Keeling Curve

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Project Summary / Description:

The goal of DrawdownHemp is to jump start a new industry that can sequester CO2 from the atmosphere as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. The group formed late spring of 2021 and for the past six months has investigated 18 ways hemp can sequester and/or avoid 10 million to 2 billion (Gt) of Greenhouse Gasses per year. 

We have identified and quantified a technology that is clearly the fastest, most efficient, and least expensive means for pulling CO2 out of the atmosphere. Patented by nature, this process is photosynthesis. Cultivating industrial hemp, the fastest CO2 absorbing rotational crop capable of pulling 15 tonnes of CO2 per per harvested hectare, we can harvest biomass for multiple building materials that will sequester the CO2 for 100s of years. 

The technology and processes for this approach all currently exist, but have not been combined into one approach and are not being implemented because of many constraints. DrawdownHemp is focussed on removing these barriers by presenting proof of concept, testing materials, evaluating CO2 sequestration, price, and land requirement, and outlining a streamlined process from field to foundation. The combination of best-of solutions differentiates our unique approach. 

And the benefits continue. Once we have a negative carbon foundation, we can build hemp lime carbon negative houses that don't burn, that don't mold, and that don't contain toxic materials. We can build back better and create green new jobs. This is the single largest opportunity of our lifetime.

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Best Estimate of GHG Avoidance/Reduction of This Project (Tonnes CO2 Equivalent/Year):

Impact on Underrepresented Groups:

Our solution will not only remove CO2 from the atmosphere and restore soil health, it will revive the economy of boom and bust towns around the country, ideally creating new jobs in every town with a closed mill, mine or factory. Our approach is based on localizing all parts of the process, and we will therefore be very connected with the communities. We will partner with the local industries and farmers and include them at the table on all business planning. In no case will we be removing jobs or environmental quality from a community, so we feel that including all voices will be easier than most industrial development. Our First Nation/indigenous team member Alicia Falls will interface regularly with tribal leadership, and we are actively seeking a site in North America. Preferably, the site will be on a reservation with a cement production facility. One site under consideration is a 90 acre, abandoned air force base in Maine which has been designated as a superfund site in need of soil phytoremediation.

Along with its ability to sequester Atmospheric CO2, Hemp is known to provide high quality biochar, remediate soils, support local pollinators, and provide food and resources for the community whenever they need it, making our project a great conversation starter in every community and empowering those who do not typically have the means or voice to support climate justice.

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