Hemp fibre has been a major crop for long periods of history. In 16th century England, for instance, it was compulsory for farmers to grow hemp, to provide rope and sails for the navy.

   Today hemp fibre is enjoying a revival as an eco-friendly alternative to cotton for clothing, because it is fast-growing in almost any climate with little or no chemicals. Hemp fibre is hard-wearing and although initially a bit stiffer than cotton it softens comfortably with use and washing.

   Hemp seed oil is used in health supplements and bodycare products, while hemp can be made into paper and a plant-based form of plastic.

   (Hemp is another term for cannabis, but hemp is used to mean non-psychoactive strains of the plant.)

• Hemp products