Industrial hemp is a sustainable resource that’s been cultivated for thousands of years due to its extreme versatility. It’s now on the rise again as a popular alternative to traditional building materials as many contractors make the shift towards sustainable construction. Here’s everything you need to know about sustainable construction and the material leading the way, hemp insulation.
What is Industrial Hemp?
Industrial hemp is a non-psychoactive variety of the Cannabis sativa plant that’s specifically grown for industrial use and consumption. While the seeds are highly nutritious, the stalk of the plant contains versatile fibers and shiv (hurd) that are used in many industries like:
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Textiles
What Makes Hemp a Sustainable Alternative?
So, what makes industrial hemp sustainable and good for the environment? The hemp plant contributes to climate stabilization with a variety of unique features like:
1. Carbon Sequestration
Hemp absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores in it the soil through its roots. Which reduces greenhouse gases and improves soil health.
2. Renewable Resource
Hemp has a fast growing period and is a low maintenance crop which means it requires less resources, like water, than many traditional agricultural crops. Its ability to grow in drier conditions makes it a top renewable resource.
3. Energy Efficiency
Because it requires less attention than other crops, farmers growing hemp also save on energy. And because our family farm, Rookie Farmers, is just down the road from our Green Fox Headquarters, we’re reducing emissions during harvest season and crop transportation.
4. Reduced Waste
Every part of the hemp plant can be used. While many growers and producers don’t utilize hemp to its full capabilities, it is part of our Sustainability Pledge to have a zero-waste production process. We oversee every step and use 100% of the hemp plant from nourishing goods to sustainable materials like hemp insulation, erosion control products, hempcrete, and more.
Because every part of the plant can be used, hemp supports the development of eco-friendly products and aids in a circular, sustainable economy.
5. Biodegradable
Hemp is naturally biodegradable. And our hemp-based products are equally as eco-friendly and biodegradable, just like the plant itself!
How Is Hemp Insulation Made?
After Rookie Farmers harvest the hemp plant, the hemp bales are transported to our Green Fox facility. From there, our team separates the hurd and the fiber from the rest of the stalk (this is called decordication). We take our Green Fox fiber and blend it with a polymer binder and fire retardant agent. After mixing, it's formed into the appropriate thicknesses and densities then heat treated and cut into a variety of dimensions. And the best part? Because every step is done inside our facility’s walls, waste, middlemen, and inefficient production are eliminated.
Our line of Hemp Insulation Batts include high- and low-density options with different thicknesses depending on use. Our insulation batts can be inserted by friction between wooden or steel frames in interior walls, ceilings, and floors.
Benefits of Hemp Insulation
Why are builders choosing hemp insulation? Compared to traditional insulation, hemp insulation is the top choice if you want a non-toxic, eco-friendly home. But that’s not the only reason. Hemp insulation is also superior to traditional insulation when it comes to:
1. Moisture Regulation
Hemp insulation naturally absorbs and releases water vapor which can help regulate humidity and prevent moisture buildup and mold growth in your home. And unlike traditional insulation, this moisture control creates a healthier, more stable indoor environment.
2. Thermal Regulation / Fire Resistance
Hemp insulation can help regulate temperatures year round keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Green Fox Hemp Insulation has achieved a Class A fire rating.
3. Pest Resistance
Hemp insulation can help protect your home from rodents and insects due to the natural properties of the hemp fibers, and the lack of nutritional value for pests. Hemp insulation's strength also makes it more difficult for pests to nest.
4. Soundproofing
Hemp Insulation has superior sound absorption and naturally reduces noise, especially in quieter spaces.
5. Non-toxic
Green Fox Hemp Insulation is non-toxic and is safe to touch with bare hands, no mask or gloves required.
Why is Sustainable Construction Important?
Global warming and environmental concerns continue to rise which is why builders and construction companies are turning to sustainable building materials like hemp insulation. Hemp insulation not only contributes to sustainability and a healthier planet, but also healthier homes, reduced carbon emissions, better air quality, and lower utility bills.
Create a healthier home and save on energy costs while helping our planet, and future generations, by incorporating hemp insulation into your building plans today.
