Boost for hemp bill as first hemp insulation installed

Green MP Nandor Tanczos' bill seeking to allow farmers to grow industrial hemp received a boost today as the first insulation fibre made from New Zealand-grown hemp was installed in two Wellington houses.

The 40 per cent hemp, 60 per cent wool insulation slabs have now been installed in two Wellington houses owned by the Green Party.

Nandor's bill seeks to take cannabis out of the Misuse of Drugs Act and sets a limit of 0.3 per cent THC - the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis - for industrial hemp. Recreational cannabis contains 10 - 15 per cent THC.

"With my bill coming up in select committee this week the creation and installation of this insulation shows what can be achieved. Lets get Government out of the way and allow our farmers to catch up with the rest of the world and grow this incredibly versatile crop," said Nandor.

"Hemp has heaps of potential for our farmers and our rural communities. It is good for the soil and can be used to make a wide range of top-end products including edible oil, fibre board, paper, insulation, cosmetics and food products.

"People around the world want to buy hemp products and farmers around the world are growing it. Hemp grows well in New Zealand and we should get Government out of the way and let our farmers compete on the international market and make the most of this exciting crop."

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