Many consumers worldwide have become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases. The demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly products has risen across multiple markets, and the CBD industry is no exception.
If you’re interested in incorporating CBD products into your wellness routine while minimising your ecological footprint, it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to sustainability and make informed choices. This guide will provide a detailed exploration of the sustainability factors that go into buying CBD products in an environmentally-conscious way. Let’s jump right in!
Sourcing and Extraction
The first step toward sustainable CBD products lies in the sourcing and extraction processes. There are a few methods in the industry that are recognised for their sustainability, such as:
- Organic farming: CBD derived from organically grown hemp is considered more sustainable because it avoids the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers that can harm the environment and contaminate surrounding ecosystems.
- Regenerative agriculture: This method focuses on improving soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience. It involves practices such as cover cropping, crop rotation, composting, and minimising chemical usage. Regenerative agriculture aims to restore and enhance the natural resources used in CBD cultivation.
- CO2 extraction: This method uses carbon dioxide (CO2) as a solvent to extract CBD from hemp plants. Supercritical CO2 extraction is considered to be sustainable, because CO2 is a naturally occurring gas and it is safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly.
- Ethanol extraction: Ethanol, a renewable and plant-derived solvent, can be used to extract CBD from hemp. Ethanol is considered more sustainable than other chemical solvents, because it is biodegradable and derived from renewable resources.
- Closed-loop extraction systems: These systems are designed to minimise the release of solvents into the environment. They involve capturing and reusing solvents, such as CO2 or ethanol, in a closed-loop system, reducing waste and emissions.
- Hemp waste utilisation: Sustainable practices involve utilising as much of the hemp plant as possible to minimise waste. By using the stalks, leaves, and other by-products of hemp cultivation for purposes like composting, biofuels, textiles, or construction materials, the overall environmental impact can be reduced. Look for companies that prioritise hemp waste in different ways.
Packaging and Waste Reduction
Sustainable CBD products go beyond their contents and extend to their packaging. Look for products that prioritise recyclable or biodegradable packaging. Single-use plastics should be avoided in favour of eco-friendly materials such as glass, paper, or plant-based plastics.
Minimalist packaging design reduces excess packaging and materials, contributing to waste reduction. Some brands offer refillable or reusable options, further minimising environmental impact. Look for packaging certifications and verify claims of recyclability or biodegradability.
Ethical Supply Chain and Labour Practices
Ensuring ethical practices throughout the supply chain is another crucial aspect of sustainability. Choose brands that focus on fair trade and social responsibility. This means ensuring fair wages and working conditions for employees involved in the production process. Safe and healthy working environments should be a priority.
You can also look for brands that actively engage in community development projects and collaborate with local farmers and suppliers. Supporting sustainable CBD products means supporting the well-being of workers and communities.
Determining which CBD brands support ethical supply chain and labour practices requires conducting some research. Here are steps to help you assess a CBD brand’s commitment to ethical practices:
- Research the brand’s mission and values: Visit the brand’s website and look for information about their mission, values, and commitment to ethical practices. Some brands explicitly state their dedication to sustainable and ethical sourcing, labour practices, and social responsibility.
- Check for certifications and third-party testing: Look for CBD brands that have obtained relevant certifications or participate in third-party testing programmes. Certifications such as Fairtrade, Soil Association Organic, or Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) indicate a brand’s commitment to ethical standards and quality control.
- Review their supply chain transparency: Transparent CBD brands often provide information about their supply chain, including where their hemp is sourced, how it is cultivated, and the extraction methods used. Look for brands that openly share details about their suppliers and their commitment to fair labour practices.
- Look for social and environmental initiatives: Ethical CBD brands may actively engage in social and environmental initiatives. They might support local communities, contribute to sustainable farming practices, or invest in eco-friendly packaging. Look for evidence of such initiatives on the brand’s website, marketing campaigns, or in their social media.
- Contact the brand directly: If you have specific questions about a brand’s ethical practices that are not addressed on their website, consider reaching out to them directly.
Animal Welfare
If animal welfare is important to you, look for brands that uphold cruelty-free and vegan practices. This means products that are not tested on animals and do not contain animal-derived ingredients. Supporting these brands encourages the growth of a compassionate industry and protects animal rights. Some companies may also contribute to animal advocacy organisations, making a positive impact on animal welfare.
Product Lifespan and End-of-Life Management
Sustainable CBD products should be designed to last. Quality manufacturing and materials ensure longevity and durability, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Look for products backed by warranties or guarantees as a testament to their quality.
To further extend the lifespan of CBD product components, explore repurposing and upcycling options. Empty containers can be repurposed creatively to reduce waste.
Conclusion
Choosing sustainable, environmentally friendly CBD products requires research and due diligence. It involves considering various factors, from sourcing and extraction methods to packaging, labour practices, product lifespan, and supporting sustainable brands.
Look into a brand’s reputation and values. Transparency in their sustainability practices is key. Seek customer reviews and feedback to gauge their commitment to eco-consciousness.
Prioritising these practices will help you make informed choices that align with your values and contribute to a greener future. Remember, each purchase you make has the power to drive positive change, supporting ethical practices and reducing the overall ecological footprint of the CBD industry.
