Sergiy Kovalenkov first encountered hemp and hemp houses in Australia. He was fascinated by this building material, which has many advantages. It is all-natural, energy efficient, durable, regulates humidity, does not burn or rot, repels pests, and offers many other benefits. In terms of quality of life, it provides an acoustically soothing and pleasant environment. He worked for years on various projects, which eventually led to the creation of his own company.
Ukrain
The company, called Hempire, is currently renovating an old farmhouse in western Ukraine. The building is being converted for children and refugees orphaned by war. Their aim is to use only local materials for their projects. We organised a seminar with architects and engineers and taught the refugees how to use and install hemp concrete. We entrusted our master to manage the project. The first phase of the building will house 30 families. The second part will be a rehabilitation centre for war veterans and victims to help them overcome PTSD and other mental and physical disorders. We will also invite US war veterans to learn how to use hempcrete and provide them with meals and accommodation. In return, they will help Ukrainian war veterans and victims recover, as they can provide valuable support through their experience.
Expansion and future
Hempire is already present in the United States, where it is actively seeking partners and distributors for further expansion. Sergiy is optimistic about the future of hemp cultivation and processing, with a number of new factories being set up, several of which he has personally visited. However, he believes that public support to help farmers to make the necessary investments and purchase the necessary technology is essential for the long-term survival and development of the industry.
A number of new partnerships are in the pipeline, but they are currently focusing on their projects in Ukraine. These projects are donor funded, so funding is key to their success. Hempcrete could be the future of the construction industry and if they were able to deliver projects like this in Ukraine, during a time of war, overcoming many obstacles, then it is possible anywhere in the world. With this innovative material, they can not only create sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, but also give new hope and opportunities to those who need it most.
