Posted on Leave a comment

Hemp can help: Nature’s Swiss Army Knife to a Sustainable Future (and it Doesn’t Even Need a Battery Pack)

Hemp can help: Nature’s Swiss Army Knife to a Sustainable Future (and it Doesn’t Even Need a Battery Pack)

Let’s face it, folks, the planet needs a makeover. Climate change is doing the Macarena on our glaciers, plastic islands are chilling in the oceans like uninvited guests at a pool party, and the whole “sustainable living” thing can feel about as exciting as watching paint dry.

But fear not, eco-warriors and weary consumers alike! Enter hemp, the world’s most underappreciated superhero with a resume longer than your grocery list. This isn’t your stoner uncle’s cannabis (though hemp’s cooler, cousin can take some credit for the good mood); hemp is a powerhouse plant with the potential to revolutionize our world – and it does it all without needing a cape or a costume change.

Need clothes that are comfy, stylish, and made from a plant that practically grows itself? Hemp’s got your back (and your legs, and your arms). Craving a building material that’s strong, fire-resistant, and good for the environment? Hemp’s got your roof (and your walls, if you’re feeling adventurous). Looking for a biofuel that doesn’t involve arguing with your spouse at the gas pump? Hemp’s whispering sweet nothings in your gas tank (okay, maybe not literally, but you get the idea).

Hemp’s benefits don’t stop at your carbon footprint. This wonder plant is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with protein and healthy fats that can keep you feeling energized and ready to tackle that overflowing recycling bin. Hemp-derived CBD oil is also gaining traction for its potential to alleviate anxiety, pain, and inflammation, basically turning you into a zen master who can finally compost that banana peel without existential dread.

But wait, there’s more! Hemp is a champion of economic equity. Because it requires minimal resources to grow and thrives in various climates, it can empower farmers and create new opportunities in rural communities. This translates to a more vibrant and equitable economy, which means everyone gets to win (except maybe those landfills overflowing with plastic).

So ditch the single-use plastics, swap your sweatpants for some comfy hemp joggers, and consider investing in a hemp-based surfboard (they’re a thing, and they’re awesome). Hemp may not be able to solve world hunger overnight, but it’s a mighty big step towards a future that’s good for the planet, good for our health, and good for our wallets. Hemp can help. Let’s give it a chance.

Posted on Leave a comment

EIHA: Hemp in Europe: The situation of hemp today  

Hemp in Europe

The situation of hemp today  

Today, the Common Agriculture Policy is responsible for establishing the maximum THC level allowed for industrial hemp on the field. Many EU countries still prohibit or have unclear regulations about the use and marketing of flowers, incorrectly considered as narcotic, even if the THC level is below the established thresholds in the EU regulation for industrial hemp. In order for hemp to be a profitable crop, farmers need to be allowed to maximise their income through the utilisation of the whole plant, especially the flowers and leaves. That is why, EIHA defends a “whole plant” approach (#unlockthepotential).

Hemp transformers source 90% of their raw material within Europe. More than half of flowers and leaves traded in Europe are used for the production of food supplements, including CBD extracts. When it comes to textiles, because of the relatively high raw material prices, the lack of fibre supply and the scarcity of manufacturing facilities, production is limited as it mainly represents a niche market. A huge consumers market existed for hemp fibres until after World War II. Just to give you an idea, in the 1930s Russia’s hemp area sown was almost 700,000 hectares, providing for 40% of Europe’s hemp needs. In comparison, Italy and Yugoslavia accounted for up to 100,000 hectares each. Currently the EU combined barely grows 50,000 hectares. France is currently the biggest producer, followed by Italy and the Netherlands.

Even though Europe has not unlocked the full potential of hemp, the industry is rapidly growing.  In fact, from 2013 to 2018, there was a 70% increase in the number of hectares dedicated to industrial hemp cultivation in Europe. If we compare it to 1993 figures, the number of hectares has increased 614% since.

Find more information about hemp production here!

EIHA Website