Are Hempcrete Blocks a Reliable Replacement in the Construction Industry?

In today’s climate, most people understand that global warming continues to be a prevalent issue within our society. However, many people are unaware of just how much the construction industry contributes to this problem. While in total, buildings generate nearly 40% of global CO2 emissions, 23% of that emission is due to materials like concrete, steel, and aluminum. (Architecture, 2020). With such a high carbon footprint like this, it is evident that the materials we choose need to be more sustainable. Hempcrete blocks are a rising alternative to modern-day materials due to its lightweight, thermal, and sustainable qualities. Hempcrete is made from dried hemp stock and lime, making it an eco-friendly replacement for concrete blocks because its production process does not create pollution. Hempcrete by itself is a weaker building block than concrete, however, there is now a method that integrates an internal biodegradable structure to the hempcrete that allows it to achieve the same resistance strength as concrete. Overall, this report explores the production, uses, and comparisons of hemp blocks to other materials.