Here at canzen we’re always looking at sustainability, not just in what we do but in the wider industry. It’s something we advocate for often and we hope that this article helps make sustainability a primary factor for anyone considering growing their own.
Despite being one of the biggest, if not the biggest exporter of medical cannabis in the world, in the UK cannabis cultivation is illegal except for certain medical and research purposes, so for many sustainability may not seem like a top priority. However, with the potential for legalisation on the horizon and energy costs going through the ceiling now is the time for growers to start thinking about how they can cultivate cannabis in a way that is environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Just like the rest of us the key challenge facing cannabis growers in the UK is the high energy demands of indoor cultivation. Growing cannabis indoors requires a constant source of light, heat, and humidity, which can be energy-intensive. To address this issue growers should at least consider investing in energy-efficient lighting like LED panels, as well as incorporating natural light and ventilation wherever possible. Nowadays there’s not much excuse for the older less efficient bulbs, but we understand if you don’t want to just pop them in the window.
Water conservation is another important aspect of sustainable cannabis cultivation. Cannabis plants are known to be thirsty, and large-scale operations can use a significant amount of water. To reduce water usage, growers can implement drip irrigation systems and recycle water through the use of greywater systems. It’s also important to pay attention to the water quality, as using poor quality water can lead to nutrient deficiencies in the plants.
Soil health is another crucial factor in sustainably growing cannabis. The plants have a large root system and quickly deplete soil of nutrients so it’s important to use soil treatments and compost to replenish the nutrients and maintain soil health. Growers could consider using soil-less growing methods, such as hydroponics or aquaponics, which whilst more technical and have a higher upfront cost can be more water and nutrient efficient,
In addition to these practical considerations, growers can also consider the environmental impact of the products they use during cultivation. Pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals can have negative impacts on the environment and human health, so it’s important to use products that are organic and safe for both plants and humans. Plus, organic bud just sounds nicer y’know?
Finally, as the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, it’s important for growers to stay informed about best practices and new developments in sustainable cultivation. By embracing sustainability in their practices, UK cannabis growers can not only reduce their environmental impact, but also set an example for other growers and contribute to the overall sustainability of the industry.
Embracing sustainable cannabis cultivation in the UK is not only good for the environment, but it’s also more cost effective than ever! By adopting energy-efficient technologies, conserving water and soil resources, and using environmentally friendly products growers are going to be able to bring those costs down and ultimately improve the quality of their crops. As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve we believe that sustainability will become increasingly important, and those who embrace it now will be well positioned for the future.