CHCX-3 Research Focus
Unlocking the Carbon Potential of Fibre Crops: Unyte Hemp Leads UK Research on Hemp and Flax
As the climate crisis continues to reshape priorities in agriculture and industry, fibre crops such as industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa, low-THC varieties) and flax (Linum usitatissimum) are emerging as promising solutions. These fast-growing annual crops can sequester carbon while providing sustainable raw materials for construction, textiles, automotive components and bioenergy.
At the forefront of this innovation is Unyte Hemp, one of the leading partners in the Centre for High Carbon Cropping (CHCx3) research initiative. Led by CEO Jamie Bartley, the company is working to generate the data needed to unlock the environmental and economic potential of hemp and flax within the UK’s agricultural framework.
Researching Carbon Capture and Soil Health
Together with partners Elsoms Seeds, NIAB, FC Palmer & Sons and the University of York, Unyte Hemp is conducting field trials across the UK to understand how fibre crops can contribute to climate-smart farming.
The research is focused on two key questions:
What are the optimum conditions for carbon capture in hemp and flax?
How do these crops improve soil health and contribute to long-term carbon sequestration?
Trial sites span a wide range of soil types, climatic zones and environmental conditions, including variations in moisture levels, shelter, and previous land use. This diversity enables the project team to analyse both above-ground carbon storage in plant biomass and below-ground retention in soils.
In addition to crop yields and carbon data, the trials are exploring new retting techniques and tillage practices that may enhance the carbon-storing capacity of these crops. Particular attention is being paid to how hemp and flax can improve marginal or degraded land by increasing soil organic matter.
Laying the Foundations for Carbon Farming
The findings from these trials will form the basis for a set of grower guides and best practice documents tailored to UK conditions. These will help farmers make informed decisions about integrating hemp and flax into their crop rotations, with clear data on yields, carbon metrics and economic viability.
Importantly, verified carbon capture data will support Unyte Hemp’s work in developing carbon credits, enabling farmers to benefit financially from sustainable land stewardship through participation in emerging carbon markets.
Building the Supply Chains of the Future
To ensure hemp and flax can meet market demand, Unyte Hemp is also working to strengthen supply chains and processing infrastructure. Partners such as UK Hempcrete and Natural Building Systems are collaborating to develop efficient, scalable processing models that can support the growth of these sectors.
One innovation under review is the use of mobile pre-processing units, which allow for decentralised fibre processing and help reduce logistical costs. These units can produce essential materials such as hemp shiv and fibre closer to the point of harvest, making it easier for farmers to participate in these growing markets.
A Climate-Smart Future for UK Farming
Through the CHCx3 initiative, Unyte Hemp is demonstrating that hemp and flax are not only viable crops but also powerful tools for carbon-smart farming. By providing evidence-based guidance and building resilient value chains, this work is paving the way for wider adoption of sustainable fibre crops across the UK.
“Our aim is to empower farmers, support green industries and build a low-carbon future,” says Jamie Bartley. “Hemp and flax have a key role to play in that future. This is about making sustainable agriculture both practical and profitable.”
As climate goals become more urgent, fibre crops may well become a cornerstone of regenerative farming in the UK, delivering both environmental and economic benefits for generations to come.
