Exploring the Versatility and Sustainability of Hemp Fiber
Exploring the advantages of Hemp Fiber: A Sustainable Solution for Modern Textiles
Hemp is a natural fibre that is derived from the bast fibres of the Cannabis sativa plant. This natural fiber has a plethora of advantages that span environmental sustainability, durability, and versatility. Once a powerhouse crop widely utilised in many different industries, Hemp production has become more of a fringe crop, but a resurgence of interest in this plant is taking place.
Factors behind Hemp's popularity downturn
Although Hemp was widely adopted for many years, being utilised in clothing, rope, and sails, it's popularity has dwindled since due to changes in regulations, social attitudes, and the rise of competing fibres.
Strict regulation
The 20th century saw strict regulation implemented around cultivating Hemp due to its association with marijuana. Hemp fiber itself typically contains very low levels of THC, (the psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants) in fact, in most regions where hemp is legally cultivated for industrial purposes the THC content in hemp fiber is required to be extremely low, this minimal THC content ensures that hemp fiber does not possess psychoactive properties. However, the confusion between Hemp and marijuana led to social stigma surrounding Hemp.
Hemp vs Synthetic fibres
Competition from synthetic fibres also dealt a blow to the Hemp industry, synthetic fibres such as nylon and polyester are cheaper to produce and at a more consistent quality than natural fibres such as Hemp. Only recently have we begun to appreciate the long term hazardous effects that these synthetic fibres cause.
Infrastructure and Societal changes
These compounding effects saw the infrastructure supporting hemp production dwindle, which in turn made hemp production less economically viable. With this shift away from hemp, people became less aware of the benefits of hemp.
However, more recently, increased awareness of hemp's benefits and a greater inclination for natural fibres have led to a renewed interest in this versatile and sustainable fibre.
Why hemp excels as a fibre for clothing
Environmental sustainability
Hemp requires significantly fewer resources compared to other fibres. On a per acre basis, Hemp yields roughly 250% more fibre than cotton and 600% more fibre than flax, while also requiring about 50% less water than cotton, and 30% less than flax. Hemp is a hardy plant that is reknowned for its rapid growth, requires little to no pesticides and herbicides and also improves soil health rather than depleting it like most other crops.
Unique benefits of Hemp fabric
Unlike a lot of fast fashion garments, garments made from hemp fibres are actually healthy on your skin. Hemp has natural antibacterial properties, which helps to reduce odor and keeps the fabric fresher for longer. Hemp also has the added benefit of providing natural UV protection, having great thermal regulation, and having the ability to effectively absorb and release moisture, keeping you comfortable in both warm and cold conditions. Hemp fibers are biocompatible, meaning they are well-tolerated by the human body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
Hemp durability
Hemp has great durability, compared to fibres of similar diameter, it is approximately 3-5 times stronger than cotton, and 2-3 times stronger than linen. Along with its great abrasion resistance, garments made from Hemp are strong and long lasting. At the end of its lifecycle, hemp fiber is biodegradable, breaking down naturally without harming the environment. This reduces the environmental impact of hemp products and promotes a circular economy.
Embracing Hemp
Hemp fiber is emerging once again as a sustainable powerhouse for modern textiles, overcoming past hurdles of regulation and competition. Its unparalleled eco-friendliness, durability, and unique benefits like antibacterial properties and thermal regulation position it as a frontrunner in the quest for sustainable fashion. With its remarkable strength and biodegradability, hemp helps to pave the way for a circular economy and a greener planet.
Try it out for yourself
If you are interested in experiencing the benefits of Hemp fibre for yourself, see our current offering of Leisure Shirts below, made from 100% Certified Organic Hemp, with all other fibres and trims also being completely biodegradable.
