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Hemp, as one of the oldest agricultural products in human history, has a great heritage in both economic and cultural terms. However, the recent re-emergence of hemp coincides with a period in which biological sustainability and environmental problems are intensified. This study aims to investigate the scientific and economic foundations that transform this natural fiber into a sustainable development tool by examining the environmental, technological and social impacts of hemp fiber.
Hemp fiber has a structure with unique properties among natural fibers. The biochemical structure of the plant, combined with the cellulose richness of the fiber, mechanical durability and environmentally friendly production process, brings hemp to the forefront as an ecological solution. The positive effects of the hemp plant on the soil, its support for biodiversity and the fact that it does not require chemical fertilizers or pesticides show that it is an important model for sustainable agriculture.
The most important biological advantage of hemp over other plants is its rapid growth process and high fiber yield. Unlike many agricultural products, hemp can be harvested more than once a year, allowing for more efficient use of agricultural land. In addition, hemp protects the soil from erosion and contributes to the protection of underground water resources thanks to its deep root structure. These features show that hemp has the potential to revolutionize the global food and textile industry when evaluated in line with sustainable development goals.
Hemp fiber exhibits superior mechanical properties that can be used in the textile, construction and automotive industries with its high tensile strength and low density. The cellulose ratio of the fiber (70-75%) distinguishes hemp from traditional fibers, making it much more durable, long-lasting and resistant to environmental conditions. While the crystalline structure of the fiber increases mechanical strength, the environmental conditions and cultivation methods to which the plant is exposed play an important role in the formation of this crystalline structure. Therefore, climatic conditions and cultivation techniques during hemp production are among the factors that directly affect the quality of the fiber obtained.
Microscopic studies have shown that the longitudinally arranged microfibril structures of hemp fibers contribute to the high durability of the fiber. In addition, the fibers have natural hydrophobic and antibacterial properties, which make it possible to use this material in both biomedical and hygienic textile products. This alternative offered by biopolymer-based hemp fibers to traditional petrochemical-based plastics offers ecological solutions in both industrial applications and consumer products.
Hemp fiber attracts attention not only with its biological superiority but also with its economic potential. The versatile use of hemp covers a wide range from traditional textile products to paper production, from construction materials to bioplastics. In addition, the potential of hemp-based materials to reduce the carbon footprint is considered an important step in the transition to sustainability in industrial production.
Hemp-based construction materials, especially hemp-based concrete called “hempcrete”, have emerged as an innovation in the construction sector that minimizes environmental impacts with its high heat and sound insulation capacity. This biocomposite material increases the energy efficiency of buildings by increasing carbon absorption and ensures environmental sustainability. In addition, bioplastics produced from hemp have the potential to reduce global pollution caused by petrochemical plastics. Thanks to its high biodegradability, it dissolves quickly in nature and offers an alternative solution to the plastic waste problem.
From an economic perspective, hemp farming can make significant contributions to local and global economies. Hemp creates a wide economic impact from small farmers to large industrial producers with its low-cost production and versatile use in different sectors. In this context, it can be concluded that hemp should strengthen its place in the global trade network and be supported by agricultural and industrial policies.
The legal status and public perception of the cannabis plant has undergone several transformations throughout history. Traditionally an important agricultural product in many cultures, cannabis was banned in the mid-20th century, limiting its economic and social impact. However, in recent years, with the recognition of the environmental and economic potential of cannabis, legal regulations have begun to change in many countries.
This social and political transformation has paved the way for the industrial and commercial use of hemp again, while also changing the public's perception of hemp. Increasing environmental awareness and sustainability quests have accelerated the social acceptance of hemp and positioned it not only as an agricultural product but also as an ecological solution. In this context, analyzing the future social impacts of hemp is gaining importance within the framework of sustainable development and environmental justice concepts.
Hemp fiber is a versatile resource that serves sustainable development goals with its biological durability, ecological benefits and industrial usage areas. Developing scientific research and technological innovations further increase the agricultural, economic and environmental potential of hemp, making it a strategic material of the future. The findings of this study reveal that hemp fiber should be evaluated from a broad perspective, from its biological structure to its economic and social effects.
As a result, the future global impacts of hemp could be an important component of sustainable development strategies and policies.