In fact, hemp could even be set to meet EU certification standards for carbon credits, helping to reduce our carbon footprints—if not our shoe sizes.
The report, compiled by nova-Institute, a research organization based in Hürth, Germany, highlights that carbon removal via hemp is on par with fast-growing trees like spruce, Douglas fir, and birch. Yes, hemp, not just for eco-friendly clothing anymore, but also a green powerhouse for construction materials!
“For hemp, the amount of carbon stored in the raw materials which can potentially be used in the construction and insulation industry is found between 9.5 and 11.4 tons CO2 equivalent per hectare (gross),” the report explains. “The main sensitivity is the straw yield per hectare. Higher straw yields result in more stored carbon per hectare, whereas the opposite holds for lower yields.” So, hemp farmers: the more straw, the better, but don’t forget to leave some for the scarecrows.
“Gross” refers to the total carbon captured in the field, while “net” figures subtract emissions from activities like planting, harvesting, and processing. Hemp and wood are neck and neck in the race for net carbon removal, with both ranging between 5.5 and 11 tons per hectare. It’s a close competition, though we suspect the trees aren’t sweating it.
Even the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development (DG AGRI) has taken notice. The Commission calls hemp “an interesting option” under the EU’s proposed carbon removal certification framework. This framework aims to encourage nature-based solutions like restoring forests and innovative farming practices, which could include growing more hemp—not just because it makes nice paper or comfy pants.
“The aim of the EU carbon removal certification framework is to scale up carbon removal activities and fight greenwashing,” says the nova-Institute report. The framework is designed to help businesses show they’re serious about climate action, and to certify carbon removal efforts. In short: no more pretending to be green while quietly polluting.
The EU’s circular economy action plan also comes into play here, aiming to cut down the carbon footprint of buildings. By promoting “circular renovation” initiatives, the EU wants to encourage the use of green infrastructure and organic building materials, which—surprise, surprise—includes hemp. Finally, a building material that’s as eco-friendly as it is versatile!
In some broader context, Europe saw a 4% drop in greenhouse gas emissions in the fourth quarter of 2022 compared to the same period in 2021, according to Eurostat. But there’s still work to be done: the construction industry contributes 5 to 12% of total CO2 emissions across EU member states. No pressure, hemp, but we could use all the help we can get.
The EU has a lofty goal of reaching climate neutrality by 2050, and hemp might just be one of the building blocks to get us there. Who knew that a plant often associated with eco-friendly clothing and natural remedies could also help build a greener future—literally?
Photo by: toa55 from akaratwimages
