Should you have any questions about Bamboo farming, processing, distribution, larger industry trends, or especially biochar production – you have discovered THE man to talk to: Fred Hornaday of Bambu Batu.

You already know he is brimming with information based on the massive archive of articles and videos his website hosts, yet talking to him directly (he offers consultation at very reasonable rates) goes above and beyond expectations. He is very well connected in the bamboo world, and is always up to date on current projects in all stages – including those very early ones.

Every conversation I’ve had with Fred has felt like receiving a PhD in bamboo. You enter the conversation with some specific guiding questions, yet you walk out with a full thesis.

[Fred’s] enthusiasm and passion for bamboo brought us together and since then I have seen in him a love of hard work, sharing knowledge about bamboo and promoting the development of this resource all over the world. He is always available to share his bamboo knowledge with others… I think Fred still has a lot to contribute to this booming industry. Reason for which I strongly encourage him has continued to impact this developing sector in his own way.

Bambu Batu, led by Fred Hornaday, presents a wealth of knowledge and insight into the world of bamboo. The site is a treasure trove for anyone interested in bamboo farming, sustainable building, and the environmental benefits of this versatile plant.

From detailed guides on different bamboo species to exploring the use of bamboo in clothing and construction, Bambu Batu is dedicated to promoting this sustainable resource globally.

I didn’t know that there was life in bamboo, but with some little research, I met Fred, who completely changed my perception of this precious plant. Fred is very supportive and with immense knowledge of bamboo species and their various use cases – ecological, economic and social.

He is a fantastic mentor, very encouraging, and has a lot of enthusiasm for bamboo. His in-depth understanding of bamboo is transforming lives worldwide.

Everything bamboo and more! Clothes are so soft and so are the new sheets I picked up today. They have all sorts of unique things tucked throughout the shop. It’s amazing to see all the wonderful products that can be made from bamboo!! Not everything in this cool shop is bamboo. There was a beautiful candle holder I found with exquisite wood grain. When I asked about it I learned it is made of mango wood in Thailand. So I bought one. Definitely a store you will enjoy browsing through.

It’s not only the products, but the intentions behind them, that make this place worth visiting!

LOVE. LOVE. LOVE.

Two guys playing guitar greeted me at the door. Delicious tea being served in the back. Wonderfully soft organic tees and bamboo everything!!! The owner/manager was super chill. Good vibes all the way.

Posters adorned the wall with famous and memorable quotes ranging from Buddha to Bob Marley and Hendrix, respectively. Amazing. Can I live here? Can this be my bedroom?

A wonderful place to shop. Little figurines and statues, bells, clothes, bamboo, incense, what more can you ask for? Definitely great for gifts. And the live guitar music was a plus. Uber cool.