A decision after 18 months of trial
Recently, the government of New Caledonia authorized the import, cultivation, processing and export of industrial hemp. The move follows an 18-month trial period, which marks an important step in the search for sustainable practices in the region.
New Caledonia Hemp Union: sustainable development objective
THE New Caledonia Hemp Union aims to explore the potential applications of hemp, particularly in terms of sustainable development. The experimental initiative focuses on the production of lightweight concrete, incorporating hemp with slag from the nickel industry. Frédéric Gérard, president of the New Caledonia Hemp Union, estimates that four hectares will be needed to support this initiative.
The potential benefits of industrial hemp
- Grows quickly: Hemp grows quickly, with a growing period of around 100 days.
- Energy efficiency: Hemp concrete is more energy efficient than traditional concrete because it has superior insulating properties.
- Economic : In many cases, hemp-based concrete is less expensive to produce than traditional concrete.
- Sustainable and ecological tool: Hemp has a low carbon footprint and requires very little water to grow. It constitutes an effective tool to combat global warming as well as a sustainable material in construction and decoration.
Possible uses of industrial hemp
Beyond lightweight concrete which is currently of interest to the government of New Caledonia, there are many other possible uses linked to industrial hemp:
- Textiles: clothing, shoes, bags, etc.
- Paper, cardboard and building materials
- Animal feed: seeds and cakes
- Nutraceuticals: hemp oil and flour
- Biofuel
Undeniable economic potential for the region
The authorization of the exploitation of industrial hemp in New Caledonia has significant economic potential for the region. International demand for hemp products is constantly increasing, which suggests increased business opportunities for local producers. Furthermore, as New Caledonia’s economy is mainly based on the export of metals such as nickel, the introduction of industrial hemp could diversify its income.
An example to follow for other regions and countries
If New Caledonia’s experience with industrial hemp proves successful, it could inspire other regions and countries around the world. Indeed, more and more governments are seeking to integrate sustainable solutions into their economic strategies. The exploitation of industrial hemp is an excellent way to combine economic development, ecology and sustainable development.
The decision of the New Caledonian government to authorize the exploitation of industrial hemp on an experimental basis brings hope for the region and for the entire hemp sector. The potential benefits of industrial hemp are numerous, both economically and environmentally. All that remains is to await the results of this bold initiative to measure the extent of its success and ultimately encourage more regions to follow suit.
