Bamboo is a versatile material that is a viable alternative to timber in many situations, including internal joinery for houses and offices.  Some facts on bamboo are below. Bamboo: • Is a type of grass and is generally considered to be pest resistant, can grow in poor soils and in comparison to other crops, requires little water. • Is the world’s fastest growing plant and can grow up to 30cm a day or more in the right conditions during a fast growth spurt. • Has a short growth cycle – it can be harvested in 3-5 years versus 10-100 years for most softwoods and hardwoods.  Unlike softwoods and hardwoods, bamboo is capable of complete regeneration without the need to replant. • Is a strong, stable and durable resource. What do other people say about bamboo? “Consider bamboo alternatives when purchasing items … it's readily renewable, sustainable and still seems to have a lot less environmental impact than chemical-ridden crops, destruction of old growth forests and petroleum-derived materials.” http://www.greenlivingtips.com/articles/191/1/Uses-of-Bamboo.html Michael Bloch Green Living Tips.com Green Living Tips is an online resource powered by renewable energy offering a wide variety of earth friendly tips, green guides, advice and environment related news to help consumers and business reduce costs, consumption and environmental impact . “Bamboo is one of the most eco-friendly building materials there is—it's sturdy and solid, yet it grows extremely fast and is therefore rapidly renewable.  Plus, it has a stark, elegance that will likely blend into the decor of your home. So it’s really no wonder we're seeing more and more bamboo products enter the marketplace—which is good news for eco-enthusiasts everywhere.” http://planetgreen.discovery.com/home-garden/remeber-bamboo.html
“Bamboo is startlingly beautiful, stronger than steel in tension, stronger than concrete in compression and more stable than red oak. A renewable resource - its unique appearance, durability and environmentally friendly nature ensures its place among the world's select hardwoods."  Keren Dattner of Nicholas Dattner and Co. Photo shows example of a kitchen built from solid bamboo plywood. Design: Brett Lowe - Architect. Joinery: Select Custom Joinery. Photography: John Tucker.