As a seasoned grower in the Golden State, I’m excited to guide you through our practices that are setting new standards in the industry. From our cutting-edge greenhouse designs to our commitment to reusing materials and our vision for a solar-powered future, Statehouse is more than a cannabis cultivator and dispensary operator; we’re a symbol of responsible growth.
In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore:
So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, settle in, and join us on this journey through the world of cannabis cultivation.
Uncover the secrets of our success and explore the exciting possibilities that await in the world of sustainable cannabis growing.
What Sustainability Means in Cannabis
Sustainability: “the long-term viability of a community, set of social institutions, or societal practice. In general, sustainability is understood as a form of intergenerational ethics in which the environmental and economic actions taken by present persons do not diminish the opportunities of future persons to enjoy similar levels of wealth, utility, or welfare” – Britannica
At Statehouse, we believe that sustainability is essential to the future of cannabis cultivation. That’s why we are committed to using sustainable practices in our own cultivation operations.
We believe in the three pillars of sustainability: socially equitable, economically viable, and ecologically sound. These pillars are all essential to creating a sustainable cannabis industry.
Socially equitable cultivation practices ensure that the benefits of the industry are shared equitably, including with the workers who grow and harvest the plants. This means paying fair wages, providing safe working conditions, and respecting the rights of all workers.
Economically viable cultivation practices ensure that growers can make a profit and stay in business. This means using efficient production methods, minimizing waste, and finding new markets for cannabis products.
Ecologically sound cultivation practices protect the environment and natural resources. This means using less water, reducing pollution, and conserving soil.
Traditional Horticulture Practices in Cannabis Cultivation
But at Statehouse, we’re flipping the script.
These methods, while effective in the short term, can have long-term environmental impacts.
But here in the Golden State, we’re all about innovation and responsibility. At Statehouse, we’re not just growing cannabis; we’re cultivating a vision for a greener future.
We’re committed to minimizing our footprint, reducing harmful inputs, and optimizing our resource use.
It’s not just about being sustainable; it’s about setting a new standard for the industry.
As we transition from traditional horticulture practices, we’re paving the way for a more sustainable and responsible future in cannabis farming. And speaking of transitions, let’s dive deeper into our specific practices, starting with our innovative irrigation management practices.
Eco-Friendly Irrigation Management for Cannabis Cultivation
Water is a precious resource, especially in California, where conservation is not just a choice but a necessity.
At Statehouse, we recognize the importance of sustainable water management in our cannabis cultivation. Our innovative irrigation practices reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship.
At Statehouse, our greenhouses are equipped with cutting-edge precision irrigation systems that utilize drippers, ensuring that not a drop of water is wasted.
This approach has allowed us to reduce our overall water usage by an impressive 30% compared to traditional irrigation methods.
Being located in California, where water conservation is paramount, we’ve made water-saving practices an essential part of our sustainable horticulture production.
By using less water, we also minimize the diversion of water from rivers and estuaries, contributing positively to the environment.
It’s a win-win approach that aligns with our values and ensures that our plants thrive while we contribute to a more sustainable future.
Sustainable Horticultural Substrate to Grow Cannabis
Traditional soilless media, often reliant on unsustainable ingredients, have long been the norm. At Statehouse, we’re changing that narrative by introducing an innovative and eco-friendly approach to horticultural substrate.
Traditional soilless media typically consist of peat moss and perlite, both of which present sustainability challenges.
Perlite is a non-renewable resource, and the harvesting of peat moss from peat bogs can disrupt vital carbon sinks. Recognizing these issues, Statehouse has taken a bold step forward by formulating our media with 40% wood substrate.
This not only reduces the environmental impact but also offers a renewable and responsible alternative.
For cannabis cultivators, this shift towards wood substrate provides several benefits. It enhances water retention, improves soil aeration, and promotes healthy root development.
Moreover, by reducing reliance on non-renewable resources, it aligns cultivation practices with broader environmental goals, setting a new standard for responsible growing.
By embracing wood substrate and moving away from traditional, unsustainable materials, we’re not only nurturing our plants but also contributing to a greener and more responsible future.
It’s innovation with purpose!
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to Grow Sustainable Cannabis
At Statehouse, we believe in nurturing our cannabis plants with the utmost care and responsibility. Our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy is a testament to this commitment, ensuring that our cultivation practices are not only effective but also environmentally friendly.
Here’s how we make it happen:
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) at Statehouse isn’t just a practice; it’s a philosophy that emphasizes pest prevention, reduction, and the eradication of conditions that could lead to infestations.
Unlike conventional methods, we steer clear of pesticides by vigilantly preventing and monitoring our plants for pests.
When a pest is detected, we act swiftly, treating it with non-harmful solutions like entomopathogenic fungi, biological insecticides, or horticultural oils.
Additionally, our greenhouses are equipped with insect screens on the air intakes, nipping the pest problem in the bud from the very start.
Statehouse’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach is more than just a method; it’s a reflection of our dedication to sustainable and ethical cultivation.
By embracing natural solutions and proactive measures, we ensure that our plants grow in a healthy environment, free from harmful chemicals.
It’s our way of contributing to a greener future, one cannabis plant at a time.
Sustainable Approach to Greenhouse Design for Cannabis Cultivation
From energy-efficient cooling and heating systems to smart control and natural sunlight utilization, our greenhouses are a testament to innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and environmentally responsible practices, we’ve created a cultivation environment that not only nurtures our plants but also aligns with our commitment to a greener future.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the unique features of our greenhouse design that set Statehouse apart as a leader in cannabis cultivation and dispensary operation.
Cutting-Edge Greenhouse Cooling Technology for Sustainability
Here’s how we’ve achieved it:
Our greenhouses are ingeniously designed to cool themselves by opening roof vents, allowing hot air to escape.
Coupled with a positive pressure system that circulates fresh air through wet walls for an evaporative cooling effect, this method slashes electric use by an astonishing 80% compared to traditional cooling techniques.
Additionally, we’ve implemented variable frequency drive (VFD) for electric motors of pumps and fans, further reducing energy consumption by 18%.
By embracing advanced technologies, we not only ensure optimal growing conditions but also contribute to a greener future through significant energy savings.
Improving Air Quality with UV-Stable Greenhouse Covers
Here’s a closer look at our approach:
This significantly cuts natural gas consumption and enhances air quality.
As part of our air quality improvement plan, we’re upgrading to double-skinned UV transmittance acrylic greenhouse covers, replacing the existing single-skinned fiberglass ones.
This change will reduce energy costs by 55% annually and provide 100% UV stability, unlike current covers that yellow and become brittle over time.
Reducing Energy Consumption with High-Efficiency Greenhouse Heating
Here’s how we do it:
Our greenhouses are warmed with hydronic radiant floor heating, utilizing water recirculated from a natural gas-powered hot water boiler system.
This method is highly efficient, with our XTherm high-efficiency boiler boasting 99% thermal efficiency compared to conventional boilers at 80%.
Additionally, our water tank is heavily insulated to minimize heat loss, further reducing energy demand.
In addition to using a high-efficiency boiler, Statehouse also uses geothermally heated transport lines underground to transport water to the greenhouses. This helps to reduce energy consumption by preheating the water before it reaches the greenhouses.
The water tank is also heavily insulated to reduce heat loss and therefore reduce energy demand.
By employing cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design, we’ve created a system that not only nurtures our plants but also conserves energy, reinforcing our commitment to responsible cultivation.
Utilizing Sunlight for Efficiency and Warmth
One of our key sustainable design features is the use of natural sunlight, reducing the need for supplemental lighting and high electricity consumption.
This also helps keep the greenhouses warm during cold winter months by trapping the sun’s heat inside, minimizing the need for electrical heating.
Additionally, our greenhouses are equipped with an automated heat curtain system that allows for photo period control, shading, and insulation when needed.
This curtain system reduces natural gas usage by 30%, further enhancing our energy efficiency.
By harnessing the sun’s energy and implementing smart design features, we’re creating an environment that is not only conducive to plant growth but also aligned with our goals of energy conservation and environmental responsibility.
Reducing Emissions with Electric Cultivation Vehicles
That’s why at Statehouse, we’ve embraced electric vehicles, a decision that reflects our commitment to both the environment and streamlined operations.
Statehouse’s sprawling farm is far too extensive to traverse on foot, and that’s where our fleet of electric vehicles comes into play.
These vehicles are instrumental in transporting plants to drying chambers post-harvest, moving plants from the nursery to flower, and shuttling other materials across the farm.
But it’s not just about efficiency; it’s about sustainability too. By opting for electric vehicles, we’re reducing our reliance on traditional gasoline, a nonrenewable resource. This choice aligns with our broader goals of responsible farming and environmental stewardship.
For fellow cannabis cultivators, the adoption of electric vehicles can be a game-changer. It not only speeds up daily operations but also contributes to a greener footprint.
The transition from gasoline-powered vehicles to electric ones is a step towards a more sustainable future in cannabis cultivation, and it’s a path that we at Statehouse are proud to tread.
By embracing this green technology, we’re not only enhancing our efficiency but also making a positive impact on the environment.
Using Sustainable LED Lighting to Grow Cannabis
Cannabis is a unique crop that thrives on abundant light, and at Statehouse, we’ve turned to LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology to meet this demand in the most sustainable way possible.
Unlike traditional lighting, LED lights are constructed to be more energy-efficient, using 75% less energy. They are typically composed of red and blue lights, creating a distinctive purple shine.
This specific color combination is no accident; plants reflect green light and mainly absorb wavelengths corresponding to red and blue colors. By focusing on these wavelengths, LED lights provide the precise nourishment that cannabis plants crave.
The adoption of LED lighting can be transformative. It offers a way to provide plants with the intense light they require while significantly reducing energy consumption.
The unique color spectrum also aligns with the plants’ natural absorption patterns, making it an effective and environmentally responsible choice.
Statehouse’s use of LED lights in our cannabis cultivation practices is a shining example of innovation meeting sustainability. By embracing this advanced technology, we’re not only nurturing our plants with the optimal light spectrum but also contributing to a greener future.
Re-using Plastic Containers to Reduce Waste
Here’s how we’ve turned a potential waste problem into an opportunity for eco-friendly farming.
Instead, we’ve implemented a process to give them new life. After each harvest, we remove the old substrate and add it to our compost pile, then thoroughly sanitize the plastic containers.
Once clean, these containers are ready to be reused, preventing the unnecessary waste associated with single-use plastics.
For fellow cannabis cultivators looking to embrace sustainability, this practice offers a practical and environmentally responsible solution.
By reusing plastic containers, we not only reduce waste but also contribute to a more circular economy within our operations. It’s a simple yet impactful step that aligns with the broader goals of responsible cannabis cultivation.
By taking this proactive approach, we’re not only minimizing waste but also setting an example for responsible farming practices.
Composting to Reduce Waste and Improve Soil Health
Here’s how we transform waste into nourishment for our employee community garden:
Once we harvest a plant, the journey doesn’t end there. The used substrate and root ball, along with green waste from production and food waste from our employees, are all composted.
This process allows the material to naturally break down, turning what might have ended up in a landfill into valuable nutrients for plants.
But we don’t stop there; we utilize this compost in our employee community garden, enhancing the soil’s water-holding properties and enriching it with essential nutrients.
For fellow cannabis cultivators, composting offers a sustainable and rewarding path. It not only reduces waste but also creates a valuable resource that can nourish other plants.
It’s a practice that aligns with the principles of responsible farming and contributes to a more circular and environmentally friendly approach to cannabis cultivation.
By turning waste into nourishment, we’re not only minimizing our environmental impact but also fostering a sense of community through our employee garden. It’s a strategy that resonates with our ethos and one that sets the stage for our next section, where we’ll explore even more ways we’re working to create a greener future in the cannabis industry.
Investing in Sustainable Future for Cannabis
Here’s a glimpse into our future sustainability efforts that aim to set new standards in the industry:
Solar-Powered Electricity: We’re on a path to reach net zero, where our carbon emissions will be equal to or less than the carbon we remove from the atmosphere. By converting to solar-powered electricity, we’re making strides towards this goal. The due diligence for this project has already begun, and we expect to complete it by 2024.
CO2 Implementation in Greenhouses: Improving plant performance and yield is at the heart of our cultivation practices. We’re planning to implement CO2 recycling by utilizing what’s emitted from our existing natural gas usage. This innovative approach will not only enhance our plants’ growth but also contribute to our overall sustainability efforts.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our greenhouses. We’re planning to install electric vehicle charging stations in a covered parking lot for all employees. This initiative will reduce gas usage and emissions, aligning with our broader goals of environmental responsibility.
Statehouse’s future sustainability efforts are more than plans; they’re a roadmap to a greener future in cannabis cultivation.
These future efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in cannabis cultivation. They represent the next steps in our journey towards a more responsible and environmentally friendly approach to growing and dispensing cannabis.
Conclusion: A Journey Towards Sustainable Cannabis Cultivation
As experienced growers in California, we understand that cultivating cannabis is about more than just producing a crop. It’s about nurturing the environment, fostering community, and leading the way in responsible and ethical practices. Our composting efforts, electric vehicle initiatives, and LED lighting strategies are not just operational choices; they’re reflections of our values.
At Statehouse, we’re not just looking at the present; we’re planning for a future where sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Our future efforts, including converting to solar-powered electricity and implementing CO2 recycling, are paving the way for a greener tomorrow.
For those embarking on or continuing their cannabis growing journey, the insights and practices shared in this blog post offer valuable guidance. Whether you’re a novice grower or a seasoned expert, there’s always room to learn, grow, and innovate.
We invite you to explore further and join us in this exciting journey towards sustainable cannabis cultivation. Visit our Cannabis Cultivation Resources page to find all the information you need to start or enhance your cannabis growing adventure. Together, we can sow the seeds for a more responsible and connected future in the world of cannabis.