Sustainability Impacts of Bamboo Poles in Ecuador: A Social and Environmental Life Cycle Assessment

Ecuador is considered one of the South American countries with abundant bamboo resources due to its diversity and abundance. This species, considered a non-timber resource, contributes to multiple SDGs because of its environmental potential and provision of sustainable livelihoods. This study uses a life cycle assessment methodology to evaluate the social and ecological impacts of preserved bamboo in two key production regions in Ecuador. The findings show that bamboo conserved in various by-products and processing forms emits less than 0.5 kg of CO2-Eq, with chemical inputs and transportation distances accounting for most of the environmental impacts. The assessment of the social implications of the actors in the bamboo chain is above average, translating into a “fair” evaluation, which tends to be more positive than negative. Thus, bamboo is seen as a source of livelihood for rural inhabitants, but it faces challenges such as poor agricultural incomes, informal employment, and limited access to basic services. Despite these obstacles, institutional support and the rise in the market for bamboo-based products provide opportunities to improve rural development, create green jobs, and strengthen climate resilience. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders to enhance the role of bamboo in rural development.