“The investment in hemp and natural fibers will make it possible to outline a perspective for the future,” according to Pro Canapa, a committee that is leading the region’s hemp initiatives. The group said the funding will help in efforts to establish more ecological construction and fashion sectors.
Emilia-Romagna has been at the face of sustainable agriculture practices, with an aim on organic farming and reducing environmental impact. The region is home to several innovative farms that are using cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. Students and entrepreneurs, universities and other institutions are involved in the hemp supply chain project.
The plans call for the development and testing of an industrial bioreactor for the extraction of hemp fiber, construction of a pavilion made of hempcrete bricks which will be monitored for energy efficiency and performance in different temperatures, humidity, acoustics, insulation, breathability, and overall comfort.
It also calls for the design and creation of sample hemp clothing items through a training program and knitwear course under the Vallauri Institute, a technical high school. Furthermore, the additional fiber research initiatives on hemp and its many applications at educational institutions.
Photo by Vlada Karpovich
