Hemp, Carbon Credits, and the Race to Decarbonise Aviation

Well, it’s only January, and I’ve already been in and out of Westminster several times this year, banging the drum on industrial hemp and what needs to happen for the UK to fully realise its potential (ooh, look at him, you might comment). But what’s becoming clear, is of all the industries hemp can transform, aviation biofuel is a standout — and it’s firmly on Westminster’s radar.

As someone who spends more time on aeroplanes than I should (a drug I’m trying to cut back on in 2025), I can’t ignore the reality that flying is essential for businesses like ours, which span the globe. Making it more sustainable isn’t just an industry goal — it’s a personal priority.

We know aviation must decarbonise, and the global sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market is projected to hit over £200 billion by 2030. In the UK, new SAF mandates kick in this year, requiring 2% of jet fuel to come from sustainable sources, increasing to 10% by 2030. This shift could create 10,000 jobs and contribute £1.8 billion to the UK economy.

But of course, scaling SAF production isn’t easy. Feedstock costs, availability, and infrastructure challenges are significant barriers. And this is where hemp can shine.

Why hemp?
Hemp is a high-yield, low-input crop that can produce up to 15 tonnes of biomass per hectare. It absorbs more CO2 per hectare than forests, making it a carbon-negative powerhouse. Its oil can be converted into biofuel, while the leftover biomass can go into bioplastics, construction materials, and more.

Real progress, real companies
We’re seeing global innovators pushing forward:
- Cultiv8 Hemp Solutions aims to deliver hemp-based SAF by 2027.
- Atlantic Biomass and Bionoid are advancing hemp biofuel production.
- iogen, with decades of biofuel expertise, could be pivotal in scaling hemp-based SAF.

There are others of course. So the technology exists. And the interest is there. But for hemp to compete as a viable SAF feedstock, we need action.

Why carbon credits matter
A government-backed hemp carbon capture trading platform could be a game-changer. Hemp sequesters carbon at a scale that could drive significant revenues through carbon credits, offsetting production costs for farmers and businesses. This isn’t just about climate action; it’s about making hemp a commercially viable solution for the aviation industry.

Can the UK lead?
The UK has the resources, expertise, and ambitions to lead on SAF innovation. But outdated policies like the Proceeds of Crime Act are still blocking investment into industrial hemp. If we don’t move quickly, other countries will dominate the market, leaving the UK on the sidelines.

This isn’t just about flying greener. It’s about jobs, rural regeneration, and securing a leading position in a multi-billion-pound global market.

The skies are calling. Let’s make sure the UK answers.
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