Our Commitment to Research, Since 2012
Investigating Production and Value Chains
Sustainable Alternative Fiber Initiative
Investigating Production and Value Chains
In 2012, we engaged NCSU (Dept. of Paper & Pulp Sciences) to evaluate the feasibility of using timber bamboo (purpose grown in the Southeast) to mix with loblolly pine for pulp and paper production.
Our research trip to India (2014) brought us to a bamboo tissue culture lab as well as working farms, highlighting key elements of a functional bamboo industry including propagation, planting, harvesting, and distribution.
We were the first to plant a 40 acre timber bamboo research farm in 2013 (Eastern NC) with key timber bamboo species of the Genus Phyllostachys, including Henon, Rubro, Bambusoides, Moso of the North, and Vivax.
Tissue Culture Tech
Sustainable Alternative Fiber Initiative
Investigating Production and Value Chains
Since 2019, through our partnered tissue culture laboratory, we have funded the micro-tissue propagation of Phyllostachys Nigra 'Henon Giant Grey Timber' and are now the largest bamboo plant stock provider in Eastern North Carolina. We compared Henon to other timber bamboos over time and selected Henon as the focus, for its superior characteristics, such as vigor, thick walled straight poles, high yields, and cold tolerance as well as best growing performance to our Southeastern climate. We anticipated the flowering of this variety and used proprietary in vitro techniques to reset the cycle, so that our Henon starts may grow for a century before flowering again, despite the current gregarious event. This was very important as P. Nigra Henon groves do not produce viable seeds and are at risk of dying.
Sustainable Alternative Fiber Initiative
Sustainable Alternative Fiber Initiative
Sustainable Alternative Fiber Initiative
We remain a proud sponsor of the NC State University SAFI Consortium, which is investigating the potential of 5 US grown, non-wood fibers. Our timber bamboo is a great sustainable hardwood fiber alternative option for reducing our dependence on harvesting natural forests for single use paper tissue and container board products. Some of the worlds largest paper companies are members of the consortium and they all recognize that bamboo is the most widely used non-wood fiber in the world currently. Our goal is to establish America's largest timber bamboo fiber value chain in the Southeast. More on this to come.
Soil Lab
Pulverization Research
Sustainable Alternative Fiber Initiative
We encourage natural, biological growing methods on our bamboo farms and in our nurseries. Our research seeks to understand the microorganisms that make up the bamboo microbiome and influence everything from soil structure and nutrient cycling, adaptation to stress, and growth performance. We perform soil microbiology assessments in order to understand these biotic factors and conditions driving the health of our timber bamboo.
Pulverization Research
Pulverization Research
Pulverization Research
Our research into bamboo pulverization has revealed that bamboo fiber quality differs from traditional woods, requiring specialized equipment for efficient chipping, pulverization, and refinement. To meet this challenge, we've established a processing facility in Shelby, NC. This marks a pivotal step in the journey of domestic bamboo biomass processing, enabling us to transform locally-sourced bamboo into high-quality materials. Our Shelby facility opens up exciting new markets for bamboo biomass across the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Georgia, supporting regional economies and advancing sustainable practices.
Bioplastics
Pulverization Research
Pulverization Research
In 2024, our work led to a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) supply agreement with PlantSwitch, a leader in the bioplastics industry. We supply high-quality bamboo powder derived from grove thinning for use in manufacturing compostable cutlery. Our bamboo powder enhances the durability and biodegradability of bioplastic products. This development aligns with our mission to reduce waste from grove removals, & promote circular economy practices. Through this collaboration, we aim to drive the bioplastics market forward, showcasing bamboo in eco-friendly, high-performance products.
Revolutionizing Agriculture with National Bamboo
Welcome to National Bamboo Agricultural Services
At National Bamboo, we believe that sustainable agriculture is the key to a healthy planet and a prosperous future. That's why we offer a wide range of services that promote sustainable bamboo agriforestry practices, from soil building, intercropping, selective harvesting to bio-remediation and integrated pest management. Our expert team has years of experience in the industry and is dedicated to helping you achieve your sustainability goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you improve your farm's environmental impact.
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