Cannabis hemp! Its flower produces a resin with profoundly effective bioactive molecules, the study of which has yielded a new scientific understanding of our own human biology. Its vascular system forms bast fibers that are among the strongest known, supported by a rigid core of highly useful natural material (how useful, really?). Its grain is remarkably nutritious (but is it safe?). Its extensive root system aerates the soil and may replenish it with carbon better than other crops (but does it?)

Given this extraordinary biology and phenotypic diversity of the Cannabis genus, it is no wonder that hemp has been so historically important to human societies. Hemp is one of the most useful of crops but also most misunderstood. The mystique of cannabis and its psychoactive properties contribute to fear and mistrust by some, and hyperbolic proselytizing by others, both of which lead to myopic thinking that can impede rational progress.

In this talk, Dr Gerdeman will impart inspiring thoughts as to how modern science has helped us rethink cannabis in recent decades, but will also challenge us to rethink some beliefs that are emerging as new potential traps. Hemp is poised to have revolutionary value in contemporary industrial value chains, but it is not inevitable. It is vital that stakeholders have the knowledge base and flexibility to rethink our own assumptions about hemp, such as the idea that there is a singular hemp industry with common goals, or that hemp is not cannabis, or that any drug molecules synthesized from hemp ingredients are inherently natural or safe.