Introduction

The School of Agricultural and Forest Sciences have been developing links between the farming community and the new Welsh Bio-fibre industries.

Through participatory research and development this project was designed to assist farmers to supply quality hemp and flax fibre to a local processing plant.bee on blue flax flowers

After processing the fibre can then be used to make a variety of products in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Fibre from hemp and flax has been used traditionally in textiles for a range of applications, for example, sails, ropes, fishing nets, clothes and paper. The stems contain long fibres (bast fibre) which can be spun into yarn or pulped for paper production.

With modern technical developments the fibres can be used to substitute synthetic materials to produce products, such as loft insulation and reinforced plastic composites, in a more sustainable, environmentally friendly and cost effective way.

Developed and emerging markets are providing opportunities for Welsh farmers to diversify and supply the new industries in Wales.

This project evaluated crop production methods to improve the quantity and quality of fibre crops grown in Northwest Wales. On-farm trials and Experimental trials at Henfaes farm (the University Research facility) were conducted over a 3 year period. The project set out to promote innovation and market awareness and to encourage diversification within the local farming community.

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This project aims to assist farmers in supplying the emerging natural fibre industry with high yielding, quality fibre.