Researchers have developed a way to turn hemp hurd, the woody core of the hemp plant, into microfibers for use in bioplastic films. This process improves the strength of packaging and mulch films while reducing reliance on petroleum based plastics. A life cycle assessment shows that anaerobic digestion is the most effective disposal method, significantly cutting CO2 emissions compared to landfilling or incineration. The study highlights how specific manufacturing choices, such as oven drying over spray drying, further lower the carbon footprint of these materials.
