Implications, challenges, and prospects of industrial hemp as a sustainable natural fiber in Pakistan: An overview

Industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a sustainable source of fiber due to its fast growth rate and adaptability to diverse climates, and low demand for pesticides and water. Additionally, hemp fibers are versatile and used for a variety of products, including clothing, textiles, paper, and building materials. As a bast fibers with a high cellulose content, industrial hemp is both sustainable and resource-efficient sources. Considerations of environmental protection, as well as their intrinsic qualities like low density, high specific strength, and stiffness, increased researchers' interest in hemp fibers. This review examines the current status and significance of hemp fiber in the textile sector, comparing it with cotton and synthetic fibers while discussing its processing and use. Although, industrial hemp shows great promise, further research is needed to improve its quality and expand its applications. Hemp fiber processing is a significant issue in the textile sector, and thus this review provides comprehensive information on the complete value chain of hemp fiber, its challenges, and future implications.