Bamboo Coal Anyone?

Teri Ann Renee Paisley, Gleaner Online Writer

The unmistakable arch of bamboos that line the road of Holland Bamboo Avenue on the way to St. Elizabeth has become a cultural landmark that has been captured in film, canvas and poetry.

The bamboos have a graceful beauty that belies its resilience. Bamboo has been used to make a wide range of products from jewelry boxes and cooking utensils to shoes but now there has been an introduction of a new product on the market featuring this remarkable plant.

The new product is bamboo coal, and it has been touted as a replacement for the currently popular timber coal. I am excited at the prospect of new products being experimented with as it certainly suggests that despite the economic hardship there is hope.
While I am not suggesting that our beloved bamboo landmark be robbed to provide us with a cheaper energy source there are many idle lands where bamboo can be harvested and it certainly will give our trees a well needed break.

Will consumers be attracted to the new product?

Well the information that I read in The Gleaner dated February 27,2013 made me think that it certainly will have a lot of appeal to consumers. According to the article, bamboo coal is easier to light, cooks the food more quickly, releases less smoke and does not alter the taste of food. It’s important to note that bamboo coal has vinegar as its byproduct instead of anything that will harm the environment.

Our environment certainly does not have an unending supply of resources so we should always be ready for ways to conserve.

Will it save money?

It would have been really good if it was cheaper than its alternative timber coal. Unfortunately it is about the same price as its counterpart. However, if it does get heated quickly, then the consumer will get his money’s worth. A 2.2kg or (5 lb) bag is sold for $195.00 to $257.00.

So will you be buying bamboo coal?

It is currently being sold at only two locations, Lee’s Food Fair and General Stores. Let me hear from you!

Click here to read the rest of the article
http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20130227/business/business7.html

Tags: environment, farmers