About Hemp
Discover the versatile plant transforming sustainable agriculture
What is Hemp?
Hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that is grown specifically for industrial and agricultural uses. Unlike marijuana, hemp contains minimal THC (less than 0.3%) and has been cultivated for thousands of years for fiber, seeds, and oil.
Hemp vs. Marijuana
Industrial Hemp
THC content: Less than 0.3%
Grown for: Fiber, seeds, oil, CBD
Plant structure: Tall and fibrous
Legal status: Federally legal (2018 Farm Bill)
Uses: Construction, textiles, food, biofuel
Marijuana
THC content: 5-30%+
Grown for: Psychoactive compounds
Plant structure: Short and bushy
Legal status: Varies by state
Uses: Medical and recreational
Benefits of Hemp
Hemp offers environmental, economic, and cultural benefits for indigenous communities and sustainable agriculture
Environmental
• Sequesters carbon from atmosphere
• Improves soil health and structure
• Requires minimal pesticides
• Phytoremediates contaminated soil
• Reduces water usage vs. cotton
• Biodegradable and renewable
Economic
• Multiple revenue streams per crop
• Growing market demand
• Value-added product opportunities
• Job creation in rural areas
• Supports local economies
• Federal farm bill support
Cultural
• Revives traditional agriculture
• Supports tribal sovereignty
• Preserves indigenous knowledge
• Strengthens community bonds
• Promotes food sovereignty
• Cultural healing and restoration
Hemp Applications
Explore the diverse uses of hemp across industries
Hemp & Climate Resiliency
Hemp is one of nature's most effective carbon-capturing crops, absorbing 8-22 tons of CO2 per hectare annually—more efficient than forests. Its deep root system improves soil structure, prevents erosion, and enhances water retention. Hemp cultivation requires minimal pesticides and herbicides while enriching the soil with organic matter. Research shows hemp's mycorrhizal associations boost nutrient uptake and stress tolerance, making it ideal for regenerative agriculture systems that combat climate change.
Hemp in Bioremediation
Hemp's extensive root system and remarkable ability to absorb heavy metals make it a powerful tool for cleaning contaminated soil and water. Studies demonstrate hemp effectively removes cadmium, lead, nickel, zinc, copper, and arsenic from polluted sites. This process, called phytoremediation, allows hemp to restore ecosystems damaged by industrial pollution while producing biomass that can be converted into bioenergy or other value-added products. Indigenous communities are using hemp to heal lands affected by mining and industrial contamination.
Hempcrete & Construction
Hempcrete is a revolutionary carbon-negative building material made from hemp hurds, lime, and water. It provides superior thermal and acoustic insulation while being breathable, mold-resistant, and non-toxic. Hempcrete walls regulate humidity naturally and can last for centuries. The material sequesters carbon throughout its lifetime, making buildings climate-positive. Indigenous communities like the Lower Sioux are pioneering hempcrete construction for sustainable, culturally-appropriate housing that honors traditional building practices while embracing modern sustainability.
Hemp and Paper Products
Hemp produces 4-10 times more paper per acre than trees over a 20-year cycle and grows 60 times faster. Hemp paper requires fewer chemicals, less water, and less energy to manufacture than wood pulp paper. Its long, strong cellulose fibers create durable paper that resists yellowing and can be recycled up to seven times—more than double traditional paper. Hemp paper has been used for centuries, including for the Declaration of Independence, and offers a sustainable solution to deforestation.
Hemp in Textiles
Hemp fabric is 4 times more durable and 8 times more stretchy than cotton while using 95% less water during cultivation. Hemp grows without synthetic pesticides or herbicides and can be cultivated on the same land for 14 years without depleting soil. The fabric is naturally antimicrobial, UV-resistant, and biodegrades within 6-12 months. Hemp textiles have been used for thousands of years, and modern processing techniques create soft, breathable fabrics perfect for clothing, home goods, and technical applications.
Hemp and Bioplastics
Hemp bioplastics offer a biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, breaking down naturally within 2-12 months without toxic residues. Hemp-based plastics are mechanically strong, lightweight, and suitable for packaging, automotive parts, and consumer goods. Hemp cultivation for bioplastics acts as a carbon sink, and production requires less energy and emits fewer greenhouse gases than conventional plastics. As plastic pollution threatens ecosystems worldwide, hemp bioplastics provide a sustainable solution that doesn't compromise performance.
Hemp Foods
Hemp seeds are a nutritional powerhouse containing all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source. They're rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in an optimal 2:1 or 3:1 ratio, plus vitamins E, D, A, and magnesium. Hemp seeds support heart health, aid digestion with high fiber content, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. They can be eaten raw, pressed into oil, or processed into milk, protein powder, and cheese alternatives. The FDA recognizes hemp seeds as 'generally recognized as safe' (GRAS) for human consumption.
Ready to Start Growing Hemp?
Join our co-op to access resources, training, and support for hemp cultivation