Hurds refer to the tough, woody portion of the hemp or flax plant, remaining after the fiber has been removed. Some synonyms for hurds include shives, stalks, husks, and chaff. Shives and stalks typically refer to the wooden stem of the plant, while husks and chaff refer to the fibrous outer layer of the seed. Hurds are often used in industries such as papermaking, construction, and animal bedding. Despite being a byproduct of the fiber industry, hurds have become increasingly popular for their sustainable and eco-friendly properties. They are biodegradable, renewable, and can help reduce waste and carbon footprint.