Abstract for: A Qualitative Causal Loop Diagram Representing the Drivers and Barriers of the Industrial Hemp Market in Ireland

The cultivation of industrial hemp may aid Ireland in achieving its goal of zero carbon emissions from agriculture by 2050. However, there is a lack of research on industrial hemp in Ireland. This study aims to identify the drivers and barriers affecting the industrial hemp market in Ireland and how applying a Causal Loop Diagram (CLD) can advance our understanding of it. The study used purposive text data from a publicly available transcript of the Hemp Federation Ireland inaugural conference to develop a CLD in Vensim. The study found that subsidies and sustainability are the key drivers of the industrial hemp market in Ireland, while negative perceptions of hemp and unsubstantiated claims about its effects are significant barriers. The study demonstrates that it is possible to gain insight into the complexity of Ireland's industrial hemp market by using retrospective analysis of purposive data. The study's framework for developing a CLD can guide future studies in this area. This conceptual model is not meant to be considered complete or accurate, but it serves as a helpful starting point for further research.