When it comes to soil erosion control, there’s no shortage of options. From synthetic, non-degradable mats to their natural, biodegradable counterparts, you’re almost spoiled for choice when it comes to erosion control options. However, before you make your choice, it’s better to evaluate the performance of each option over important metrics like performance, biodegradability, and cost-effectiveness.
Despite strict government regulations in place, soil erosion remains a threat that needs to be addressed. The use of erosion control blankets to protect the soil from erosion caused by rain and wind is not new. However, synthetic blankets have long been the first choice.
These synthetic solutions damage our environment and are difficult to maintain after vegetation has been established. Considering the drawbacks, the need for a natural and biodegradable option just couldn’t be ignored any longer.
This is where coir products come in since they offer many benefits over synthetic blankets while not posing any threats like synthetics do. So why exactly is coir the best choice when it comes to biodegradable erosion control? Let’s find out!
Coir: The Best Biodegradable Erosion Control
Coir is a fiber extracted from the outer shell of the coconut fruit. At first, it was considered waste and discarded and was only restricted to use as doormats and floor mats. However, now coir is being used to develop a wide range of erosion and sediment control products. Coir fiber has the highest strength and durability of any readily-available natural fibers. It is the best natural fiber for protecting our natural resources. During processing, coir fiber is separated into several grades. The thin, short. Fiber is called mattress coir fiber and the longer stronger fiber is called bristle coir fiber.
For instance, coir blankets are very effective in combating soil erosion problems. One good example is RoLanka’s BioD-Mat which is made up of woven bristle coir. These blankets have a high tensile strength and durability than woven coir blankets made of mattress coir fiber or mixed coir fiber. The BioD-Mat blankets can last for up to four to six years.
Moreover, coir is completely natural and biodegradable and it’s safe for wildlife as well. Since there’s no plastic present to interfere with aquatic life, coir products can be used in a wide range of applications.
When compared to synthetic options, coir-based products are easy to maintain as well. Unlike synthetics, there’s no need for removal and reconstruction once their functional life expires. Instead, it can simply be used as mulch.
Coir is also known for its moisture holding ability which makes it a great medium for seed germination and growth. Furthermore, vegetation can also easily move through coir blankets and mats.
Conclusion: Soil Erosion? Get Coir!
RoLanka offers a wide range of coir products; from coir fiber mattress to coir fiber logs, we offer products for a large number of applications. Check out our online store to order or get in touch with us if you need to learn more about coir and how it’s the best way to combat soil erosion!