Getting Greener: 4 Cannabis Sustainability Practices
As the cannabis industry continues to grow, so are ways cannabis producers are becoming more environmentally sustainable. In honour of Earth Month, let’s learn about four cannabis sustainability practices in the industry, including sustainable cannabis packaging, harnessing natural sunlight, rainwater utilization, and nurturing living soil. Explore how industry leaders, such as and Simply Bare Organic and Wyld, are paving the way towards a greener future.
1. Sustainable cannabis packaging
One impactful way in which licensed producers are making a difference is through switching to sustainable cannabis packaging. Opting for biodegradable or compostable packaging materials will help significantly reduce the amount of single-use plastic waste ending up in our landfills. Always be sure to check the packaging to know where it goes.
“We also understand that, as a cannabis company, we are part of the problem. Which is why we are redesigning our current plastic dram and bottles with more environmentally friendly, compostable materials, as well as launching our fully compostable pouches in Canada and emerging markets.” - Wyld
Brands that are doing this:
2. Harnessing natural sunlight
Outdoor cultivation is known to be the most environmentally sustainable growing method, as it requires little energy consumption from lighting, heating, cooling, etc. However, in Canada, where the climate can be quite unpredictable for fully outdoor cultivation, a hybrid approach is increasingly becoming popular as a cannabis sustainability practice. Innovative hybrid greenhouses harness the benefits of natural sunlight and subsidize with energy-efficient LED lighting when necessary. This approach not only reduces energy consumption but also minimizes the carbon footprint associated with indoor cultivation.
“Full-spectrum, natural sunlight not only allows plants to express their full aroma but it's also a more sustainable approach to cultivating. When the BC weather does not cooperate, we use a supplemental high-efficiency LED system to give the plants the light they need.” – Simply Bare
Brands that are doing this:
3. Utilizing rainwater
Water conservation is a significant cannabis sustainability practice. With cannabis cultivation requiring plenty of water, producers can significantly reduce or eliminate their reliance on traditional water sources, such as municipal supplies or groundwater, by capturing rainwater. In BC, where winters bring ample rainfall, capturing rainwater is an impactful approach to help curb water usage and preserve precious resources. This becomes particularly vital as summer brings dryer conditions, highlighting the importance of adopting such sustainable practices.
“Water conservation is one of the largest environmental issues we face globally. Here at our farm, we make sure every drop counts. To reduce our water use, we collect rainwater throughout the year, filter it, and use it wherever possible, mainly for watering our plants. From September to June, we are able to depend solely on rainwater for the majority of our greenhouse operations.” – Pure Sunfarms
Brands that are doing this:
4. Nurturing living soil
Finally, but certainly not least, is the cannabis sustainability practice which begins from the ground up. The method of "living soil" represents a holistic approach to cultivation, prioritizing soil health and biodiversity. By nurturing a rich ecosystem within the soil, teeming with diverse microorganisms and beneficial bacteria, cannabis producers can enhance plant vitality while diminishing the need for harmful synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, at the end of each harvest, the soil isn't discarded but rather rejuvenated and recycled for the next crop, perpetuating a sustainable cycle of growth.
“We focus on nurturing the symbiotic relationship between microorganisms and the cannabis plant’s root system. As a result, our plants are healthier and are better able to fight off pests and disease naturally without the use of pesticides.” – Good Buds
Brands that are doing this:
As consumers and licensed producers become more eco-conscious, the trajectory towards cannabis sustainability is on the rise. Through pioneering practices, like sustainable cannabis packaging, the industry charts a greener, more environmentally friendly path forward.
Interested in learning how BC Cannabis Stores and the LDB prioritize the environment? Check out our blog here.
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