, with one in four people disposing of their mattress after only four years. There are efforts we can take to get this number down and create a more sustainable world. Let’s look at the part bamboo products can play in this and how we can work together to protect our planet.
What is a landfill?
A landfill can go under many other names, from a rubbish dump to a dumping ground. Which, effectively, is what it is. An area of land that is used to dump or bury rubbish. If you have wondered where your household trash goes after throwing it away, much of it will go to a landfill. Although many modern landfill sites are designed to prevent the transmission of toxic gases as the waste decomposes, leaks do happen. Methane is a poisonous greenhouse gas that can harm the environment and human health. Methane is a prime contributor to ozone formation, which can cause respiratory problems and even death. This can expose surrounding neighbourhoods of toxic landfills to such health risks. The good news is there are ways we can make waste disposal more environmentally friendly and reduce the effects of landfills. Choosing to recycle, switching to businesses with a sustainable production process, and using biodegradable products like bamboo can make a big difference.
How does bamboo help the environment?
Let’s take a look at what makes bamboo products a better choice for the environment.
Bamboo is a renewable resource
Growing up to 4 feet a day and relying on little more than sunshine and water, bamboo is one of the world’s most renewable resources. It can be harvested sustainably every 3- 5 years, reducing the 1 million acres of forests lost weekly to deforestation.Bamboo is biodegradable
Bamboo can decompose within 2-6 months, depending on the product and production process. The plant breaks down easily and quickly, returning to nature and reducing its impact on landfills and our environment.
Bamboo is incredibly versatile
From the softest bedding, and luxury handbags to bicycles bamboo fibres are incredibly versatile. This has inspired many leading brands to utilise the resource to replace less environmentally friendly materials such as plastic. Choosing bamboo products and natural materials is an easy way to help protect the planet and live a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Bamboo is ultra-durable
Reducing waste at source is one of the number one ways we can lower our carbon footprint. Bamboo fibres and the products they make are ultra-durable. You will not have to dispose of and replace them as often as less natural alternatives. By choosing to recycle, you can ensure that your items do not end up in landfill and help create a greener world.
Bamboo absorbs greenhouse gases
The toxic greenhouse gases caused by landfill sites have a devastating impact on global warming. Bamboo is a planet hero; the natural material absorbs enormous amounts of greenhouse gases improving the air quality of our environment. Bamboo rapidly absorbs carbon dioxide. Removing excess amounts of this gas is a crucial way to fight climate change.
What are the advantages of using Bamboo Products?
With climate change pressing on all of our hearts, it can be a challenge to know how to help. While this can be overwhelming, remember small choices make a big difference. Choosing bamboo products at home is a wonderful place to start, and they come with an abundance of benefits for both you and the environment.
Designed to last
The durable fibres of the plant create exceptional products you can rely on to last. This helps reduce the disposal and replacement of items, which can contribute to landfills.Chemical-free
Bamboo products are organic, vegan and chemical-free, retaining many natural properties. When choosing brands, ensure they are certified with OTEX 100 and that their production process is transparent and eco-friendly.
Improve air quality
They can improve the air quality of your home and our environment. Bamboo is moisture-wicking, preventing the build-up of sweat and bacteria (making it an especially good choice for bedtime).Environmentally friendly
The world’s natural resources are depleting at a rapid rate. The more we can rely on renewable resources will help reduce this figure. Bamboo products are one of the most environmentally friendly choices you can make. The lifecycle of bamboo products has minimum impact on our planet from forest to decomposition.
Natural benefits
The Bamboo fabric used to make our soft, smooth bedding, fluffy duvets and breathable mattresses retains many natural benefits. The material is hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin and allergies. The breathable fibres are thermoregulating, regulating body temperature, making them perfect for every season. This means cosy winters and cool summer nights without replacing your bedding.
Ways to incorporate bamboo products into daily life
While climate change will not go away overnight, there are ways we can make a difference. From choosing natural materials, shopping with sustainable businesses and making it a priority to recycle, a healthier environment is within reach. Incorporating bamboo products into your lifestyle is easy with a little awareness.
Start with making a list of all the products that can be replaced with bamboo alternatives. Bamboo can be used for many of your most loved lifestyle items from pj’s, and pillows to your toothbrush. When they need replacing, you can slowly introduce more of the natural fabric into your home, improving your health, lowering your carbon footprint and helping to protect the environment.
Creating a better world
Reducing landfill is one step towards creating a better world, a challenge we continue to take on together… One small choice at a time.
