Transforming economic and environmental sustainability through bamboo: a systematic review

Bamboo, as a versatile and renewable resource, has significant economic and environmental potential and could contribute to sustainable development. In this systematic review, we synthesize evidence of the multidimensional contributions of bamboo to eco-economic dimensions, as an alternative to non-renewable and non-recyclable materials. We address the research question: “How do bamboo forest resources contribute to economic and environmental sustainability?” 71 articles out of 1,147 were screened for final analysis. Key findings related to the main economic and environmental value of bamboo supportive to SDGs, identifying existing research gaps, spotlighting the importance of policy frameworks for sustainability and suggesting implications for future research and interventions for inclusive green development, the central focus of this investigation. Bamboo could play a critical role in creating a sustainable future. We outline opportunities to enhance its value. The eco-economic values and services of bamboo extend to construction, textiles, energy production, agriculture sectors and climate change and plastic pollution mitigation efforts. Bamboo, as a multipurpose plant, substantially supports sustainable livelihoods, resource sustainability, a low carbon footprint and global networking opportunities. Bamboo could support 10 of the 17 SDGs. For instance, bamboo could directly support the achievement of SDGs 8, 13 and 17. Research on the eco-economic contributions of bamboo has covered less than 1% of bamboo species and is predominantly concentrated in Asian countries. Limitations in scalability, lack of product standards, skill limitations, capacity constraints, market issues and inadequate policy frameworks hinder bamboo's full potential. Further investigations into socioeconomic factors, management practices and strategic governance are necessary to enhance its contributions. To maximize bamboo's significance, it is essential to implement product standardization, adopt new technologies, develop capacity and develop effective policy frameworks. Integrating bamboo with the SDGs could significantly enhance the value and competitiveness of bamboo products while fostering diverse industrial development and regional revitalization. The implications of bamboo in plastic substitution, carbon sequestration, job creation opportunities and other areas are key indicators of bamboo’s significance in achieving both eco-economic growth and sustainable development. Addressing research gaps and implementing strategic interventions would unlock its full potential in an equitable and environmentally conscious global economy. • Bamboo contributes economy & environment through Provision, Mitigation, Substitution • Bamboo supports 10 out of 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals • Scalability, standardization, and policy issues limit bamboo's full potential • Integrated and strategic management unlocks bamboo's full circular economy potential