Federation of International Hemp Organizations
FIHO invites diverse entities, such as hemp associations, companies, and governments, fostering global collaboration. Its inclusive structure aims to establish a unified regulatory framework for hemp, emphasizing applications in industries like food, textiles, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, construction, furniture, and packaging.
Overview of the project
FIHO was launched in 2022 by 20 organizations representing the hemp sector in Africa, Asia, North and Latin America, Australia and Europe, with the objective to bring together actors from the industrial hemp sector globally, be an interlocutor to the international agencies (UN, OECD and others), develop knowledge and understanding about hemp and promote hemp as a sustainable product. FIHO will dedicate particular attention to establishing a globally harmonized, regulatory framework for hemp and its derived products, which will lead to a well-functioning trade system and an increase in cultivation areas. FIHO will raise awareness around the application of industrial hemp in diverse industries expected to drive the market, including residential and commercial construction materials and systems. FIHO works with thematic committees: Research and Standards, Policy and Regulation, Communication and Engagement, Sustainability.
FIHO, launched in 2022 by 20 global organizations, unites the industrial hemp sector, serves as a liaison to international agencies, and promotes hemp as a sustainable product.
implementation
Project still in progress
FIHO and its members promote industrial hemp as a sustainable way to build. Hemp has several benefits when used in building and construction:
- Sustainability: Hemp is a sustainable material because it is easy to grow and does not require the use of pesticides or herbicides. Moreover, it has a high yield per acre compared to other crops, and it can be grown in a variety of climates.
- Energy efficiency: Hemp is an excellent insulator, which means that it can help to reduce heating and cooling costs. It is also fire-resistant, which makes it a safer option than some other materials.
- Durability: Hemp is a strong and durable material that can withstand the elements, making it an excellent choice for building structures that can last for many years.
- Breathability: Hemp has natural breathability, which means that it can help to regulate humidity levels and prevent mould growth.
- Versatility: Hemp can be used in a variety of building applications, including insulation, flooring, roofing, and wall systems. It can also be used to make concrete-like materials, which can be used to construct walls, foundations, and other structures.
Overall, using hemp in building and construction offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional building materials, while also providing several other benefits such as energy efficiency, durability, and versatility.
organisation
FIHO membership is open to Large Supranational and National Hemp Associations; Small Supranational and National Hemp Associations; Subnational Hemp Associations; Hemp Companies and Individuals; Governments, Research Institutes, and aligned Non-Hemp Not-for-Profit Organizations. This is now a very big tent that is structured in a way so as not to exclude valid hemp entities while balancing voting rights across each Supranational, National, and Subnational jurisdiction. FIHO will dedicate particular attention to the establishment of a globally harmonized, regulatory framework for hemp and its derived products, which will lead to a well functioning trade system and an increase in cultivation areas. FIHO will raise awareness around application of industrial hemp in diverse industries which are expected to drive the market, such as: food and beverage; woven and non-woven textiles; pharmaceutical and natural health (humans and animals) products; cosmetics and personal care; residential and commercial construction materials and systems; furniture; paper and packaging.