Casa Feita por Muitas Mãos / Cairn. Image © James Retief
Written by Eduardo Souza
Cannabis has been widely used throughout human history for a variety of purposes: textiles, paper, food, medicine, biofuels, and even as a stigmatized recreational drug. Considered one of the first plants cultivated by humanity, its history spans millennia and often intertwines with the world of construction. Hemp, a variety of cannabis, has been an essential material in construction history, widely used for its exceptional strength and versatility in various applications, such as fiber production for reinforcement, thermal and acoustic insulation, and as a sustainable alternative in construction processes.
Long before the advent of concrete and steel, ancient civilizations harnessed this resource to create robust and breathable building materials. The Egyptians, known for their many architectural achievements, used hemp in ropes and sails, vital components in their monumental constructions. In ancient China, hemp was not only a crucial crop for textiles and paper but also one of the earliest forms of composite building materials. In 6th-century France, the Merovingians employed hemp mortar in bridge construction, while the Romans reinforced their buildings with hemp-infused mortar.
Today, the potential of hemp as a sustainable resource in the construction industry is being rediscovered, and a promising future is anticipated for the material, with innovations like hempcreteand fiber panels paving the way for a greener future. The material is experiencing a renaissance, not as a relic of the past, but as a hallmark of sustainable innovation in contemporary construction. This is especially valued at a time when the planet faces evident climate change and environmental degradation. This resurgence is not limited to isolated projects but could become widespread; according to a recent New York Times article, entire communities and even public buildings are beginning to adopt hemp as a key material. As regulations loosen and supply chains develop, hemp is poised to become a cornerstone of sustainable building practices, combining tradition with cutting-edge innovation.