THE MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS OF INDUSTRIAL HEMP (CANNABIS SATIVA L.) IN THE CONTEXT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

This review explores the multiple directions of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) utilization at a global level, highlighting the importance of this crop as a renewable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly resource. While hemp has traditionally been employed for the production of fibers, seeds, and medicinal products, recent studies have expanded its applications into innovative fields such as eco-friendly construction materials (e.g., hempcrete and composite materials), automotive and aerospace industries, cosmetics, biofuels, and others. The remarkable properties of hemp, including low density, superior mechanical strength, carbon sequestration capability, and moisture regulation, help reduce energy consumption and enhance the performance of construction materials, thereby providing competitive advantages in sustainability-oriented sectors. Moreover, hemp extracts and oils, rich in bioactive compounds (essential fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants, and cannabinoids), have demonstrated therapeutic potential, reinforcing the role of hemp in the development of food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical products. Additionally, hemp significantly contributes to phytoremediation by absorbing heavy metals and contaminants from the soil, and hemp fibers stand out for their durability and resistance, being valued in the textile industry for their ecological characteristics and superior performance. Industrial hemp stands out for its high versatility, and its valuable properties along with its favorable environmental impact, support its integration into a wide range of sectors, opening promising perspectives for a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.