Bamboo Fabric, An Eco-Friendly Resource Since The Shang Dynasty!

Bamboo has become recognized for its fast growth and ability to withstand challenges, making it a sustainable and environmentally friendly option.

As early as the Shang Dynasty (16th-11th century B.C), bamboo was already used in various aspects of ancient Chinese people’s daily lives. It was used for food, clothing, housing, transportation, music instruments and even weapons.

Bamboo use as clothing goes as far back as the first Black people in China considered the people who are probably the first of "any" people in China! Historical written records purport that Black people akin to the Batwa of Central Africa and the people of the Andaman Islands today founded the first dynasties we call them the Diminutive Africoids (small Africans). They survived well into the written historical periods. The presence of Diminutive Africoids ( Chinese historians called "Black" ) populated early southern China during the period of the Three Kingdoms (ca. 250 CE) this is recorded in the book of the Official of the Liang Dynasty (502-556 CE).

The Shang Dynasty (1766-1027 BCE), China’s first dynasty, dating from the 18th to the 11th century BCE, apparently had a Black background, so much so that the conquering Zhou described them as having “Black and oily skin.” Suggesting that like many black cultures moisturizing their skin was a part of their culture! Bronze vessels, such as Le Tigresse are thus an extremely important component to understanding ancient black civilizations and their technological advances like Bamboo cultivation for fabrics. Bamboo fabric is a natural material created from bamboo grass pulp. Bamboo linen is usually lightweight, breathable, and cooler compared to conventional linens. Additionally, it is hypoallergenic, which implies it is gentler and less likely to cause skin irritation. Bamboo garments, such as tops, dresses, and socks, are highly regarded for their softness and long-lasting quality.

The planting method of bamboo is closely linked to its sustainability profile. A properly managed bamboo plantation has the potential to yield significant quantities of renewable material while also preserving natural resources. Effective bamboo farming techniques involve limited use of fertilizers and pesticides, as bamboo is generally resistant to many pests and diseases. Additionally, its rapid growth minimizes the need for water, thus helping to conserve this vital resource.

Despite its sturdy and resilient composition, bamboo is classified as a type of grass. Over thousands of years, it has exhibited impressive adaptability, flourishing in various settings, including mountainous terrains and hot tropical climates. Various bamboo species are present in tropical regions and have earned recognition as a 'miracle plant' among environmental advocates, and for good reason. Its rapid growth and biodegradability play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, positioning it as an excellent eco-friendly option for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

Bamboo has significant agricultural advantages due to its rapid growth rate, making it one of the fastest-growing plants globally. Unlike hardwood trees that take decades to mature, bamboo can be harvested much more quickly. In terms of regrowth, bamboo can be likened to the hare, while hardwood trees are more like the tortoise. When a bamboo stalk is cut down, another quickly grows in its place, contributing to a continuous growth cycle that benefits soil health and helps prevent erosion. Particularly in regions facing water scarcity, bamboo stands out as an excellent choice since it requires far less water to thrive compared to plants such as cotton.

Bamboo plays a crucial role in combatting climate change by absorbing a higher amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere compared to most other plants and trees. Additionally, it releases more oxygen, contributing to a healthier environment. When a single bamboo seedling is planted, it will grow into a clump. For instance, giant tropical bamboo can sequester 2 tons of carbon dioxide within just 7 years, while a hardwood tree takes 40 years to sequester 1 ton. Bamboo's CO2 absorption rate is up to 5 times higher than that of pine.

If 10 million hectares of bamboo were planted on degraded land globally, it is projected that bamboo plants and their products could prevent over 7 gigatons of carbon dioxide emissions within 30 years, equivalent to the emissions saved by more than 300 million electric cars during the same period.

In the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) founded by Kubilai Khan, the Black presence is visible in a number of notable paintings.A favored painting genre of the Yuan is bamboo painting (for example, a painting by Ni Zan). To the proud and secluded Yuan scholars, bamboo itself was a symbol of the true gentleman (it bends but does not break in a strong wind, returning upright), much like the scholar who maintains their integrity no matter how adverse the circumstance is. The first of these paintings by the Yuan court artist Liu Guandao in 1280, now in the National Palace Museum in Taipei, Taiwan, is of a Mongol hunting scene. Specifically, the painting depicts two powerful looking Black men on horseback with Kubilai Khan during a hunt. Kubilai Khan was arguably the most powerful man in the world at the time and the easy posture that these men are depicted in gives one reason to think that that they are more than the Khan’s bodyguards, more than mere soldiers but quite possibly nobles or high officials of the Yuan court.

Bamboo has traditionally been regarded as a representation of authority, monarchy, and distinguished lineage. Bamboo silk carpets have become increasingly favored in modern times due to their opulent texture and environmentally conscious characteristics. Crafted from organic materials, these carpets provide a distinctive combination of strength, comfort, and eco-friendliness. Bamboo silk carpets, alternatively referred to as viscose carpets, are meticulously made from the cellulose fibers derived from bamboo plants. By merging the elegance of silk with the ecological advantages of bamboo, these carpets make a magnificent enhancement to any home environment.

The roots of bamboo silk fabric can be traced back to ancient Black China. In past societies, bamboo silk fabric carried significant cultural importance. This eco-friendly method of fabric production was greatly appreciated in ancient times, reflecting their reverence for nature and preference for durable materials. Moreover, bamboo silk fabric was renowned for its softness, breathability, and hypoallergenic qualities. These characteristics established it as a favored option for garments, linens, and various textile goods. The cultural significance and sustainable methods linked to bamboo silk fabric have bolstered its enduring popularity over time, ensuring its continued appeal in the present day.