As previously mentioned in the EkoBlog, the construction industry is one of the most polluting sectors globally, responsible for 23% of air pollution and 40% of drinking water contamination. This reality has led the construction industry to face the challenge of adopting more responsible practices.
HEMPCRETE, an innovative company specializing in the manufacturing and marketing of hemp-based construction materials, stands as a benchmark in this paradigm shift. Founded by Raquel Sanchis, an architect trained at the prestigious Pratt Institute in New York, and her father Fernando Sanchis, a lime expert with over five decades of experience, HEMPCRETE merges tradition and modernity in its construction approach. In this new article from the EkoBlog, we introduce HEMPCRETE, its fundamental principles, and the uniqueness of its products. Read on to learn about its history.
History and Foundations of HEMPCRETE
Origins of a Sustainable Vision
The story of HEMPCRETE is forged at the intersection of traditional construction and sustainable innovation. Raquel Sanchis, after years of training and specialization in sustainable design and bioclimatic architecture, conceived the idea of creating a company that not only addressed energy efficiency in construction but also utilized renewable resources. Together with her father, whose extensive experience in traditional lime construction provided invaluable technical knowledge, HEMPCRETE was established with a clear objective: to redefine the standards of bioconstruction through the use of materials that are both innovative and environmentally friendly.
The choice of hemp as the central raw material is not coincidental. This fast-growing crop requires minimal water resources and has become a key ally in the pursuit of sustainable construction solutions. HEMPCRETE relies on research highlighting the exceptional properties of hemp, promoting its use as an efficient and eco-friendly construction material.
Mission and Vision
HEMPCRETE articulates its mission around transforming the construction industry by promoting the use of natural materials that not only meet technical standards but also ensure a comfortable and healthy interior environment. The company’s vision is ambitious: to become a benchmark in sustainable construction, creating spaces that care for both people and the planet. This holistic approach seeks to inspire a change in construction practices, emphasizing the need to build consciously.
Products and Market Differentiation
Innovation in Construction Materials
HEMPCRETE is distinguished by its wide range of products, all made from hemp derivatives. Its flagship product, hemp concrete prefabricated blocks, consists of three natural ingredients: hemp, lime, and water. This simplified design not only optimizes the construction process but also guarantees superior thermal and acoustic performance. With a thermal conductivity of 0.07 W/m·K, these blocks provide an effective solution for meeting the requirements of the Technical Building Code (CTE) in various climatic zones in Spain, eliminating the need for additional layers of insulation.
HEMPCRETE also supplies hemp shiv, a versatile material that allows for the on-site production of hemp concrete, adapting to the project’s specifications. Additionally, its hemp fiber panels are used as insulation systems in roofs, walls, and floors, contributing to interior comfort and energy efficiency.
Competitive Advantages
HEMPCRETE’s differentiation in the market lies in its dual focus on biomaterials and conventional construction materials. Unlike many competitors, HEMPCRETE offers industrialized products that ensure a constant supply and consistent quality, facilitating their application in large-scale projects. Furthermore, its hemp concrete not only meets ecological requirements but also boasts notable properties: its negative carbon footprint of -75 kg of CO₂ per cubic meter makes it a highly desirable material for initiatives seeking sustainability certifications.
Another highlight is the natural moisture resistance of its products and their high fire resistance rating (B-s1, d0). These characteristics not only ensure the safety of buildings but also contribute to the creation of healthy environments free from toxic compounds.
Sustainability and Product Life Cycle
HEMPCRETE ensures the sustainability of its products through the use of hemp cultivated under ecological agricultural practices, which involves lower water consumption and no pesticides. Throughout its life cycle, hemp concrete acts as a carbon sink, contributing to climate change mitigation. The ability of hemp to regenerate soil and its rapid growth, in just 3-4 months, makes it an ideal option in the pursuit of responsible agricultural practices.
HEMPCRETE products are designed for long life, and at the end of their cycle, they are completely recyclable and biodegradable, ensuring they do not generate harmful waste. This comprehensive approach ensures that every stage of their life, from production to final disposal, minimizes environmental impact.
HEMPCRETE stands as a leader at the intersection of innovation and sustainability in the construction sector. Its focus on bioconstruction and the use of hemp-derived materials not only responds to current market demands but also anticipates a more responsible future in building. With products that guarantee energy efficiency and superior quality, HEMPCRETE not only constructs buildings but also builds a legacy toward a more sustainable environment. At Ekohunters, we take pride in bringing our readers stories committed to a sustainable future and showcasing the journeys of colleagues who share our values.
