Crops are hand-harvested, yielding the best fiber at the flowering stage. Fibers are separated from the stalks mechanically, although in some areas, retting, followed by hand stripping is still practiced. Leading producers are India, Thailand and China. The fibers are extracted similar to jute along with oil from the flower and used to make eco-friendly alternative to minerals and synthetic compounds in a range of products. The fibers act as a natural and biodegradable filler in masonry and insulation materials – which can be 80% kenaf.

Formed into cordage, canvas, sacking, an alternative to fiber glass, in composite panels with increasing consideration for other products like newsprint and carpet-backing yarn.

Formed to derive bio-based construction materials such as thermal insulating plaster, masonry blocks and walls.

Kenaf can be combined with thermoplastic polymers and used as the base of the resin to replace oil-based materials in the doors of some Ford Escape models.

Less demanding on the soil, easy to grow and uses less water than comparable plants, like jute.

Rotation crop.

Renewable - It reaches its mature height in less than 6 months, is easier to process and produces a high yield. Takes less energy and water to pulp Kenaf than to pulpwood.

Kenaf-based building materials provide up to 20% savings, reduce energy consumption and reduce overall carbon footprint compared to fiberglass, steel and Styrofoam products.

Can absorb large quantities of CO2, heavy metals and other pollutants as it grows. It has been use to clean up after oil spills thanks to its ability to draw tar from water.

Same strength to weight ratio as glass fibers. Lightweight with high thermal and sound insulating properties. It is related to cotton and okra and has leaves that are edible.