USA: Hemp Building Institute promotes affordable housing with natural materials

The Hemp Building Institute (HBI) recently announced a new project aimed at incorporating natural building materials and sustainable practices into affordable housing. This strategic decision, taken by HBI's board of directors, recognizes the urgent need for greener and more efficient construction methods and materials in the housing sector.

The institute said in a statement that its mission aligns with federal agencies' growing emphasis on sustainable building practices and their potential benefits for both homeowners and the planet.

HBI is committed to researching and promoting the use of natural building materials and sustainable practices. Through extensive research and education of the general public on the benefits of these innovative techniques, the institute aims to develop affordable housing concepts that effectively leverage these technologies.

$4.000 billion for housing innovation
With support from the Environmental Protection Agency, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development has committed $4.000 billion to innovation in creating affordable, healthier and more sustainable housing. In addition, the US Department of Agriculture is looking for new markets for agricultural crops, which include hemp. Consequently, the development of natural building materials and sustainable building practices in affordable housing will benefit not only these federal agencies, but also various state and local government initiatives.

Jacob Waddell, president of HBI, said, “HBI is working tirelessly to make a significant impact on the building environment in ways that benefit both homeowners and the planet. We believe that affordable housing is an area that requires urgent attention and that can greatly benefit from the use of natural building materials and sustainable building practices.” Waddell further explained that "for these reasons, we are proud to announce this readjustment to our mission."

To fulfill its commitment, HBI is finalizing the Hemp-Lime Mortar Construction Appendix (Hempcrete) to the International Residential Building Code (IRC). In collaboration with a group of consultants and industry experts, the institute is working diligently to complete work on the document, and its submission represents a significant milestone in advancing the use of hemp as a sustainable building material.

For more information on the submission of IRC Comments by HBI you can visit the project page and the official video.

Additionally, interested parties can support HBI's mission and project through their page of fundraising.