A dialogue on alternative construction materials has commenced in response to escalating housing costs. The conversation focused on utilizing locally sourced bamboo from Fiji as a potential building material that can endure extreme weather conditions, such as Category Five cyclones.
Participants explored how bamboo might present a sustainable solution for affordable housing amidst the surge in real estate prices. Andrew Pene, director of the Department of Buildings and Government Architects, stated that the Fiji Bamboo project represents a significant advancement for the construction industry.
“It is bringing bamboo into new territories for Fiji that other countries have already explored, advancing technology and ideas for its use in housing and infrastructure,” he remarked. “This is an exciting time.”
Taniela Whippy, director of Forest Products, expressed his support for the initiative, highlighting its alignment with strategic development goals. He mentioned, “The ministry also has plans for non-forest timber products, with bamboo being one of them. Our team is prepared to engage in the work scheduled for this financial year.”
The Fiji Bamboo Association noted the abundance of bamboo resources locally that are currently underutilized. They stressed that the bamboo industry has the potential to not only provide employment opportunities but also contribute to creating stronger and more resilient structures.