## Ohio Hemp Company Partners with Heartland Industries for Sustainable Bioplastics
The Ohio Hemp Company has joined forces with Michigan-based Heartland Industries to cultivate hemp fiber for the burgeoning bioplastics market. This collaboration marks a significant step towards sustainable manufacturing, with the hemp fiber destined for automotive parts production by a Belgian company.
This venture is fueled by Ohio's legal landscape, where Governor Mike DeWine legalized hemp cultivation in 2019. The Ohio Hemp Company, owned by TJ Richardson and Justin Helt, initially focused on the CBD market before recognizing the potential of hemp for grain and fiber.
## Innovation and Sustainability Drive the Partnership
The collaboration with Heartland Industries showcases the Ohio Hemp Company's adaptability and vision. Heartland, having overcome challenges in reviving hemp cultivation, now partners with Midwest farmers to produce nurdles, a key component in bioplastics manufacturing.
This innovative material integrates hemp fiber into traditional plastic, reducing environmental impact without compromising quality or performance. The agreement with Heartland Industries allows the Ohio Hemp Company to expand its hemp cultivation to 200 acres of dual-purpose hemp.
## A Broader Movement Towards Sustainability
This growth reflects a broader trend within the ancillary cannabis business space, where established players from various sectors are seizing opportunities to solidify their presence. Notably, the entry of major packaging companies into the cannabis space signals a transformative phase for the industry, where sustainability and innovation become paramount.
Casa Verde Capital, led by Snoop Dogg, exemplifies the strategic investment in ancillary cannabis businesses, highlighting the sector's potential. With the global cannabis packaging market projected to reach $20 billion by 2025, the synergy between hemp bioplastics and traditional packaging solutions opens up unprecedented opportunities for sustainable practices.