HEMP IS NOT MARIJUANA
While they come from the same plant species, Cannabis sativa L., Hemp is a versatile plant cultivated for thousands of years for its fiber, seeds, and oil. Unlike its close relative marijuana, hemp contains very low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound that produces a "high." Instead, hemp is prized for its industrial and nutritional uses. Historically, hemp has been used to make rope, textiles, and paper, and it played a significant role in early global trade. Today, it is recognised as a sustainable crop with over 25,000 other practical applications, including; construction, fuel, food and cleaning up the environment (our passion).
Key Definitions
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Hemp commonly refers to Cannabis Sativa plants used for fibre, however the term can also be used in reference to the fibre which is obtained from the plants stalk.
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A class of hemp designed for industrial use, containing no more than 0.02% THC by dry weight
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Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a cannabinoid within the cannabis plant which is the chemical responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
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Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most prevalent active ingredients in cannabis and does not cause a ‘high’. It is derived directly from the hemp plant, and is believed to be promising in alleviating pain, and in treating conditions such as anxiety
Hemp Benefits
Hemp is one of the most versatile, prolific & synergistic tools available to tackle key environmental challenges, such as CO2 & land contamination.
Hemp bio-remediates contaminated soil, improves soil structure & nutrient levels, and can lead to greater yields in follow-on crops, such as wheat.
Hemp grows without the need for pesticides or herbicides & needs minimal water. It’s one of the most effective CO2 offsets, as it can grow up to 5 metres in only 3-4 months.
Hemp is a sustainable raw material & can make approximately 10,000+ environmentally responsible & bio-degradable products including plastics, fuel & fibre.
Most importantly Hemp can empower small local communities by providing local manufacturing & industry.
History of Hemp
Hemp was one of the first cultivated fibre plants with records of its Harvest being dated back approximately 8500 years. Archaeological findings link its origins to ancient Neolithic civilizations in China, evident through hemp imprints discovered on pottery. Throughout the years, hemp served diverse purposes, from ropes and fabrics to medicinal applications. Whilst Hemp was cultivated for years, it met its eventual decline around the 19th century following the increase of cotton.
Hemp in the UK
Historically, Low THC Cannabis Sativa Hemp has deep roots in England, with mandatory hemp cultivation during the reigns of King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I . The fibers were crucial for the national navy, supporting everything from ropes to sails and facilitating British global exploration.
The Importance of Hemp in WWII
While hemp usage declined in the 20th century, World War II necessitated a resurgence of hemp in the UK to address the shortage of fibers for military needs, such as rope. However, this soon came to a halt following the global ban in 1961.
Misuse Of Drugs Act 1971
In 1961, the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs in 1961 was passed, enforcing a global ban on the entire Cannabis genus. Following this, the UK passed the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which imposed significant restrictions. Although legal cultivation resumed in the United Kingdom in 1993, the hemp flower remains prohibited as a controlled substance.
Industrial uses of hemp
Uses of Hemp
Hemp is one of the most versatile plants on Earth, with applications spanning multiple industries:
Textiles: Hemp fibers are strong, durable, and naturally resistant to mold and UV rays, making them ideal for clothing, bags, and upholstery.
Paper: Hemp pulp can be used to produce paper that is more sustainable and longer-lasting than wood-based paper.
Construction: Hempcrete, a mixture of hemp hurds (the inner woody core) and lime, is a lightweight, insulating, and eco-friendly building material.
Food: Hemp seeds and oil are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making them a popular addition to diets.
Biofuels: Hemp can be processed into biodiesel and ethanol, offering a renewable energy source.
Plastics: Hemp-based bioplastics are biodegradable and can reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics.
Hemp is a champion of sustainability and environmental health:
Fast Growth: Hemp grows quickly, reaching maturity in just 3-4 months, making it a highly efficient crop.
Soil Health: Hemp has deep roots that prevent soil erosion and can even remediate contaminated soil by absorbing toxins (a process called phytoremediation).
Carbon Sequestration: Hemp absorbs large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to combat climate change.
Low Water Usage: Compared to crops like cotton, hemp requires significantly less water to grow.
Pesticide-Free: Hemp is naturally resistant to pests, reducing the need for harmful chemical pesticides.
Hemp Farming and the Environment
Legal Status and The Future of Hemp
The legal landscape for hemp has evolved significantly in recent years:
2018 Farm Bill (U.S.): This legislation legalised the cultivation and sale of industrial hemp, defining it as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
Global Regulations: Many countries, including Canada, Australia, and members of the European Union, have also legalised hemp production for industrial and commercial use.
Economic Potential: The global hemp market is growing rapidly, driven by demand for sustainable products, CBD, and hemp-based foods. Experts predict continued expansion as more industries recognise hemp's potential.
Research and Innovation: Ongoing research is uncovering new uses for hemp, from biodegradable plastics to advanced medical applications, paving the way for a greener future.
Learn about the CHCX-3 project research aiming to help UK farmers and growers target Net Zero or read more about Hemp research in our Library