In 2003, the United Stated Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) published rules outlawing any product containing any quantity of THC unless it was medicinal in nature, or not intended for consumption.

THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, puts the wacky in weed, so to speak, but most hemp doesn’t contain enough THC to have an effect. Unfortunately, the DEA bases its rules on the Controlled Substances Act, in which Congress used the wording “any quantity” of THC. In other words, if you have a problem with the limits of THC allowable in products, take it up with your state representatives. While the DEA determines how this law affects you and me (for instance, by denying permits to grow hemp, which was once a very successful US crop) the law gives them that opportunity.

Legal issues aside, is hemp a good alternative?

Personally, I would have to say no. We need to be looking toward transportation methods that create significantly less pollution, and uses fewer resources. Ethanol just isn’t it, regardless of what it’s made of. As far as the cost of corn and grain goes, if farmers make the switch to hemp, they’d affect the supply of other corns and grains and still drive up the cost of food. (This is not to say I’ve jumped on the ethanol = starvation bandwagon.) Why not focus on converting garbage? We have plenty of that we don’t know what to do with.

Sources: DEA, Farm and Ranch Guide

Image: Newscom

Post from: EveryJoe

Hemp for Ethanol?

#1: I’m a huuuuuuuuge Japanophile

#2: This year’s show will have more alternative energy options than ever before! It’s also the first all-encompassing Tokyo show since 1999.

I wonder if enough people petitioned b5media they’d feel it only right that I should go? For free. :p A girl can dream, can’t she? (But no, seriously, write and tell them for me! For now I’ll pack, and just assume I’m going.)

So, what exactly is there to see? Rumors abound over what’s being introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show. I’m almost hesitant to say anything because – well – unlike certain un-named car companies – I’d hate to get your hopes up. I will, however, say that over 300 automakers from all over the world plan to unveil their biggest, brightest new plans there. I can’t wait to take see pictures.

Post from: EveryJoe

40th Biennial TOKYO Motor Show!