A discussion has commenced regarding alternative building materials in response to increasing housing prices. The conversation focused on utilizing Fijian-grown bamboo as a potential construction method capable of withstanding severe weather conditions, such as category five cyclones.
Participants examined how bamboo could serve as a practical solution for affordable housing amidst the rising costs in the real estate market. Andrew Pene, the director of the Department of Buildings and Government Architects, emphasized that the Fiji Bamboo project represents significant progress for the construction industry.
“It is introducing bamboo into new domains for Fiji that other countries have already embraced, advancing the technology and concepts for housing and infrastructure projects,” he stated. “It’s an exciting time.”
Taniela Whippy, director of Forest Products, expressed his support for the initiative, highlighting its alignment with strategic development plans. “The ministry also has initiatives for non-forest timber products, with bamboo being one of them,” Mr. Whippy remarked. “Our team will be prepared to engage in the projects outlined for this financial year.”
The Fiji Bamboo Association noted that there are numerous bamboo resources available locally that remain under-utilized. They asserted that developing the bamboo industry would not only create job opportunities but also result in the construction of stronger and more resilient buildings.