Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2021
Publication Title
Journal of Cannabis Research
Keywords
cannabis cultivation, water demand, BVOCs emission, carbon footprint, soil erosion
Abstract
Interest in growing cannabis for medical and recreational purposes is increasing worldwide. This study reviews the environmental impacts of cannabis cultivation. Results show that both indoor and outdoor cannabis growing is water-intensive. The high water demand leads to water pollution and diversion, which could negatively affect the ecosystem. Studies found out that cannabis plants emit a significant amount of biogenic volatile organic compounds, which could cause indoor air quality issues. Indoor cannabis cultivation is energy-consuming, mainly due to heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and lighting. Energy consumption leads to greenhouse gas emissions. Cannabis cultivation could directly contribute to soil erosion. Meanwhile, cannabis plants have the ability to absorb and store heavy metals. It is envisioned that technologies such as precision irrigation could reduce water use, and application of tools such as life cycle analysis would advance understanding of the environmental impacts of cannabis cultivation.
Funding Source
The authors would like to thank Illinois State University for supporting this project.
DOI
10.1186/s42238-021-00090-0
Recommended Citation
Zheng, Zhonghua; Fiddes, Kelsey; and Yang, Liangcheng, "A Narrative Review on Environmental Impacts of Cannabis Cultivation" (2021). Faculty Publications - Agriculture. 7.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/fpag/7
Comments
First published in the Journal of Cannabis Research 3, 35 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00090-0.
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