Unlocking the Potential of Hemp: A Low-Carbon Crop with High Impact
Industrial hemp is fast gaining recognition as a climate-friendly crop with huge potential to support the UK's transition to a low-carbon economy. Not only is it capable of absorbing carbon at around twice the rate of trees, but the resulting biomass can be transformed into a wide range of sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel-based products.
Hemp also brings major benefits to the land it grows in. With low input requirements and a natural ability to improve soil health, it is a valuable addition to crop rotation systems. At the Centre for High Carbon Cropping (CHCx3), research is underway to better understand the environmental and economic value of hemp, and to support farmers and innovators in making the most of this underused crop.
Two Types, Many Benefits
In the UK, two main types of hemp are grown. Fibre hemp is sown in April or May, harvested in August, and then left to “ret” in the field for several weeks before processing. This variety is primarily used for industrial applications such as insulation, textiles, and biocomposites.
Multipurpose hemp, on the other hand, is cultivated for both seed and fibre. It flowers early and is left to grow for longer to allow the seeds to mature, usually harvested in September or October. This variety holds particular promise for the food and nutrition sector, thanks to its nutrient-rich seeds and oil.
Despite these benefits, hemp cultivation in the UK remains limited. Currently, only around 800 hectares are planted each year. By comparison, Canada grew over 31,000 hectares in 2022, mostly multipurpose hemp, to meet strong demand from food and wellness industries.
Pioneering Hemp Breeding for the Future
At the Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (CNAP) at the University of York, researchers are leading the way in developing new hemp varieties with enhanced qualities. Using fast-track molecular breeding, the team has already created a new line called CNAP1HOH, which produces oil with nearly 80% oleic acid—a major leap from the typical 10% found in standard varieties.
This higher level of mono-unsaturated fats makes the oil significantly more thermally stable, with tests showing it performs five times better than standard hemp oil. Not only is this ideal for cooking, but it also opens up new uses in high-temperature industrial processes, making it an exciting prospect for manufacturers.
Looking Ahead
CHCx3 is continuing to build on this success by exploring traits like reduced cannabinoid content and improved seed size and yield. These developments aim to make hemp a more appealing and profitable crop for UK farmers, offering a reliable break crop that supports soil health, biodiversity, and climate goals.
Expanding the market for hemp seed and oil is also seen as a stepping stone to strengthening the supply chain for hemp fibre-based products, helping to unlock the full potential of this incredibly versatile plant.
With the right support, innovation, and policy backing, industrial hemp could play a central role in shaping a greener, healthier, and more resilient agricultural future for the UK.
Professor Ian A. Graham, Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, University of York
