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The construction landscape is shifting as innovative materials emerge in response to environmental concerns, particularly in the realm of home building. In Kelowna, B.C., a notable example has surfaced with the introduction of a house entirely insulated with hemp, a project spearheaded by the Wilden Group.
Josh Smith, the director of construction at The Wilden Group, has highlighted several advantages of using hemp insulation over traditional materials such as fiberglass. According to him, hemp insulation not only offers improved rigidity but also maintains its structure better over time. This unique property positions it as a forward-thinking solution in the pursuit of sustainable building practices.
This hemp-insulated home marks a significant milestone for Kelowna, as it represents a pioneering approach to construction in the region, aimed at integrating more sustainable materials into the industry.
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Karin Eger-Blenk, CEO of The Wilden Group, emphasizes the necessity of building with a future-focused mindset. She advocates for reducing a home’s energy demands and minimizing embodied carbon through careful material selection, which aligns with broader eco-friendly initiatives.
The functionality of hemp insulation extends beyond carbon absorption. It has been shown to retain warmth during colder months while keeping interiors cooler in the summer, making the home net zero-ready. Additionally, the material enhances soundproofing, contributing to a more comfortable living environment.
According to information provided by The Wilden Group, this innovative home will sequester 1,309 kg of carbon throughout its lifespan—equivalent to the carbon emissions resulting from burning approximately 1,600 pounds of coal. This remarkable statistic underscores the potential for hemp as a building material to contribute positively to environmental sustainability.
Eger-Blenk notes that the company is committed to innovating energy efficiency, indicating plans to construct homes that serve as testaments to improved practices, materials, and wall assemblies. The introduction of this hemp house not only aims to reduce the carbon footprint but also serves as an experimental venture to determine if this novel approach to construction resonates within the market.
Source
globalnews.ca