Pubdate: Mon, 21 May 2001 Source: Ogdensburg Journal/Advance News (NY) Copyright: 2001 St. Lawrence County Newspapers Corp Contact: Accepts LTEs by mail only! Address: P.O. Box 409, Ogdensburg, New York 13669 Website: http://www.ogd.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/689 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/hemp.htm (Hemp) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?330 (Hemp - Outside US) NOTE: Accepts LTEs by mail only! Must be signed w/phone# HEMP USES Researchers working to create biodegradable car body parts are looking to the cannabis plant as a possible source of row materials. A team at the University of New South Wales is trying to develop car parts that would deteriorate after a car is scrapped, reducing waste. The team says hemp, made from the cannabis plant, might be the way to go. "Disposal of old cars is a growing problem, especially in Europe," said associate professor Alan Crosky. Crosky said a plant fiber-based material would be renewable and biodegradable. "It would also be light, which would be a huge advantage in environmentally friendly battery-powered cars," he said. Researchers are looking into whether hemp has the strength and durability needed for the job. - --- MAP posted-by: Josh Sutcliffe