A discussion on alternative building materials has begun amid the rising housing prices.
Discussion centred around developing Fijian grown bamboo as an alternative construction technology that can withstand extreme weather events such as category five cyclones.
The focus shifted to exploring how bamboo could offer a viable solution for affordable housing amid rising real estate prices.
Department of Buildings and Government Architects director Andrew Pene said the Fiji Bamboo project paved the way forward for the construction sector.
“It is moving bamboo into the new realms for Fiji that overseas countries are already in, progressing the technology and the ideas to use it for housing and infrastructure projects,” he said.
“It’s an exciting time.”
While pledging his support for this initiative, Forest Product director Taniela Whippy said the project was aligned with the strategic development plans.
“The ministry also has plans for non-forest timber products and bamboo is one of those,” Mr Whippy said.
“Our team will be ready to take part in the work planned out for this financial year.”
The Fiji Bamboo Association said there were a lot of bamboo resources available locally which are currently under-utilised.
They said the bamboo industry would not only generate employment but, stronger and resilient buildings.
