Why The USA Should Be Growing Industrial Hemp

I’m going to kick things off by introducing you to a plant that’s rapidly gaining fame for all the right reasons: Industrial Hemp. I’m not talking about the kind that gets you high; that’s a common misconception. Industrial hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species, grown specifically for industrial uses of its derived products.

Now what sets industrial hemp apart from its more notorious cousin, medical-grade cannabis? Simple: it’s all in the THC levels. THC, the psychoactive component, is present in only trace amounts in industrial hemp—typically less than 0.3%—meaning it can’t produce a high. Medical cannabis, on the other hand, contains higher levels of THC and is used for different purposes altogether.

When it comes to growing and harvesting, industrial hemp is pretty low maintenance. It’s resilient, grows quickly, and doesn’t need a treasure trove of pesticides to thrive. Plus, it’s harvested differently depending on the intended use—fiber, seeds, or oil—which diversifies how this plant can be utilized.

Guess what they are? Industrial hemp plants are environment-friendly powerhouses, capable of enhancing the soil, saving water, and even purifying the air. That’s just the starter—harvesting hemp also paves the way for a healthier economy, providing raw materials that could potentially spawn an industry boom.

So consider this the curtain-raiser of an important dialogue. This isn’t just about resurrecting a plant from the sidelines of agriculture; it’s also about embracing an ally that promises to enrich both the planet and our pockets. Stick around, as we delve into the myriad of ways industrial hemp leaves its green mark—both financially and ecologically.

Industrial Hemp’s Environmental and Economic Impact

I’m going to lay out just how profound an impact industrial hemp can have, both environmentally and economically. This isn’t just about growing a crop; it’s also about growing opportunities. Hemp was once a staple during the early stages of the Industrial Revolution. However, its potential was significantly curtailed by strict legislation dating back to the 20th century, which lumped hemp with other forms of cannabis, despite its low THC levels and its clear differences in use and cultivation.

You’re going to find out about the inherent eco-friendliness of hemp agriculture. It’s a crop that requires relatively little water compared to traditional crops like cotton, and it’s resilient against pests, typically reducing the need for pesticides. Because industrial hemp grows speedily and densely, it’s highly efficient at CO2 absorption, which is a fancy way of saying it’s great for the environment. When we harness hemp integrally, it means less impact on ecosystems and a healthier planet.

In my opinion, there’s a lot of potential in terms of economic benefits too. The demand for sustainable products is climbing rapidly, and hemp can be transformed into thousands of products including textiles, biofuel, building materials, and even bioplastics. With the right investment, hemp agriculture could revitalize rural economies, create jobs, and contribute to a greener economy. Investing in hemp could be a major win-win for both nature and human well-being.

Now, if you want to think about the long-term perspectives, don’t worry too much about the immediate transitions. The hemp industry, with its broad-ranging applications, represents a renewable sector that is virtually untapped in the USA. Widespread hemp cultivation could make significant inroads into a sustainable future, ushering in a new era where the economy operates in harmony with the environment. And that’s where the renewable lifecycle of hemp, which I’ll cover next, plays a crucial part in promoting sustainability.

The Renewable Resource: Hemp’s Lifecycle and Sustainability

Now, let’s talk about the remarkable renewability of hemp. When I say hemp is a renewable resource, I mean that it can be grown and replenished rapidly, making it a poster child for sustainable practices. Unlike some crops that deplete the soil, hemp actually improves it, leaving a rich bed for future plants or crops. This is a game-changer for farmers looking for crop rotation options that maintain fertile land.

Take its lifecycle, for example. From the moment a hemp seed is planted, it’s on a mission to enrich the environment. Hemp grows incredibly fast, reaching maturity in about four months. During this time, it’s not just sitting pretty in the fields; it’s absorbing carbon dioxide at a notable rate and releasing oxygen, contributing to a healthier atmosphere.

Here’s the kicker: hemp doesn’t stop giving back after the harvest. The entire plant is useful, from the seeds to the stalk. While the seeds go into making nutritious food products, the stalks and fibers find their way into a wide variety of goods, such as paper, textiles, and building materials. All these products continue to store carbon throughout their lifetime. And when they eventually break down, they do so in a way that’s kinder to the planet than many synthetic counterparts.

In economic terms, this versatility translates to multiple revenue streams for those cultivating and processing hemp. Farmers can benefit from both the sale of raw materials and partnerships with companies that convert these materials into consumer products. Instead of relying on a single crop yield, hemp offers diverse opportunities that can bolster economic resilience, especially in rural communities.

It’s not just about what hemp does in the ground or during its primary use; it’s also how it concludes its journey. At the end of its product life, hemp can often be composted, returning valuable nutrients to the soil and completing a cycle that’s as close to zero waste as you can get in the agricultural world.

Carbon Footprint and Recyclability: Hemp’s Environmental Edge

I’m going to explain a crucial advantage of industrial hemp that might just blow your mind: its role in carbon sequestration. Simply put, hemp plants are carbon-capture powerhouses. Through photosynthesis, they suck in CO2 from the atmosphere, storing carbon within their fibers. This isn’t just during the initial growth phase; it’s throughout their entire life cycle, from sprout to harvest.

Now, let’s talk about what happens after the hemp is turned into products. Guess what? They maintain their environmental friendliness. Whether it’s hemp clothing, paper, or bioplastics, these products often have a lower carbon footprint compared to their non-hemp counterparts due to the carbon they’ve already locked away.

I am going to fill you in on another remarkable trait of hemp products: their recyclability. Hemp products are often more recyclable than those made from materials like plastic or cotton. This is because they require fewer chemicals during processing, which makes them easier to reuse or biodegrade, causing minimal impact on the planet.

Don’t worry too much about the technicalities; the bottom line is that hemp helps us leave a lighter ecological footprint. Choosing hemp means not just investing in a product, but investing in our planet’s future. The impact of choosing hemp can be the difference between a step toward sustainability or maintaining a status quo that isn’t working.

In my opinion, the shift to hemp could be revolutionary. The USA has the chance to lead this change by embracing hemp production and innovation. Adopting hemp widely could significantly contribute to reducing our carbon footprint and fostering a more sustainable and resilient environment.

Advancing the Industrial Hemp Revolution in the USA

I’m going to paint a picture of where we stand today. The USA is at a pivotal moment when it comes to industrial hemp. The plant that was once misunderstood and undervalued is now recognized for its immense potential across various sectors. If you want to see the United States lead rather than follow in the global market, it’s time to embrace the Industrial Hemp Revolution.

You can do more than just read about the benefits of hemp. You’re going to find that choosing to support companies like Hemp Traders, 8000KICKS, and WAMA Hemp Underwear sets an example for market demand. These brands aren’t just about selling products; they’re about promoting a sustainable future. And when you buy their goods, you’re not just a consumer; you’re a change-maker.

But don’t stop there. You’ve got the power to directly influence legislation. Casting a vote for improved hemp laws can propel this movement forward. In my opinion, involving yourself in local politics and supporting policies that encourage hemp cultivation is just as crucial as your purchasing choices. This isn’t just about today; your actions contribute to a greener, more prosperous tomorrow for everybody.

Just consider how much industrial hemp can enrich our planet, from carbon sequestration to creating recyclable products that ease our environmental footprint. The more hemp we grow, the stronger the statement we make about valuing our world and its resources.

Choose something that resonates with you, whether it’s advocating for hemp at a community level, buying eco-friendly hemp products, or using your voice at the ballot box.

Remember, your first attempt doesn’t need to be your last. We’re in this together – for the planet, the economy, and the Industrial Hemp Revolution. Let’s make it happen.

As always, thank you for reading my article, and please leave a comment below, and join in on the conversation.

Stacie Fortson, GGWHSF