In many states, recreational cannabis is now a mainstream thing. But not everything on your local dispensary’s shelf is equally good for the planet – or, in some cases, for you, either. Even setting aside the significant amount of illicit cannabis production, even licensed companies may use harmful pesticides and solvents or even engage in illegal and wasteful water practices. In honor of 4/20 and Earth Week which just happen to coincide, we’ve pulled together six sustainable cannabis brands that are putting environment and community front-and-center in how they do business. From organic farming to plastic-free packaging to equity employment and mentorship programs, these companies keep their standards high.
Sustainable Cannabis Brand Seaweed Naturals:
Seaweed Naturals, spearheaded by Ashlan Cousteau and Philippe Cousteau, grandson of the renowned Jacques Cousteau, certainly believes so. Their mission goes beyond mere sustainability; it’s about making a tangible, positive impact on our planet.
Seaweed Naturals stands firm in its conviction that simply aiming for sustainability isn’t sufficient. Instead, the brand strives for a net positive outcome for the environment. With every product sold, funds are directed towards marine conservation efforts. But their commitment doesn’t stop there.
The company exclusively partners with growers who embrace regenerative practices. By cultivating cannabis in harmony with nature, these growers not only produce high-quality products but also contribute to the restoration and preservation of marine ecosystems.
Seaweed Naturals isn’t just a cannabis brand; it’s a beacon of hope for our oceans. Through their innovative approach and unwavering dedication, Ashlan and Philippe Cousteau are paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future. Join the movement and support marine conservation with every purchase from Seaweed Naturals.
Sustainable Cannabis Brand Autumn:
Autumn Brands, a family-operated business, adopts the PURE cultivation method, which stands for “Pesticide-free, User-first, Responsibly grown, and Eco-friendly.” Situated in Santa Barbara County, California, their pesticide-free plants thrive under natural sunlight, not artificial grow-lights. Following harvest, these untreated plants are naturally air-dried over a span of 14 to 30 days. Committed to wellness, Autumn Brands presents a range of products including whole flower, prerolls, elixirs, and a specialized joint and muscle salve.
Sustainable Cannabis Brand Aster Farms:
Aster Farms prioritizes plants, planet, and community by embracing outdoor, no-till, regenerative farming practices for its cannabis cultivation. The company emphasizes responsible water usage and opts for eco-friendly glass packaging over plastic. In their annual sustainability report, Aster Farms highlights their commitment to building sustainable communities through inclusive hiring practices, supporting local equity-focused organizations, and fostering career development opportunities. This report is readily accessible online for consumers interested in learning more about the brand’s sustainability initiatives.
Sustainable Cannabis Brand Cosmic View:
Amidst a landscape of industrialized food and cannabis production, Cosmic View maintains unwavering commitment to crafting exquisite, holistic products. Their philosophy revolves around sourcing ingredients conscientiously and ethically, as stated on their website. Cosmic View prides itself on being a solvent-free brand that partners with small, regenerative farms. They are actively progressing towards their objective of achieving 100 percent organic certification.
Sustainable Cannabis Brand LEUNE:
LEUNE, a female-founded brand, positions itself as a “lifestyle brand tailored to the 3.0 cannabis consumer.” This mission-driven company aims not only to enhance consumers’ lives through cannabis but also to advocate for restorative justice. Proceeds from sales support initiatives such as the Last Prisoner Project and Floret Coalition. Explore their Gem Drops gummies line, along with their diverse offerings of whole flower, prerolls, and vape products.
Sustainable Cannabis Brand Stone Road:
Traditional industrial cannabis growing and processing methods often involve the use of harsh chemicals and excessive resource consumption. However, Stone Road takes a different approach by eschewing these practices entirely. Instead, they cultivate their plants on a small family farm that operates off-grid and relies solely on solar power. This LGBTQ-run company goes the extra mile by sourcing water from an aquifer beneath the farm and embracing biodynamic farming principles, resulting in a product that surpasses conventional organic standards.
Furthermore, Stone Road prioritizes sustainability in their packaging choices. They opt for eco-friendly materials such as recycled glass, reclaimed ocean plastic, and a rice-based alternative to traditional plastic shrink wrap, demonstrating their commitment to environmental responsibility throughout their production process.
