Hemp insulation is a composite material but one that is very eco-friendly. Instead of consisting of 51% plant fibers and 49% plastics and chemicals, hemp insulation contains as much as 92% hemp and about 8% polyester fibers. Non-toxic bonding agents and fire treatment make up the rest of the composite.

Hemp insulation is most often available to be purchased in batts. The batts are thick (3.5″ to 5.5″) and compressible, so they look more like something found in a soundproofed recording studio than the thinner fiberglass batts most homeowners are familiar with.

Hemp insulation is viewed as an alternative to fiberglass and foam – one that has less impact on the environment during manufacturing. Since hemp is a natural plant product, the insulation offers organic advantages when installed and disregarded.