California’s New Cannabis Vape Regulations: A Model for Sustainability?
As of July 1, 2024, California introduced significant changes to the regulation of cannabis vape products, driven by environmental concerns and the growing need for sustainable practices in the industry. Under California Business and Professional Code 26152.1, businesses are now prohibited from using the term “disposable” to describe marijuana vape products.
Additionally, THC oil, vape pens, and batteries must be treated as hazardous waste, requiring disposal at designated facilities. These updates aim to reduce the environmental impact of cannabis vapes, which often contain lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous components.
Retailers and brands in California are already stepping up to meet these demands. For example, Perfect Union, a retailer in Northern California, has introduced vape-disposal boxes across its stores to encourage proper waste disposal. Moreover, companies like Pax Labs are designing products with sustainability in mind, using reclaimed ocean-bound plastics in their devices.
New Mexico: What’s the Status?
In contrast, New Mexico’s cannabis regulations remain less strict regarding the labeling and disposal of cannabis vape products. While businesses are required to follow clear labeling guidelines for safety and environmental impact, there is no specific ban on the term “disposable” or a mandated recycling program for vape products. Current regulations focus more on ensuring consumer safety rather than implementing broad sustainability measures.
However, with California’s new rules setting a higher standard, New Mexico may soon face pressure to follow suit. Implementing similar laws could require retailers and brands to invest in sustainable packaging and disposal solutions, but it would also likely reduce the environmental impact of cannabis waste in the state.
The Bigger Question
Should New Mexico adopt California's model for vape regulations, the changes could result in a significant reduction in waste, especially with vape products that often contain hazardous materials. But doing so would also increase the burden on retailers to provide proper disposal options and educate consumers.
The question for New Mexicans: Would you support updating vape terminology and introducing stricter waste regulations if it meant helping protect the environment?
