Industrial hemp: key to a more sustainable future?

What does the UN say about industrial hemp?

I'm not saying it, but the UN with a new report from UNCTAD, the UN agency for Trade and Development, which reaffirms the important role that hemp could play in the global ecological transition.

In summary, what does it state:

"Climate change and its impact on the lives of billions of people require innovative solutions. An intriguing perspective could be the support and promotion of the industrial hemp sector, utilizing all parts of the plant to enhance their value. The widespread use of hemp could be implemented in many regions of the world, helping to create diverse production chains. The value chains of industrial hemp could have a positive impact on the climate and the environment, potentially being carbon negative and sustainable. This could effectively integrate into sustainable development strategies and the transition to clean energy sources. Global experiences highlight the need for regulations and governmental institutions to support a full exploitation of the industrial hemp plant."

The global industrial hemp market

UN data on food and agriculture indicates that 40 countries produce industrial hemp, with China, France, and the Netherlands leading in production and international trade.

Canada and the United States are emerging as significant producers. The annual trade of industrial hemp, according to international data, would be less than 50 million dollars, but broader estimates suggest a figure at least 6-7 times higher, considering the limited coverage of products in official statistics.

My considerations: the problem is that in this sector investments are very difficult to make, at least in Italy.

The uncertainty and variability of regulations create significant problems in this regard.

Furthermore, it's necessary to consider the entire supply chain to enhance all parts of the plant. History teaches us that as Italy we could say something: in the early decades of the 1900s, we were among the world's leading producers, with areas reaching up to 90 thousand hectares.

Do we want a sustainable world? Let’s also invest in hemp!