Research and enterprise for sustainable hemp products and buildings

This paper presents a research work aimed at promoting eco- sustainability and biocompatibility in the construction sector through a collabora- tion between the University and local entrepreneurs, according to the guidelines of the European Community. The study concerns the use of hemp sativa for the manufacturing of products and building elements and the use of these in the rede- velopment of existing buildings or in the construction of new buildings with low environmental weight. Having recognized the potential of hemp (especially as regards the provision of wellness, environmental protection and safety benefits) in the creation of an architecture that is friendly to man and the environment, the study focuses on the advantages of raw material use in building interventions (consider- ing the environmental criticality characterizing the contemporary landscape) and the environmental limits to be overcome with specific assessments for the same products. For the use of hemp in construction, the relationships between the mate- rial, the life of the buildings, the architectural quality, the images of the landscapes and the possible repercussions in terms of sustainable development. That is the way for defining beauty-oriented solutions through the dialogue between build- ings and ecosystems, for the quality of human life. The critical points of the life cycle phases of the examined hemp-based products are also highlighted, to guide effective evaluation processes, according to regenerative approaches inspired by nature. The work, referring to the context of the Abruzzo region (Italy), aims to provide a tangible contribution to the triggering of circular economies and building practices characterized by a strong balance between man, architecture and nature.