Coconut fiber, also known as coir, comes from the inner husk of coconuts. According to the University of Florida Extension, coconuts are the most widely grown nut in the world and contribute significantly to the economy of many tropical areas. The short, tough fibers can be woven or pressed together for a number of uses. Unlike man-made fibers, coconut is a renewable resource.

Coir rope resists saltwater, so it is favored for use on boats, according to the Discover Natural Fibres website. For this reason, coir is also used to make fishing nets.

Coir mats keep you from tracking dirt into the house. The mats, made of natural brown coir woven or pressed together, appeal to people who prefer a natural material over a synthetic. The stubby bristles of coir effectively remove mud and grime from shoes and stand up to the elements. When they begin to break down, you can use them as mulch in the garden or add them to a compost pile.

Coir serves as a substitute for peat in potting soils and landscaping materials. Coir can be used as a mulch or as a medium for hydroponic gardening. When compared to the non-renewable nature of peat moss, coir offers an environmentally friendly alternative.

Coir provides a natural, non-toxic replacement for asbestos in the production of cement fiberboard. The fiber-reinforced concrete is strong, flexible and may be less expensive to produce than other reinforcement methods such as wire mesh or rebar, according to a paper by Ben Davis of Georgia Tech University.