12th World Bamboo Congress 2024: Taiwan Showcases Bamboo's Versatility and Promise for the Future

Dr. Santosh Oinam *

12th World Bamboo Congress at Taiwan under the aegis of World Bamboo Organization, USA :: April 18 - 22 2024

Taiwan recently hosted the 12th World Bamboo Congress 2024 under the aegis of the World Bamboo Organization, USA from April 18 to 22, focusing on the theme "Next Generation Bamboo: Solution, Innovation, and Design." The event, organized by the Taiwan Bamboo Society and supported by the Taiwan Forestry Bureau and the National Taiwan Craft Research Institute, brought together delegates from over 24 countries to explore the multifaceted potential of bamboo.

With academic sessions structured around three core topics - Sustainable Developments & Green Economy, Innovations in Technology & Manufacture, and Contemporary Designs & Applications - the congress delved into various aspects of bamboo's role in sustainable development, technology, design, and more.

The congress took place across two venues, the National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Hsinchu and the National Taiwan Craft Research Institute in Caotun, Nantou County. Throughout the event, participants had the opportunity to engage in discussions on topics ranging from forestry and architecture to food fortification and management.

One of the highlights of the congress was the showcase of Taiwan's rich bamboo culture and craftsmanship. Traditional and modern bamboo products, including intricate crafts and delectable cuisines made from bamboo shoots, captivated attendees and underscored the country's deep connection with this versatile resource.

The opening ceremony, inaugurated by Susanne Lucas, Founder and Executive Director of the World Bamboo Organization, USA set the tone for the event. During the ceremony, four distinguished Bamboo Pioneers: Lin Hai (People's Republic of China), Lin Wei-chih (Taiwan), Liu Wen-huang (Taiwan), Wang Wen-chih (Taiwan) were honored for their contributions to the field. She further emphasized the global significance of bamboo research and innovation.

12th World Bamboo Congress at Taiwan under the aegis of World Bamboo Organization, USA :: April 18 - 22 2024

Michel Abadie, President, World Bamboo Organization in his address, expressed gratitude to the organizers and highlighted the invaluable role of Taiwanese individuals and institutions in facilitating the congress. Special recognition was given to Lifang Tang, founder of the Taiwan Bamboo Society, and Professor Pei-Hsien Hsu for coordinating the architectural Bamboo Expo. Michel also thanked Dr. Nirmala Chongtham from Panjab University, India, who chaired the 12WBC Technical Committee and had spent months selecting the best scientific communications.

Dr. Nirmala Chongtham, professor at the Department of Botany, Panjab University, Chair of the 12th WBC Technical Committee and a keynote speaker, shed light on innovative technologies in food fortification using bamboo. Her presentation underscored the health benefits of bamboo shoots and their potential in addressing nutritional challenges. Dr. Nirmala's contributions extended beyond her keynote as she also moderated sessions on Innovations in Technology & Manufacture.

The congress featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including Dr. Santosh Oinam, World Bamboo Ambassador from Manipur, India. Dr. Santosh's lecture on the culinary heritage of North East India showcased the traditional practices of Manipuri communities in utilizing bamboo for food, emphasizing its cultural and nutritional significance. He also moderated the second academic session on 20th April.

12th World Bamboo Congress at Taiwan under the aegis of World Bamboo Organization, USA :: April 18 - 22 2024

In addition to academic sessions, the Bamboo Expo showcased a wide array of bamboo products and innovations from around the world. Dr. Nirmala Chongtham's exhibit, featuring her book on bamboo shoot nutrition and a traditional bamboo craft from Manipuri society, highlighted the intersection of culture, nutrition, and sustainability.

As the five-day event drew to a close at the National Taiwan Craft Research Institute, participants departed with a renewed commitment to harnessing bamboo's potential for a more sustainable and innovative future.

The 12th World Bamboo Congress in Taiwan not only celebrated the rich cultural heritage of bamboo but also charted a course for its continued exploration and utilization in addressing global challenges. With a focus on solution-driven innovation and design, the congress served as a platform for collaboration and inspiration, promising a brighter future where bamboo plays a central role in sustainable development worldwide.

See a full photo gallery of 12th World Bamboo Congress here