Marijuana and Hemp are two varieties of the same species – Cannabis Sativa L. These two varieties are differentiated by regulatory cannabinoid limits relating to the amount of psychoactive cannabinoid Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) present in the plant. Marijuana constitutes a higher THC composition whilst Hemp is only permitted by governing bodies to have less than 1%, 0.3% or 0.2% THC depending on the region. Furthermore, the attributes of Hemp have been domesticated to produce ideal qualitative characteristics such as long or dense stalk size and larger seeds for alternative industrial applications. Most Marijuana strains have been hybridized to produce ideal endocannabinoid profiles via the flower and resin as opposed to an ideal morphological structure for industrial applications as seen with Hemp.

Industrial Hemp is a domesticated variety of Cannabis Sativa L. which is used because of its ideal morphological characteristics. These characteristics enable a multitude of uses including:

• High fibre quantities and quality;
• Nutritious seeds;
• Consumable Oils;
• Healthcare;
• Cosmetic Products;
• Biofuel;
• Textiles; and
• Industrial applications including construction, biocomposite plastic manufacture, and biodegradable paper alternatives.

Industrial Hemp is a non-resource intensive plant grown as an input material for various high-technical and low-technical applications. The diversity of applications and resilience in the agri-ecosystem indicates the potential for Hemp to contribute towards conscious and sustainable agro-industrialization. Furthermore, it is considered a climate combating raw material due to its:

• Carbon sequestration properties;
• Bioremediation properties;
• Erosive soil mitigation properties; and
• Its ability to be used for various industrial applications.

The eco-fortitude of Hemp is further reinforced by the lower embodied energy of the final products produced.

HempoSapiens conducts an initial Hemp Viability Assessment which we use to determine the pre-feasibility of your Hemp opportunity. When then perform a data-rich scoping analysis which explores:

• Detailed site assessments
• Climatic considerations
• Agronomic practices which should align with specific targeted plant attributes and intended applications
• The type of crop genetic which can be used to ensure stability of the crop and applicability of the output.
• Financial feasibility including financial forecasts and project costings
• Local / regional off-take opportunities
• Permit requirements for specific Hemp project needs

Microclimatic conditions which prevail on your piece of land must be carefully analysed and understood. HempoSapiens assesses climatic conditions as part of our in-depth scoping analysis. This assessment includes:

• The annual mean temperature of the region
• Humidity of the region
• Annual mean rainfall
• Threat of weather events including hail and wind

In addition, careful consideration is paid to:

• Location
• Soil quality
• The size of the available arable land
• The level of preparedness of the land for farming Hemp
• The availability of suitable and sufficient water to cater to the ongoing needs of the farm
• Security on the farm and the surrounding area