Hempcrete: The green future of construction?
Hemp, known as a versatile crop, is experiencing a renaissance, also in the construction industry, as hempcrete is becoming a promising material for more environmentally friendly construction.
"The Guardian” recently published an article about hempcrete, also known as hemp lime, which is made from hemp and lime. Hemp, known as a versatile crop, is experiencing a renaissance, also in the construction industry, as hempcrete is becoming a promising material for more environmentally friendly construction.
In view of the enormous CO2 emissions from cement production, which account for around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable alternatives such as hempcrete are becoming increasingly important. This material combines numerous advantages: Not only is it non-toxic and resistant to mould, fire and pests, it is also characterised by its CO2-binding properties.
Lea Schmid
Hempcrete's ability to sequester more than twice its own weight in carbon - and at twice the rate of conventional forestry - could make a significant contribution to reducing global CO2 emissions. These bio-based building materials offer a way out of the dilemma facing the construction industry, which is urgently seeking solutions to become carbon neutral by 2050.
Developed in France in the 1980s, Hempcrete, or also called Hemp-Lime, builds on centuries-old construction methods, but adds the aspect of sustainability. The material, which is extracted from the inner stalk of the hemp plant, offers an effective solution for insulating and finishing the interior of buildings.
For pioneers like Tim White of Texas Healthy Homes, Hempcrete represents an answer to the demand for non-toxic living spaces, free from the harmful chemicals that are ubiquitous in the modern construction industry.
Luisa Pfau
The challenge for the hemp-lime industry now is to compete against the established construction industry, whose priorities are cost control and feasibility. While progress has already been made in Europe, the industry in the US is still in its infancy. However, projects such as Tao Climate in Ukraine, which effectively removes CO2 from the atmosphere while creating sustainable housing, demonstrate the immense potential of Hempcrete.
The green revolution in construction has begun. Hempcrete could not only fundamentally change the way we build, but also make a significant contribution to climate protection.
