The Green Lantern
Though hemp can be used to make many different products, there is a large controversy over the use of the plant. Legally, hemp is practically identical to marijuana. Many hemp advocates argue that the two have a visible difference, but the common person probably won't be able to tell the difference between the two plants. Though hemp can be used in such a versatile way, the Stockholm Environment Institute conducted a test in 2005 to see if hemp was more eco-friendly than cotton and polyester. Interestingly enough, hemp did not come out on top as most presumed. Hemp was a little easier on the environment than cotton and polyester, but not enough to truly make a case out of it. It makes you wonder whether people are arguing for it in order to keep our environment in tact or just so they can get away with growing marijuana. I guess you can argue that hemp is extra important for vegans who can't really get omega-3's in their diet, but they have many products out there created just for them with hemp. If the government is to allow individuals to grow hemp, then they are opening the door for people to grow marijuana. Many use the drug anyway although it is illegal, and if they allow common individuals the right to grow hemp, they might as well legalize marijuana as well. It would be a lot easier to get away with. I'm pretty "green" when it comes to the way I live, but if the use of hemp isn't going to significantly aid our environment, then there is no need to use that over cotton and polyester.
