CBD and Sustainability: The Intersection of Health and Environmental Benefits

Sustainability and Cannabis legalisation have been up there as some of the hottest discussed topics… I mean look at your twitter timeline, chances are you’ve probably read a tweet about it!  

But how does CBD and sustainability interact with one another?

This article will give you a better insight into their intersubjectivity! 

As CBD's popularity has skyrocketed, so too has the demand for hemp, the plant from which CBD is derived. And as with any crop, hemp production impacts the environment. So, what is the relationship between CBD and sustainability? Can we consume CBD products in a way that is both good for our health and the planet?

In this article, we'll explore the sustainability of CBD production, from the farm to the final product. We'll also discuss how consumers can make informed, environmentally-conscious choices when purchasing CBD products.

The Environmental Impact of Hemp Production

Hemp has a long history of use as a versatile and sustainable crop. It requires minimal inputs and has a naturally low impact on the environment compared to other crops. Hemp can be grown without pesticides and herbicides and has a deep root system that helps prevent soil erosion.

However, like any agricultural crop, hemp production impacts the environment. Water usage is a primary concern, as hemp is a thirsty plant that requires significant irrigation. Hemp is also a heavy feeder, meaning it requires a lot of nutrients from the soil. If these nutrients are not replenished, it can lead to soil degradation over time.

One way that hemp farmers are working to minimise production's environmental impact is through regenerative agriculture practices. These practices aim to improve the health and fertility of the soil rather than just taking from it. Techniques such as cover cropping, composting, and crop rotation can help to improve soil health and reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers and pesticides.

Organic vs Conventional Hemp Production

Regarding sustainability, how hemp is grown can make a big difference. Hemp that is produced using organic practices is generally considered to be more sustainable than conventionally-grown hemp.

Organic hemp is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers. Instead, farmers rely on natural methods to control pests and nourish the soil. This reduces the environmental impact of hemp production and results in a healthier product for consumers.

While organic hemp may be more sustainable, it is typically more expensive. This can result in higher prices for consumers. However, consuming an organic product's peace of mind and potential health benefits outweigh the cost for many people.

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Sustainability in CBD Extraction and Processing

Once the hemp plant has been harvested, it goes through a process known as extraction to separate the CBD from the plant material. There are several different methods of extraction, each with its own environmental considerations.

One of the most common methods of extraction is supercritical CO2 extraction. This method uses pressurised CO2 to extract CBD, producing a high-quality product with minimal environmental impact. However, it does require a significant amount of energy to operate, which can be a concern from a sustainability standpoint.

Another method of extraction is solvent extraction, which uses chemicals such as ethanol or hexane to extract CBD. While this method is less energy-intensive, it can produce a lower-quality product. It may have negative environmental consequences if the solvents are not correctly disposed of.

For more information on this topic do not hesitate to click on the study we have linked here:

https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00087-9

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