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Cannabis is often seen as the next frontier of green agriculture. In reality, much of the industry’s current direction is neither sustainable nor forward-thinking for the environment. The majority of cannabis’ exorbitant energy use stems from inefficient cultivation practices. Even a decade back, cannabis production produced carbon emissions equal to having Three million carsThese figures are likely to have risen as more states legalize marijuana.
It’s important to remember that cultivators did not start growing inside because sunlight ruins the plant. In reality, they were growing inside to hide from drug wars. Eventually, these cultivators realized they could “play God” when it came to the climate in the grow rooms but at an immense environmental cost.
For years, indoor-grown flower was considered higher quality due to a facility’s consistent climate, but correlation does not imply causation. Many indoor growers just replicate the ideal climates that exist in certain areas, such as California.
It is estimated that U.S. cannabis sales will reach $1 billion $43 Billion by 2025Cultivators must adopt sustainable best practices to meet growing consumer demand and not further worsen the climate crisis. To make a positive global impact, regulated companies must continue to bring cannabis out from the shadows and use more efficient cultivation methods.
The Hidden Costs of Growing without Mother Nature
While the Environmental benefitsWhile the advantages of indoor farming over greenhouses are well-documented in mainstream agriculture, there are not enough studies to prove this.
Indoor cannabis cultivation is High energy consumption is a sign of high energy pricesLighting, HVAC and dehumidification. Due to the country’s piecemeal approach to legalization, markets with extreme climates or fewer renewable energy sources are usually left to cultivate within their state — resulting in immense environmental consequences. A 2021 studyColorado State University conducted an analysis of carbon emissions in more than 1,000 indoor cultivation sites. It found that the Midwestern states, Alaska, and Hawaii had the highest levels, while Florida needed the most resources to support heating and dehumidification processes, respectively.
Glass House Brands, my company, was given the task of acquiring a StudySeinergy, an energy consultancy, led the investigation into the environmental impact of our cultivation methods. Indoor facilities produced more carbon emissions and consumed more electricity than cannabis grown in Dutch-style greenhouses. However, indoor facilities released less carbon and used less electricity per unit of cannabis.
To achieve consistent results indoor facilities need a lot of non-renewable resources to power artificial lighting and air conditioning. These resources are sustainable in ideal climates where there are the right facilities.
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Some local regulations seem to be disincentivizing or outright prohibiting outdoor and greenhouse cultivation, further compounding the unforeseeable environmental consequences. Sacramento is one example. outdoor cultivation bannedOnly special permission is granted for greenhouses. I believe that cannabis should be grown only in those areas that are natural and conducive to it.
The Benefits of Sunshine-Grown Flowers
Simply replacing the sun with artificial lighting powered by non-renewable resources isn’t economically or environmentally sustainable. Consider that the industry spends over $800 million annually. $6 billionElectricity, that energy and water account About half of total operating costs are coveredThis approach is hindering sector growth potential. The consumer ultimately shoulders these costs, but it’s evident that industry stakeholders and the environment are also paying a premium.
I believe that cultivators should make use of sun-grown methods as much as possible. Sun-grown techniques are more efficient and provide the light spectrum the plants evolved under to support their health and quality. A 2021 studyThe UV radiation in sunlight has been identified as a key factor in stimulating cannabinoid-biosynthesis. earlier studyIt was shown that indoor lighting systems can produce inconsistent levels of photons when compared to sunlight, as evidenced by the 2019 study.
As cannabis legalization continues, cultivators will be able to use technological innovations for greenhouse growing at scale. I expect to see more investments in sungrown technologies and synergies with traditional agriculture in the future. This will allow us to create high-quality products with minimal environmental impact.
Call to Action for Consumers and the Industry
Companies should strive to prioritize sustainability initiatives in an sector that heavily depends on renewable and other nonrenewable resources. Industry leaders should be held accountable by reporting energy consumption, commissioning additional environmental research, labeling sun-grown goods, and investing in education. By providing comprehensive sustainability reports each year, cannabis companies can follow the example of the airline and automotive industries.
Cultivators should not wait for regulators to mandate change — we share a collective responsibility to advocate for and implement more sustainable practices. This is an opportunity for leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates in cannabis to show the way as a new industry that is building its reputation within global business. We can show modern businesses how to be good environmental stewards, while still creating outstanding products and growing without compromising on growth.
Pollution isn’t free, and these environmental externalities should factor into consumer choices. Cannabis consumers have the power to vote with their wallets, and push for sun-grown products to be stockpiled by retailers and brands. In mainstream sectors, the ongoing sustainability push is driven by environmentally-conscious customers, and it’s time for cannabis consumers to assert their power as well.
These measures are the basis for a domestic legal market that encourages cannabis production in states that are naturally equipped to do so. Commodities and goods can only be produced in areas that have a competitive advantage over the rest of the country’s economy. Just as we buy oranges from Florida and corn from the Midwest, I believe it makes environmental and economic sense to grow cannabis in regions where it thrives naturally — not in conflict with Mother Nature, but in partnership with her.
