Carbon Storage in Hemp and Wood Raw Materials for Construction Materials
This report examines the carbon storage potential of hemp and wood as raw materials for the construction industry. It explores how biomass from these sources can contribute to climate change mitigation by storing carbon in building materials. The study compares the carbon storage capacity and associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of wood and hemp, and outlines their role in carbon removal certification frameworks.
Key Takeaways
- Carbon Storage Capacity: Hemp and wood provide similar levels of carbon storage per hectare, with wood typically offering higher carbon content, but hemp having faster growth rates.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Hemp cultivation is associated with higher GHG emissions due to fertilizer use, while wood production has lower inputs and emissions.
- Certification Potential: Both hemp and wood are suitable candidates for the EU’s Carbon Removal Certification framework, with long-lasting carbon storage in construction materials.
How It Can Help You
This report is valuable for construction industry professionals, environmental researchers, and policymakers seeking to:
- Understand the carbon storage benefits of hemp and wood in construction.
- Explore sustainable building materials that contribute to climate change mitigation.
- Navigate carbon removal certification processes for biobased materials.
Key Learnings
- Carbon Removal Potential: Both hemp and wood can store significant amounts of carbon in construction materials, contributing to climate goals.
- Trade-offs in Emissions: Hemp cultivation requires higher inputs, resulting in more GHG emissions than wood, but both materials offer net carbon sequestration benefits.
- Policy Implications: The report provides insights into how biobased materials can be integrated into regulatory frameworks for carbon removal and sustainability.
Date: June 2023
