Why Jute?
Jute, a remarkable natural fiber.
Offers numerous advantages that make it a compelling choice in various industries. Unlike trees that take 60 to 80 years to mature or bamboo that matures in 3 to 10 years, jute matures in a mere 120 days. This rapid growth rate allows for three jute crops per year in Bangladesh, where crop rotation is practiced, typically involving two rice crops and one jute crop. By incorporating jute into the agricultural cycle, land area dedicated to jute production does not encroach upon food production. Furthermore, jute cultivation requires minimal fertilizers and pesticides, promoting environmentally friendly farming practices.
The social impact of jute cannot be overstated.
Particularly in a country like Bangladesh, where nearly one-third of its 163 million population directly or indirectly relies on the jute industry. Many farmers and entrepreneurs in the jute value chain face poverty, and women play significant roles in this sector. By emphasizing the value of jute and elevating its position in the value chain, we contribute to empowering women and uplifting approximately 50 million people out of poverty. This transformative effect is what we call the Jute Effect.
Jute stands as the second largest natural fiber globally, surpassed only by cotton. Its primary cultivation occurs in India, Bangladesh, and Brazil, with the highest quality jute originating from Bangladesh. As a cellulosic fiber, jute offers a renewable annual crop that can be co-grown with food crops like rice. This co-cultivation does not compromise land resources in regions grappling with poverty and food scarcity. In fact, the volume of cellulosic fiber produced per hectare per year exceeds that of many fast-growing trees.
Cultivating jute requires minimal chemical inputs
And relatively small amounts of water. It is completely biodegradable, non-toxic, and has a positive environmental impact. For instance, one hectare of jute absorbs 15 metric tons of carbon dioxide and releases 11 metric tons of oxygen into the atmosphere, surpassing the oxygen production of popular trees commonly grown for their high oxygen yield.
From a technical standpoint, jute possesses an array of beneficial properties, making it a highly sustainable alternative in various applications.
various applications
- Comparable tensile strength to steel.
- Lightweight, approximately 30% lighter than glass fiber.
- Low density.
- Insulating properties.
- 100% natural, biodegradable, recyclable, and combustible.
- Anti-static and UV protective.
- Carbon dioxide neutral.
- Antibacterial and antiseptic.
Advancements in jute
Advancements in jute research and development have further enhanced its potential as a green alternative in the textile, automotive, and construction industries. The increasing global awareness of environmental concerns has brought the “Golden Fiber” back into the spotlight, highlighting its exceptional sustainability credentials.
