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Bamboo is the New Black

What do Pandas have in common some House employees?

All jokes aside, the endangered Asian bears and Office of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) employees may soon share an affinity for bamboo. While Pandas prefer to chew the woody plant, some uniformed CAO staff members have been wearing it.

For the past few weeks, a number of CAO employees have been trying out black polo shirts made from a 70/30 bamboo and cotton blend. It’s an experiment to see how well the shirts hold up under various conditions and whether they are comfortable across seasons.

If all goes well, the eco-sensitive fabric is expected to become standard issue for about 100 uniform-wearing CAO staff. The shirts are completely biodegradable, and made from bamboo grown without pesticides or fertilizers.

“So far, it’s highly recommended by the staff,” said David Woodburn, director of logistics for the Assets, Furnishings and Logistics department. Woodburn said three people on his staff had been wearing the bamboo shirts for the past three weeks without complaint. “The shirts are softer, lighter and cooler.”

The shirts, sans CAO logo, are also on sale at the House’s Office Supply and Gift Ship. “We’re always looking for products and supplies that will support the Green the Capitol initiative,” said Marie Burns, the shop’s director. So far, feedback has been positive, Burns said.

Bamboo is the fastest-growing plant on earth, and is considered a renewable and sustainable resource. Its fiber possesses properties that resist bacteria, fungus, static and UV rays. When used in fabric, bamboo absorbs sweat without sticking to skin and is a good alternative for people with sensitive or allergy-prone skin, according to bamboo shirt maker Akwa. Bamboo fabric can be washed, dried and ironed like cotton.

“They are very, very breathable,” said Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Walt Edwards. “What we don’t know yet is the durability.”

A final verdict on the bamboo shirts is likely a few months away. If the switch is made, new shirts will be ordered as old shirts are in need of replacement.