The story

In China, Japan and elsewhere, renewable plant resources from local environments have been used since ancient times to make clothing — one example is the Chinese palm-bark rain cape. Beautifully designed, yet practical in function, it effectively funnels the rain away from the wearer, at the same time providing ventilation. Worn with a large hat made of split bamboo, it is an indispensable garment for working in the fields and for protection while fishing.

Today, in many areas, clothing made from local renewable resources has faded from use and been replaced with plastic rain wear.