Bamboo Revolution #1

Aside from being the most important component of the Panda diet (second only to frozen fruits, our favorite dessert), bamboo is one of the fastest growing woody plants in the world. There are >1000 species of bamboo, and it is an important plant both economically and culturally. Bamboo's long life makes it a Chinese symbol of longevity, while in India it is a symbol of friendship. Bamboo forests sometimes surround shrines as part of a sacred barrier against evil; many Buddhist temples also have bamboo groves.

Bamboo is important in modern economical development as well. This is (hopefully) the first post in a series on the importance of bamboo to the modern world.

Outside of Lusaka, Zambia, local craftsman build handmade bikes out of locally-grown bamboo. The company, named Zambikes, is owned by two Californians and two Zambians. Santa-Cruz-based bike designer Craig Calfee designed and built prototype experimental bikes using bamboo, and his tests suggested that bamboo's strength and lightness make it a great substitute for metal, and it has excellent vibration-dampening properties. These bikes are sold in the US at a cost of ~$500 for the frame and ~$900 for the entire bike. I highly suggest you look into this company if you are seeking to purchase a bike. Buying a Zambike helps support a developing nation, and is good karma for the global community.