There’s no doubt that the boom of capitalism has undowndubly given some major blows to our Earth, and cannabis is no exception.  Now, we can’t go back in time and undo some of the decisions that were made, but we can learn from those mistakes and change the way we do business now. Sure, it’s easy to doom-scroll our way into an environmental depression, or  with our combined efforts, we can turn our hope for a healthier Earth into a reality. This St. Patrick’s Day, instead of wearing green, we’re asking you to shop green by rethinking our consumer habits, over a blunt, of course. 

We’ve previously made a public statement about our commitment to a better, more equitable and sustainable cannabis industry in this open letter. By the end of 2021, we’re looking to transition 75% of our packaging to compostable, biodegradable, and/or recyclable materials. We’ve already launched part one of this movement, by introducing our subscription based orders that come in 100% compostable pouch and shipping envelope. We know the world isn’t going to change over night, but here are some ways we can all be reppin more green for St. Patrick’s day. 

Learn How to Spot a Sustainable Business

Businesses that make environmental claims on their sites have to follow strict guidelines from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). If a business is making vague statements using wording that seem to tiptoe around the official language that’s allowed to be used, you have reason to be suspicious. We recommend contacting businesses directly to ask about their sustainability efforts, if you are unsure. Companies that go the extra mile to ensure their leaving as little of a carbon footprint on the planet will always be happy to tell you about their efforts.

Grow Your Own Cannabis

Depending on which state you live in, you might be able to grow your own cannabis, and it’s actually a lot easier than you might think. An indoor hydroponic system is not only sustainable but also quick to grow your herb! Plus you can grow just about any veggie or fun herb like basil or peppermint too. Talk about killing two stones at once! Here is a step by step process on how to set up your own hydroponics system by Leafly. 

Pay Attention to the Packaging

They say it’s what’s on the inside that matters, but not when it comes to sustainability. The packaging of the product and how it’s produced and disposed of is just as important as what it’s carrying. Look for products that are biodegradable or compostable, and made from recycled materials. While we can’t make any holy claims, typically when a company spends the effort and money on crafting environmentally friendly packaging, you can expect their actual products to hold that same kind of quality as well. It might cost a little more than a less sustainable product, but know your extra dollars investing in a greener tomorrow. 

Smoke More, Drink Less

We know St. Patty’s day is notoriously a day of drinking in America, but since we can’t be throwing a party with strangers on the streets this year, may we suggest lighting up a blunt or two instead. Because guess what? Smoking cannabis is greener than drinking alcohol in more than just the obvious way. Cannabis brands got a “lucky” start, as it’s legalization came roughly at the same time with the rise of sustainability awareness. Businesses were therefore able to start with sustainability at the forefront of their minds, and create a whole structure to support it. Many liquor companies have been around for decades if not centuries. Their carbon footprints are much larger if they haven’t updated their business practices in the recent decades. Are they sourcing their glasses from overseas? Are they paying their farmers a fair wage? All of these play a role in the multi-dimensions of sustainability. 

So there ya have it! There are many ways one can become a more conscious consumer, but this is a great place to start if you haven’t already. Let’s push this green herb we all love to become even a deeper shade of green. We’re working on our part to nurture and care for this planet we call home. So keep it clean, and keep it green for a healthier Mother Earth.