The human race has been on the pathway to environmental redemption since we realised that mankind’s survival depends on the health of Mother Earth. How effective our marginal efforts have proven to be will only be seen by our great grandchildren. The most recent of these efforts has notably been the resurrection in public opinion of the versatility displayed by the Cannabaceae plant family.

Just to put some perspective on the scale of its uses we have put together some practical, everyday applications that are in development or used in everyday life by people like you and me. Most of us have seen the occasional article where the idea of using materials sourced from Hemp and Marijuana plants are placed into the science fiction genre of topics.

There are two main variations to consider when we define what Hemp actually is. Firstly, Hemp and Marijuana plants are both the same species. Typically, Hemp contains 0.3 percent THC or less, while marijuana has a level of 0.3 percent THC and up.

Hemp is a type of Cannabis Sativa, it is one of the most adaptive and fast growing species of plant on earth!

Hemp contains very little THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive chemical that brings about the intense feeling of euphoria when smoked or consumed. Although lacking in THC, Hemp has a higher concentration of CBD (Cannabidiol) which minimises or negates the psychoactive effects of THC.

Scientists have proven that Hemp was among one of the first domesticated plants and can be traced back to the Neolithic period in China. Early sixteenth century pioneers settling in the Americas were instructed to plant Hemp as a mandatory crop.

Some of the most looming issues we face on a daily basis can and are being solved by embracing Hemp in our everyday lives. For instance, looking at our carbon footprint which is largely determined by the amount of fossil fuels we use. This has caused great concern around the fast-approaching point of complete resource exhaustion that has been caused by big corporations which has led to environmental destruction beyond measure. As these levels quickly decline, so the price of traveling to your local grocery store increases. What if we could literally grow a plant for fuel?

Biofuel and Biodiesel

Hemp is one of the most sustainable and cost-effective means of producing fuel. Two main avenues of cheap and environmentally friendly fuel can be derived from the Hemp plant.

Besides the biofuel, which can be made from the fibrous stalks, biodiesel can be produced from the oils present in the seeds and stalks. The processing stages are not detrimental to the environment and leave very little if any damage in their wake. It can be argued that more agricultural land will need to be made available in order to satisfy the demand for this type of fuel. A simple solution would be to replace commercial low profit produce with Hemp cultivation. With a minimal capital investment, farmers could very well have the answer to endless issues associated with other traditional crops

Hempcrete

Hemp fibre is incredibly strong, and it is that very unique attribute which has seen developments with using Hemp in construction. Hempcrete has limitless potential and is redefining the way we build. Utilising the woody core that is removed in the processing stage and combining it with lime and pozzolanic additives forms the foundation for what will be cast into blocks or bricks for building. Some of the benefits of using Hempcrete include good thermal insulation, but it can also translate into direct cost savings due to its impressive thermal mass which is well above international standards. The cost of electricity has a great impact on our quality of life. In countries where seasonal changes are extreme, Hempcrete can reduce household energy expenditure by up to eighty percent.

Clothing and Textiles

Clothing and textiles are another good example of how Hemp has revolutionised an industry. The blast fibres (long fibres) surround the hurd which is made up of short fibres, these are processed and used to produce a multitude of everyday items including clothing and is now being utilised in upholstery manufacturing. Hemp has some of the most desirable physical characteristics required to manufacture materials of strength and quality when compared to cotton and synthetics. It is a great insulator and is a breathable fabric that allows the material to become softer over time. Dyed Hemp will also stay true to the original colour for a longer period.

Vitamins and Supplements

Hemp seeds are technically a nut that has gained a massive following amongst health enthusiasts world-wide and has been recognised as being one of nature’s true superfoods!

Hemp seeds contain omega-3 (Alpha Linoleic acid) and omega-6 (Linoleic acid), essential in strengthening your immune system. The seeds are completely utilised as every molecule contained within has a rich nutritional profile. With high levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants as well as fatty acids the

Hemp seed is some of mother natures finest work!