Cannabis sativa (hemp) – an eco-friendly material for heritage conservation and sustainable environment
Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development
ISSN: 2044-1266
Article publication date: 15 February 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The present work highlights the outstanding properties of Cannabis sativa that can be harnessed for various utilitarian functions and its climate friendly properties.
Design/methodology/approach
In this paper, the authors reviewed current research on all possible utilities from household work to manufacturing of various products that are environmentally sustainable. The authors have presented some of their research on this materials and also exploration of hemp as an archaeological material based on the findings from wall paintings of Ellora caves.
Findings
There are references of hemp use in mixing with earthen/lime plaster of western Indian monuments. Around 1,500 years of Ellora’s earthen plaster, despite harsh climatic conditions, survived due to the presence of hemp in the plaster that adds durability, fibrosity and its capacity to ward off insects and control humidity. Furthermore, the outstanding quality of Cannabis as carbon sequestrant was harnessed by Indians of ancient times in Ellora mural paintings.
Research limitations/implications
This work discusses some relevant literature on the potential use of hempcrete aligned with Agenda 2030 of sustainable development goals.
Practical implications
There are several research going on in producing sustainable materials using hemp that have the least environmental impact and can provide eco-friendly solutions.
Social implications
The authors impress upon the readers about multifarious utility of the hemp and advices for exploration of this material to address many environmental issues.
Originality/value
This paper presents both review of the existing papers and some components coming directly from their laboratory investigations.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was carried out under the DST-SHRI Research Project sanctioned to Dr Madhuri Sawant.
Funding: This research was conducted under the DST-SHRI research project DST/DTD/SHRI/41/2018 sanctioned to Dr. Madhuri Sawant.
Citation
Singh, M.R., Kanth, A.P., Sawant, M. and Ragde, R. (2024), "Cannabis sativa (hemp) – an eco-friendly material for heritage conservation and sustainable environment", Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCHMSD-12-2022-0206
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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