BIOMANUFACTURING
Biomanufacturing harnesses biological systems, to produce materials, chemicals, and fuels sustainably. In the context of industrial hemp, biomanufacturing leverages the plant’s fast growth, low environmental impact, and versatility. Hemp can be transformed into biodegradable plastics, textiles, biofuels, and construction materials. Using biotechnological processes, its components—like cellulose and lignin—are refined and repurposed, offering eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-based products. This makes hemp a promising resource in the transition to a circular, bio-based economy.
Hemp & Biomanufacturing
Industrial hemp is a valuable addition to the growing ecosystem of plant-based manufacturing inputs, which already includes corn, soy, algae, and bamboo. Like these crops, hemp offers renewable, biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based products—but with unique advantages. Its strong fibers support sustainable textile, paper, and bioplastic production, while its woody core enhances green construction with materials like hempcrete. Hemp thrives with minimal water and pesticides, enriches soil, and absorbs high levels of CO₂, making it an ideal complement to existing bio-based supply chains.
Why Biomanufacturing Matters
Biomanufacturing plays a crucial role in the global shift toward renewable resources by replacing hydrocarbon-based production with sustainable, biologically derived alternatives. As climate change accelerates and fossil fuels deplete, the need for cleaner, circular systems becomes urgent. Biomanufacturing uses plant material to produce everything from car parts to fuels, drastically reducing carbon emissions, pollution, and waste. By tapping into renewable biomass, we support regenerative industries that align with ecological limits—working towards a healthier planet and a more resilient, post-carbon economy.
USDA BioPreferred Program
The USDA BioPreferred® Program promotes the use of biobased products derived from renewable agricultural, marine, and forestry materials. Established by the 2002 Farm Bill and expanded in 2018, it aims to reduce reliance on petroleum, stimulate rural economies, and support environmental sustainability. The program features two key initiatives: mandatory federal purchasing requirements and a voluntary labeling system. The USDA Certified Biobased Product label helps consumers identify products with verified renewable content, fostering a more sustainable, biobased economy.
Case Study: IND Hemp
NHA member IND HEMP is a US leader in hemp biomanufacturing, operating a dual-purpose processing campus in Montana with facilities for both fiber and oilseed production. Partnering with farmers across the American West, they support regenerative agriculture and rural economies. As a Certified B Corporation, IND HEMP drives innovation in sustainable materials and carbon removal, including participation in the XPRIZE Carbon Removal Challenge. Their vertically integrated model makes them a pioneer in building a renewable, hemp-based supply chain for a cleaner, circular economy.
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