Engineered bamboo has been used as paneling , vehicle beds , concrete formworks , lightweight building construction and even for shelters after the 2004 tsunami . In comparison to the woods that have been traditionally used , a number of benefits and drawbacks have been identified . Lower cost , especially when replacing wood that would otherwise have been imported , is a key advantage . Further benefits include greater hardness and shape retention , especially in high temperatures
2004 tsunami
2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami
Engineered bamboo