The relationship between the Japanese people and bamboo dates back as far as the late Jomon Period. For nearly 3,000 years, bamboo has been deeply rooted in our culture and lifestyle. The importance of bamboo can be seen in the descriptions of its use in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) and Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan). However, due to rapid postwar economic growth and lifestyle changes, bamboo forests have been abandoned in just half a century, causing new environmental problems.
Issues and Impacts Facing Bamboo Forests
Increase in Neglected Bamboo Forests Bamboo forests occupy an important place in the rich natural environment found in Japan. Mie Prefecture is home to a variety of bamboo species, including moso bamboo, madake bamboo, and light bamboo. Each of these bamboo species has different characteristics and uses, and proper management and utilization are required.
However, the increase in neglected bamboo forests in recent years has upset the balance of the ecosystem and increased the risk of landslides. Bamboo rhizomes are very shallow, extending only about 30 cm below the ground surface. In the past, bamboo was often planted near rice paddies and satoyama, where there are many water resources, and there are many bamboo groves that show evidence of having been managed through the harvesting of bamboo shoots and other activities, and where bamboo was successfully managed while living in harmony with broad-leaved and deciduous trees. The expansion of bamboo forests will affect the surrounding water environment.
The expansion of bamboo forests also affects the surrounding water environment, and forests that have been vegetated only with bamboos can cause an imbalance in the subsoil environment, leading to surface collapse and sediment runoff on slopes and other surfaces.
Bamboo tends to expand rapidly through underground stems, especially on flat surfaces, and it has been confirmed that bamboo roots have invaded the subfloors of houses.
In addition, it takes a lot of labor to manage a bamboo grove that has become thick and unmanaged, and the current situation is that the local community is not actively involved in the harvesting of young bamboo shoots, which in the past was supported by the community.
There are various methods for bamboo grove management, and if properly managed, it is not too difficult to maintain them.
We take into consideration the risks involved in clearing bamboo forests and the impact on the surrounding ecosystem when managing bamboo forests. It is necessary to manage bamboo forests in a balanced manner, paying attention to the protection of native species and the maintenance of wildlife habitat.
Annual harvesting method: A certain amount of bamboo is harvested each year to renew the bamboo grove and dispose of dead bamboo shoots.
Biennial harvesting method: Cut down once every two years to maintain the proper density of the bamboo forest.
Third and fourth year logging method: Manage bamboo forests from a longer-term perspective
Diversified utilization of bamboo resources: Creation of new value
The properties of finely powdered bamboo powder make it suitable for a wide variety of uses. As a soil conditioner, it promotes soil compaction and improves water absorption and retention. It is also effective as a food waste treatment and deodorizer. We are using this technology to help build a recycling-oriented society in our region.
Production and Utilization of Bamboo Charcoal Bamboo charcoal has diverse functions such as improving water quality, deodorizing, and humidity control. We are working to hone our bamboo charcoal manufacturing technology and develop environmentally friendly products. For example, we are promoting the use of bamboo charcoal in a wide range of fields, such as improving water quality in aquariums and ponds, deodorizing rooms and refrigerators, and using it as a soil conditioner.
Use as a Building Material Bamboo is also attracting attention as a building material because of its high strength and light weight.
Managing Bamboo Forests for the Future Promoting Innovation and Education
The possibilities for bamboo are endless, including biomass power generation and new building materials. We are always keeping an eye on the latest technological trends and exploring new ways to utilize bamboo resources.
It is also important to communicate the value of bamboo forests to the next generation. Environmental education programs using bamboo forests as a field in cooperation with local schools and other organizations will be necessary to leave beautiful bamboo forests for the next generation. Our goal at Prunery Sora is to deepen children's attachment to and understanding of nature by having them play and learn in bamboo groves.
Toward a New Symbiosis between People and Bamboo Forests
In order to protect the rich nature of Mie Prefecture and realize a sustainable society, it is essential to coexist with bamboo forests.
We at Sora Pruner aim to balance environmental preservation and economic activities by utilizing the technology and experience we have cultivated over the years. Bamboo groves are not "nuisances," but have the potential to become a valuable local resource if properly managed and utilized.
We will continue to work hand in hand with the local community to create a future where people and nature are in harmony by combining traditional wisdom with the latest technology.
Our mission is to protect the beautiful bamboo forests of Mie Prefecture and hand them down to the next generation. With your understanding and cooperation, we will continue this challenge.