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The word “hemp” has some pretty obvious connotations. But long before its recreational purposes became well-known in recent decades, hemp plants were widely cultivated and used for very different purposes. It is important to note that despite their similar appearance, industrial hemp and marijuana are not the same. Industrial hemp does not produce the  THC-potent flowers of the cannabis plant, but rather, a strong, sustainable fiber that is extremely versatile. Traditionally used to make paper, canvas, rope and even fuel, hemp has renewed popularity due to its potential as a sustainable, eco-friendly resource.

Hemp is fast-growing, and can flourish in almost any environment with few to no herbicides, pesticides or fungicides. Its extensive root system enables it to replenish the soil, preventing erosion and providing nutrients for future crop production. This natural, renewable resource is biodegradable and recyclable, producing materials that are strong,  hypo-allergenic and UV resistant. The use of hemp for paper production can also go a long way towards reducing deforestation, as only one acre of hemp is required to produce the equivalent paper pulp of 4 acres of trees.

Unfortunately, industrial hemp cultivation was outlawed in the United States in 1937- due in large part to its association with marijuana- and and is still not legal to grow under federal law.

Luckily, many countries such as Canada, England, Australia, France and Germany allow commercial production of industrial hemp, which can be used to manufacture amazing, earth-friendly products like these!

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