The Environmental Impact Of Cannabis: Sustainable Growth Or Eco-Disaster?

Indoor cannabis cultivation has a large carbon footprint due to its use of plastic, water, and energy, making it unsustainable. However, through the use of advanced technology and production practices, it is possible to grow high-quality cannabis sustainably, benefiting both the industry and the environment.

If you are concerned about the environmental challenges the cannabis industry poses, join us at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference on April 12-12 in Miami where experts will discuss if consumers are or should be conscious of sustainability and adopting environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles.

The Challenge Of Sustainable Growth In The Cannabis Industry

Increasing global interest in cannabis cultivation for medical and recreational purposes comes with concerning environmental impacts.

Cannabis cultivation is water-intensive, leading to pollution and diversion that negatively affects the ecosystem. Indoor cultivation consumes high energy, emitting greenhouse gases and causing potential soil erosion.

A report by New Frontier Data predicts that water usage by the cannabis industry will increase by 86% by 2025.

However, precision irrigation technology and life cycle analysis tools are potential solutions to mitigate environmental concerns.

Measures Taken In The USA

In California, the Department of Fish and Wildlife is providing over $20 million in funding to support cannabis farmers in restoring and conserving their properties and becoming fully licensed under the Cannabis Restoration Grant Program.

The program includes various projects such as road upgrades, clean-up of illegal grow sites and conservation of water resources, with the goal of addressing issues linked to unlicensed cannabis cultivation like water diversion, pesticide use, wildlife poaching and littering near waterways.

To ensure compliance with environmental regulations, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) has developed guidance documents to assist with understanding and seeking help in this area.

Cannabis Policies And Sustainable Development Goals

While the trend towards reforming cannabis policies is ongoing, a lack of democratic monitoring could pose risks to public health and affected populations.

"Recommendations for the implementation of Cannabis policies aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development", is a report that discusses the potential impacts of reforming hemp and cannabis policies on the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Instead of attempting to create a universal policy, the report suggests addressing individual policies that affect or involve cannabis. It also emphasizes the need for ethical practices and sustainable approaches to maximize the potential benefits of cannabis in appropriately regulated settings.

Value In Sustainability

According to a national survey by Canivate Growing Systems, 64% of respondents are ready to pay a premium price for organically grown cannabis with environmentally friendly cultivation practices.

More information about cannabis and sustainability can be found in a report released by Regennabis, an ESG advisory for the global cannabis and hemp market. The report outlines the challenges faced by indoor growers and offers potential solutions for efficient resource use.

Meet Geoff Trotter, Regennabis co-founder and CEO, in person at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference on April 11-12. Find cross-sector collaborations in the industry through sustainability and innovation. Meet other cannabis advocates, entrepreneurs and environmentally friendly operators.

Photo: Courtesy Of elizabeth lies On Unsplash