As the cannabis industry continues to grow, so does its environmental footprint. But a groundbreaking new study shows that a simple shift in how we grow could make all the difference. By moving from indoor to outdoor cannabis cultivation, the industry could cut its greenhouse gas emissions by up to 76%. In this blog, we explore what this means for growers, consumers, and the planet.
The Hidden Cost of Cannabis: What’s Happening Behind the Scenes?
Cannabis is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States and around the world. With legalization expanding in more states and countries, cannabis is more accessible than ever before. But what most people don’t realize is that indoor cannabis cultivation uses a lot of energy.
Lights, air conditioners, heaters, fans, and dehumidifiers all run nearly non-stop in indoor grow facilities. This is especially true in places where growing outdoors isn’t an option because of laws, weather, or space. According to a study by Colorado State University, producing just one kilogram of dried cannabis flower indoors can create between 2.6 and 5.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) — roughly equal to the emissions of flying round-trip between San Francisco and Tokyo. That’s a huge environmental impact for one plant.
Outdoor Cultivation: Nature’s Clean Alternative
So, what can be done? The answer might be as simple as going back to the basics — growing outdoors.
A new scientific review suggests that switching to outdoor cannabis cultivation could reduce emissions by up to 76% across the industry. In some cases, outdoor farming is 50 times less polluting than indoor grows.
Why such a dramatic difference?
• Natural sunlight replaces the need for high-powered grow lights.
• Fresh air and natural humidity reduce the use of fans and dehumidifiers.
• Fewer artificial inputs mean lower utility costs and less dependence on fossil fuels.
By letting nature do more of the work, outdoor grows slash carbon emissions and support a healthier environment. It’s a win for the planet — and for sustainable cannabis culture.
Real Talk: Challenges of Growing Outdoors
Of course, switching to outdoor cultivation isn’t as easy as flipping a switch. There are real-world challenges growers have to face, such as:
• Weather conditions: Outdoor grows are vulnerable to extreme temperatures, storms, and early frosts.
• Pests and mold: Without the controlled conditions of indoor grows, crops are more exposed to natural threats.
• Zoning laws and regulations: In many areas, local or state laws may limit where and how cannabis can be grown outdoors.
Additionally, some regions don’t have the right climate or daylight hours to support outdoor cannabis year-round. That’s why hybrid methods like greenhouse cultivation — which uses both natural and artificial systems — are also gaining popularity as a sustainable middle ground.
The Bigger Picture: Why It Matters
This shift toward outdoor growing is more than just a farming decision — it’s part of a bigger mission to make cannabis cleaner, greener, and more sustainable. As the industry expands, it has a responsibility to reduce harm and lead by example.
At High Science, we believe that cannabis is more than a plant — it’s a movement. From medical benefits to environmental innovation, we’re proud to highlight stories that show how cannabis is transforming lives and the planet. Our mission is to educate, inform, and empower our community through honest dialogue, progressive thinking, and a deep respect for both nature and science.
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