Founded to address critical challenges in manufacturing sustainability and agricultural job creation, the company’s innovative approach centres around industrial hemp – a versatile, eco-friendly resource with vast potential to transform South Africa’s economy and environment.
Hemp Solutions is tackling two pressing issues: the need for sustainable manufacturing and the socio-economic void left by unemployment in agricultural sectors. “Our vision is to cultivate not just hemp, but a new future for South African agriculture,” says Johan Jacobs, Founder of Hemp Solutions. “By harnessing the full potential of the hemp plant, we are working towards a zero-waste manufacturing model that also empowers local communities.”
Industrial hemp, known for its versatility and low environmental impact, grows in only 120 days, sequestering more carbon dioxide than trees during this period. Unlike resource-intensive crops like cotton, which require significant water and pesticides, hemp thrives with minimal resources. Moreover, every part of the hemp plant can be utilised, supporting a zero-waste model by providing materials for products from textiles to biodegradable plastics.
Beyond carbon sequestration, the economic impact of Hemp Solutions is substantial. Each hectare of hemp cultivated sequesters approximately 22 tons of CO₂ annually, contributing to global climate mitigation efforts. The company’s sustainable manufacturing model addresses the demand for eco-friendly products while enhancing local livelihoods.
Hemp Solutions has secured Letters of Intent amounting to R350 million from major South African companies for hemp-based products, with additional inquiries valued at R150 million in the sales pipeline. One innovative product, Dahlia – a hemp-based, plastic-free female hygiene product – has the potential to generate R210 million in sales with just a 1% market penetration among South Africa’s 20 million female consumers.
The regulatory environment is supportive, with over 1,100 licences issued by the South African government for industrial hemp cultivation. “As the government recognises the dual benefits of industrial hemp for economic growth and environmental sustainability, we anticipate an increasingly supportive framework for our industry,” notes Jacobs.
Strategic partnerships are crucial to Hemp Solutions’ mission. The company is actively pursuing collaborations with key players in consumer goods, fashion, and retail, all eager to adopt sustainable hemp-based alternatives to traditional plastics.
Looking beyond South Africa, Hemp Solutions has plans to expand globally. “Once we establish a strong base in South Africa, our sights will be set on international buyers,” Jacobs says. Participation in initiatives like Africa’s Green Economy Summit offers visibility to international investors and networking opportunities to align with broader green economy goals.
Hemp Solutions will be among the projects pitching at Africa’s Green Economy Summit, held on 19–20 February 2025 at the Century City Convention Centre in Cape Town. Register now to meet the Hemp Solutions team and explore 40 other transformative projects!
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