Bamboo is a strong, lightweight and renewable material. It can be harvested every 3-7 years without negative impact on the planet.
Because it is so strong it can be used as a structural material. As wood becomes more scarce bamboo construction will become more prevalent here in the US.
Around the world bamboo is used every day in a multitude of ways. Here on the mainland US we are really behind the rest of the planet in taking advantage of the environmentally friendly and fast growing plant.
Just Google bamboo crafts and bamboo construction and you will be amazed!