STUDY CONSIDERS ALTERNATIVE CROPS FOR SUGAR REGIONS

A north Queensland study has found crops such as bamboo and hemp could revitalise rural communities hit by the downturn in the sugar industry.

The six-month project suggests the north is well placed to develop a bamboo-based industry, producing medium density fibreboard for the construction industry.

Sonya Maley works for a company that focuses on bamboo and says there is a huge market here and abroad.

“Australia already imports a lot of MDF [medium density fibreboard], we also export a lot as well...the Asia Pacific rim is showing us the greatest potential market, especially China, they’ve got a huge predicted shortfall in supply over the coming 10 years and we’re in an excellent location in north Queensland to capitalise on that,” she said.


Thursday, February 20, 2003
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Provided by: www.globalhemp.com