In a beautiful example of people integrating with nature, the War-Khasis tribe of northeastern India have created bridges in their hilly villages that are grown, not built, using the roots of the ficus elastica tree. With over 463 inches of rain PER YEAR, this is one of the wettest places on earth.
The tangled roots of these structures won’t rot, wash out, or rust in the prolonged and frequent flooding. They continue to grow and become stronger over time… with some bridges thought to be well over 500 years old.
A lovely element of this practice is that new bridges may not reach their true potential in the lifetime of the people who are helping to create it.
No truck, no steel, minimal impact on the eco-system around the river. Elders working with the next generation on taking care of FUTURE generations, with skill and intention.
Magic.
Written by Brad Black and Susan Griffin-Black, EO’s founders and co-CEOs.
