Plastic has become an indispensable part of our everyday lives, serving countless purposes from packaging to manufacturing. Yet, its environmental impact is destructive, both for our bodies and the planet. Hidden in plain sight, there exists a sustainable alternative that dates back centuries: hemp plastic. This article delves into the history, benefits, and future possibilities of hemp plastic, providing insight into why it should be embraced by industries worldwide.
A brief history of hemp plastic
Before American prohibition, hemp was a thriving industry used to produce items ranging from water bottles to car parts. Despite being a strain of the Cannabis plant, industrial hemp contains negligible amounts of THC, the psychoactive component found in marijuana. Consequently, it does not share the intoxicating effects associated with traditional cannabis.
Hemp plants are predominantly male and don’t produce flowers, which means they are primarily utilized for their fibers and seeds. Starting in Europe and China almost two decades ago, hemp plastic began gaining traction. Historical records show that prior to the 1937 Marihuana Tax Act, hemp plastic was already a burgeoning industry in the United States. Even after it was banned, production continued until the mid-1940s.
Revolutionary applications: Henry Ford’s hemp automobile
One of the most significant advancements in hemp plastic usage was Henry Ford’s 1941 Hemp Automobile. Far from just a novelty, Ford’s creation demonstrated the material’s resilience, with the car capable of withstanding impacts ten times stronger than those made from steel and being 1,000 pounds lighter. Although plans for further prototypes stalled, major automotive companies today, such as Mercedes, Chrysler, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, and even Ford itself, have started incorporating hemp plastic into their vehicle models.
Other common uses of hemp plastic
Beyond automobiles, hemp plastic serves numerous functions. Its durability and biocompatibility make it ideal for producing electronics, containers, toys, cosmetics, bottles, bags, boats, and furniture. The primary substance derived from hemp that facilitates these applications is cellulose.
Typically used to produce paper, cellulose can also create various plastic materials, including cellophane, rayon, and celluloid. With around 65-70% cellulose content per hemp plant, it presents an efficient resource for large-scale plastic production. The rediscovery of hemp post-prohibition underscores its myriad advantages as both a material and an environmentally friendly alternative.
Environmental benefits of hemp plastic
When considering its environmental impact, hemp plastic shines brightly. From the moment a hemp seed is planted, it begins benefiting the earth. Hemp’s growth cycle restores soil health and reduces reliance on pesticides. Once manufactured into plastic, its biodegradability remains unmatched; under suitable conditions, hemp plastic products can decompose entirely within six months.
Moreover, unlike other crops confined to specific geographical areas, hemp thrives anywhere in the United States. This versatility greatly amplifies its production potential compared to conventional crops. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, one acre of hemp can yield four times more paper than one acre of trees, signifying similar productivity for hemp plastic and other derivatives like hempcrete.
A cash crop waiting to be harvested
During America’s early years, hemp production flourished legally. The plant’s low maintenance requirements and high adaptability marked it as an invaluable crop. Surprisingly, despite these clear attributes, modern hemp production remains restricted in the US due to legislation dating back to 1937.
Speculation surrounds the influence of the DuPont family and their paper empire leading to the enactment of the Marihuana Tax Act, which severely curtailed hemp cultivation. However, changes have been underway since February 7, 2014, when then-President Barack Obama signed the Agricultural Act of 2014, permitting industrial hemp research under Section 7606 titled Legitimacy of Industrial Hemp Research.
Global stance on hemp plastic
Internationally, hemp production enjoys widespread legitimacy. Currently legalized and thriving in 23 countries across Europe, Australia, Canada, China, and many others, hemp’s global acceptance continues to grow. Advancements spearheaded by farmers, activists, conscious consumers, businesses, and policymakers signal significant momentum toward integrating hemp plastic on a broader scale.
Given its exceptional properties and transformative potential, it’s high time the United States follows suit and fully legalizes hemp production nationwide. By doing so, the environmental and economic benefits could reshape industries dependent on traditional plastics.
A brighter, greener future
Hemp plastic represents a revolutionary solution to the plastic problem currently plaguing the planet. Its strength, versatility, and environmentally conscious profile make it an excellent substitute for petroleum-based plastics pervasive in today’s market. With support from diverse stakeholders and enabling policies, the complete adoption of hemp plastic could be closer than we think, heralding a sustainable and prosperous future.