BioMatNet Item: FAIR-CT96-1747

FAIR-CT96-1747
Bamboo for Europe

Contacts
Further Information

	Type of Project	Shared Cost
	Contract No	FAIR-CT96-1747
	Total Cost	1,237,000 ECU
	EC Contribution	830,000 ECU
	Start Date	01/12/1996
	Duration	36 Months

Bamboo for Europe

Objectives

Bamboo is a plant with remarkable properties and plays an important role in the daily life of about 2.2 billion people mainly in Asia. Bamboos are endemic in all parts of the world except in Europe where they did not survive the last glacial period. It is estimated that 1200 species are spread over the world. The total area represents about 18 millions of hectares with 3 millions in China and 8 millions in India. The interest in bamboo has increased worldwide and (since 1980) numerous international meetings are organised on an annual basis.

Since the first introduction of bamboo in Europe (1827), about 400 different genotypes have been imported. With suitable management procedures, bamboo can produce an average of 10-15 tons/ha. dry biomass annually. In the South and North America, extensive trials have been implemented allowing the study of important aspects such as mechanical harvesting.

Technical Approach

The main objective is to solve pending questions regarding industrial production and transformation of bamboo in Europe. Nine partners from 5 European countries have taken up this challenge, and three independent experts will assist in resolving problems as they occur.

The research is divided into two work packages covering 13 tasks:

Work Package 1: is coordinated by Oprins Plant (Belgium) and aims at developing technologies for mass production at low cost, the development of silvicultural methods and at the development of mechanical harvesting and post-harvesting technologies. The Oprins group produces millions of bamboos every year worldwide, notably via tissue culture technology. For the present proposal, a group of 10 species have been selected for planting experiments in four European areas: two in North Portugal, one in the north of Spain and one in Belgium.

Work Package II: is coordinated by Cobelgal (Portugal) and aims to develop know how and technologies for transformation of bamboo, and to determine niche markets in Europe. Emphasis is placed on laminated products and construction materials for low cost housing.

Results to Date

At the end of the second year, four industrial products are under evaluation, two others have been imported from Asia and are compared with similar European products.
10 bamboo species have been tested in four trials.
7 bamboo species produced in vitro have been acclimatised in South Portugal.
Several events have been organised for the promotion of the project.

Phyllostachys aureosulcata f. spectabilis (Bambus-Centrum Deutschland)

Contacts

Coordinator

Joris DE VOS / Fitotec (Cobelgal) PORTUGAL

EC Scientific Officer

Adelmo MOREALE / European Commission DG VI Agriculture BELGIUM

Participant