In a groundbreaking development for the construction industry, hempcrete, a sustainable and carbon-negative building material, has been officially recognized in the 2024 version of the International Residential Code (IRC) appendix. This inclusion marks a significant milestone in the mainstreaming of hempcrete, a blend of hemp hurd, lime, and water, which has the potential to revolutionize the way we build and address the global housing crisis while mitigating climate change.
Pandwe Gibson, a researcher at the Media Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, has been at the forefront of this research. Gibson’s work, published in ‘Academia Materials Science’ (Academic Materials Science), delves into the historical roots of hempcrete, tracing its use back to ancient civilizations. “Hemp was used in Rome as far back as Julius Caesar’s time and in the sixth century when France was still Gaul,” Gibson explains. This historical context underscores the durability and versatility of hempcrete, making it a compelling choice for modern construction.
The inclusion of lime in hempcrete formulations is particularly noteworthy. Lime has been used in building construction since ancient times, and its role in enhancing the material’s properties is crucial. Gibson highlights that lime not only improves the structural integrity of hempcrete but also contributes to its carbon-sequestering capabilities. “Lime, CO2, and structural components can increase commercial viability and create the scale necessary for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) call for nations to maintain the global temperature increase below 1.5°C and net zero by 2050,” Gibson notes.
The adoption of hempcrete presents both opportunities and challenges for the construction sector. On one hand, hempcrete offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional building materials, which could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the industry. On the other hand, the commercial viability and scalability of hempcrete production need to be addressed to meet the demands of the global housing crisis.
The evolution of curing techniques for hempcrete is another area of focus. Traditional methods have given way to modern innovations, offering insights into future advancements. As Gibson puts it, “The utility of hemp has historically been overshadowed by a false narcotics narrative and association. Codifying hempcrete’s performance to underscore its environmental benefits and economic viability is crucial for its widespread adoption.”
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, the adoption of hempcrete could lead to significant reductions in carbon emissions, aligning with global climate goals. Moreover, the economic viability of hempcrete could create new opportunities for investment and innovation in the construction industry. As Gibson’s research indicates, hempcrete has the potential to reshape the built environment, making it more sustainable and resilient in the face of climate change.
The inclusion of hempcrete in the IRC appendix is a testament to its growing acceptance in the construction industry. As researchers, architects, and policymakers continue to explore its potential, hempcrete could become a cornerstone of sustainable construction practices. The future of hempcrete looks promising, and its impact on the energy sector and the built environment is poised to be transformative.