Augur Associates, a consulting agency specializing in cannabis, has just generated the first carbon capture credits based on hempcrete in the EU, an important step for the development of French industrial hemp worldwide.

Representing a step forward towards sustainable practices, these credits are developed using a comparative LCA integrating Riverse's biogenic carbon capture methodology, a French carbon standard specializing in the circular economy.

The impact of the methodology goes beyond the environmental field, contributing to various UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030. The impact of the Cannabis sativa L. plant to achieve them has notably been listed by independent researcher Kenzi Riboulet Zemouli (https://cannabis2030.org/) and listed below:

1. SDG 6 – Water savings: Hemp-based carbon capture process promotes efficient water use
2. SDG 7 – Energy savings: Both in the production process and thanks to improved thermal inertia, Augur's methodology contributes to significant energy savings
3. SDG 8 – Sustainable and inclusive economic growth: Augur's commitment to sustainable practices promotes economic growth that is both sustainable and inclusive
4. SDG 9 – Innovative and sustainable construction: The methodology contributes to the development of innovative and sustainable construction practices
5. SDG 11 – Resilient cities: The use of hempcrete blocks in construction strengthens the resilience of urban areas
6. SDG 13 – Fight against climate change: Augur's carbon capture methodology actively contributes to the fight against climate change
7. SDG 15 – Protect, restore and promote sustainable terrestrial ecosystems: Use of hemp-based carbon capture supports sustainable terrestrial ecosystems

Augur Associates' innovative approach paves the way for a new era of nature-based carbon credits aligned with the EU carbon removal certification framework. These credits have a 100-year permanence proven and quantified each year, adherence to ICVCM and QU.ALITY standards, and are tangible retroactive credits, accompanied by numerous co-benefits described below.

The driving force behind Augur Associates' achievement is the development of cutting-edge methodology for the BIOSYS Hemp Concrete Block and MULTICHANVRE – Vieille Matériaux, a French company specializing in carbon sequestration within hemp concrete blocks. hemp used for construction and insulation.

VERIFAVIA, a key player in environmental certification and validation, carried out the audit and validation of the Augur process, thus ensuring its compliance. The INIES database and the EIHA – European Industrial Hemp Association – have been instrumental in supporting this project, providing valuable information and research.

The Crédit Carbone Chanvre project was led within Augur Associates by Christophe Nourissier, responsible for sustainable development, Nathaniel Loxley, director of operations, and Benjamin-Alexandre Jeanroy, CEO. The multiple advantages of the methodology used validate its potential to reshape the landscape of carbon credit generation and environmental management.

The author of this article, also co-founder of Augur Associates, was not involved in this project.

In the wake of the agricultural law (Farm Bill) of 2018 legalizing hemp and its derivatives in the United States, the market for hemp-derived cannabinoids has experienced unprecedented growth. In particular, delta-8 THC, a less potent but still psychotropic compound, has grown significantly in popularity, providing an alternative for users seeking a legal high.

This evolution, particularly visible in states that have not adopted comprehensive cannabis reform measures, was recently the subject of a study published by theAmerican Medical Association (AMA). It highlights the impact of cannabis prohibition on the increase in the consumption of synthetic cannabinoids.

The hemp-derived cannabinoid landscape

The AMA-supported study, conducted by the University of Michigan, the University at Buffalo and the Legacy Research Institute, examined trends in lesser-known cannabinoids such as delta-8 THC, CBG, and CBN, while providing an update on CBD consumption. Conducted among 1,169 adults in June 2023, the study looked at the use and knowledge of these cannabinoids over the past year.

According to the study, 26.3% of participants reported using cannabis in the past year, and 71.7% were aware of CBD. Delta-8 THC, CBG, and CBN were known by 41.2%, 18.4%, and 16.8% of participants, respectively. Data revealed a 50% increase in CBD consumption over the past four years, with its accessibility made easier by Farm Bill of 2018.

THC Delta-8 emerged as a notable player, with 11.9% of participants reporting using it in the past year. The study also found that 25.2% of participants reported using an emerging cannabinoid in the past year. Interestingly, residing in US states with cannabis laws is negatively correlated with delta-8 THC consumption, indicating that legal access to THC products from cannabis may dissuade consumers from exploring synthetic hemp-derived alternatives.

Influence of cannabis prohibition on delta-8 THC

The study posits that cannabis prohibition inadvertently promotes the popularity of delta-8-THC, a cannabinoid existing in trace amounts naturally, and therefore synthesized in the laboratory from CBD. The authors point out that the prevalence of delta-8-THC use is higher in states without medical or adult-use cannabis laws, suggesting that legal restrictions are unintentionally pushing consumers toward this synthetic cannabinoid. . People living in states without recreational cannabis laws were more than twice as likely to have used delta-8 THC in the past year.

The study authors highlight the importance of these findings by stating: “The higher consumption of delta-8 THC in states without medical or adult-use cannabis laws suggests that cannabis prohibition may unintentionally promote 'use of delta-8 THC'.

This observation raises concerns about unintended consequences of cannabis prohibition, particularly in younger age groups, where cannabis use in the past year was more prevalent.

The study acknowledges the lack of controlled human studies on neocannabinoids, but notes that survey data indicates that these products are commonly used to treat sleep or pain, as a replacement for other pharmaceuticals. In light of these findings, the authors advocate continued public health surveillance efforts to control new cannabinoids due to the lack of industry standards and the potentially similar effects of delta-8 THC and its derivative-derived equivalents. hemp versus delta-9 THC.

There Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) also spoke out on the issue, specifying that synthetic cannabinoids were prohibited. A recent 2023 revelation confirmed that delta-8 THC synthesized from legal CBD is considered a controlled substance banned by the DEA. The issue should be addressed head-on in the next version of the Farm Billinitially planned for this year, but now postponed to 2024.

Nearly two years after the failure of a referendum on the legalization of cannabis and the reform of psychedelics, Italian activists are rallying behind a new, more targeted initiative.

The proposed legislation, titled “The Decriminalization of the Cultivation of Cannabis for Personal Use and Associated Forms,” aims to authorize the home cultivation of up to four cannabis plants, create Cannabis Social Clubs and eliminate penalties for consumers. As the campaign gains momentum, supporters are optimistic that it can bring the issue back to the forefront of Italy's legislative agenda.

The momentum is given

In 2022, a referendum on the legalization of cannabis was rejected by the Constitutional Court. Far from being discouraged, activists like Marco Perduca, a former Italian senator, have banded together to take more targeted action. Mr. Perduca underlined the determination of the movement by declaring: “Parliament will be forced to listen to us, but only when we have collected 50,000 signatures.”

This new initiative, launched earlier this month, has already garnered significant support, with more than 20,000 certified signatures collected in the first week.

Antonella Soldo, coordinator of theLegal Legal Associationone of Italy's main pro-cannabis pressure groups, was enthusiastic about the speed of the response.

She noted the broad support the initiative received, saying: “Our proposal has garnered substantial support from a wide range of individuals and communities who express the urgent need for change.” Ms. Soldo is confident that the initiative, based on scientific evidence and inspired by models like Germany, will resonate with the public.

Main provisions of the bill

The eight-page legalization bill focuses on decriminalizing the cultivation of cannabis for personal use. Among the main provisions are the authorization to cultivate up to four cannabis plants for personal use and the creation of Cannabis Social Clubs. These clubs would be authorized to cultivate cannabis and distribute it exclusively to their members. In addition, the bill aims to authorize the possession of a maximum of 30 grams of cannabis, while removing administrative sanctions such as withdrawal of driving license and passport.

The campaign insists that driving under the influence will remain punishable, which will reinforce the responsible use of cannabis. The bill draws on models from other European countries, particularly Germany, where similar legislation has come under scrutiny by EU institutions.

Antonella Soldo clarified that “this may seem like an unattainable dream, but soon it will all become reality in Germany. This is why we have decided to launch a popular initiative bill to legalize the domestic cultivation of cannabis now! »

The proposal's authors believe that aligning with other European countries adds credibility to their cause and provides a roadmap for effective cannabis reform.

The campaign must now collect the required 50,000 signatures within six months to force Parliament to address the issue. More than 20,000 signatures having been collected during the first week, the bar is not very high!

Argentina's Cannabis Regulatory Agency, ARICCAME, recently granted the first six licenses for the production and marketing of medical cannabis. This decision constitutes an important step towards achieving the objectives set out in Law 27.669, which establishes the regulatory framework for the national medical cannabis and hemp industry.

Approved businesses

The six companies that received these pioneering licenses are Agrogenetica Riojana and Biofábrica Misiones from La Rioja, Inkillay from Tucumán, Whale Leaf from Chubut, and Botannicans and Pampa Hemp from Buenos Aires. Francisco Echarren, president of ARICCAME, expressed his satisfaction, emphasizing that these licenses mark the beginning of a new era for the national industry, in accordance with the provisions of Law 27.669.

Argentina believes in the economic potential of the medical cannabis and industrial hemp industry. Official figures indicate the sector could generate up to 10,000 registered jobs over the next three years, with a domestic market estimated at $500 million. Experts are also excited about the possibility of additional exports of up to $1 billion. Pablo Fazio, president of the Argentine Cannabis Chamber, considers these developments a “historic triumph” and believes it is just the starting point for the Argentine cannabis industry.

Challenges and perspectives

As ARICCAME's new management takes office, a one-stop shop, designed for the presentation of productive projects, should be quickly operational. It will ensure speedy bidding for production licenses and open up opportunities for various players across the country. Rolando García, researcher, underlines at Sechat that effective public policies for the cannabis industry require dynamic regulation capable of meeting the diverse needs of all stakeholders.

In a global context where the legal cannabis industry is booming, Argentina has the potential to emerge as a leader in the sector. With more than 53 projects authorized in 17 provinces and the possibility of mobilizing up to $500 million per year on the domestic market, the country is at a turning point. The Argentine Cannabis Chamber (ArgenCann) forecasts $1 billion in exports and the creation of 10,000 jobs over the next four years, matching global growth forecasts for the legal cannabis industry.

Concerns over political changes

Recent political changes, including the election of new president Javier Milei, have raised concerns within the cannabis industry. The resignation of ARICCAME's president and directors, coupled with uncertainty regarding the continuity of the agency, has sparked apprehension among industry players. Pablo Fazio, president of ArgenCann, highlights the importance of continuity of public policies to ensure the growth and sustainability of the industry.

Valeria Salech, president of the NGO Mama Cultiva Argentina, speaks on ElPlanteo the importance of dialogue and hopes for an accessible, diverse and plural cannabis market that respects individual freedom. Dr. César Dip, a specialist in pain medicine and cannabis, is concerned about the potential privatization of the public health system and its impact on medical cannabis users.

Despite the challenges, Pablo Fazio calls for calm and the reconstruction of agendas, foreseeing the need for a more orderly and open market, especially in terms of foreign trade. Concerns persist about potential risks, including increased repression and persecution of cannabis users and producers. Industry lawyer Piero Liebman warns of regulatory uncertainty and its potential impact on small producers and organizations.

Across the world, cannabis regulations are experiencing an era of significant transformations and regulatory developments. The United States and Canada, two mature markets, have led the way, but attention is now turning to Europe.

Despite a fragmented and heavily regulated business environment, the continent is poised to open up to adult-use cannabis markets, with unique approaches depending on different European countries.

The European landscape of legal cannabis

According to the latest global report Prohibition Partners: 4th edition, the adult-use cannabis market in the United States reached $17 billion last year and is expected to exceed, with medical sales, $33 billion this year. In Canada, adult-use cannabis sales are around $6 billion. However, the focus is shifting to Europe, where countries are overcoming regulatory hurdles with innovative approaches.

Notably, some European countries are legalizing cannabis for adult use under the guise of scientific research. Switzerland, the Netherlands and Germany are at the forefront of this approach, employing pilot projects to assess the consequences of legal commercial supply chains on society, health and youth protection.

Two models emerge

The European cannabis industry is thus gradually evolving between the meshes of two emerging models for the legalization of adult use. The first is based on “private non-profit organizations”, also called Cannabis Social Clubs, whose members are registered and take care of the cultivation of cannabis and the distribution of the harvest among themselves. Malta and the next German pillar illustrate this model, which further allows citizens to grow cannabis at home. In this model, industry is very little involved.

The second model includes “spatially limited and tightly controlled supply chains”, as Switzerland and the Netherlands are testing, and as Germany is proposing in its second phase of regulation. These supply chains, of fixed duration, aim to explore efficient and compliant ways to legally distribute cannabis.

Switzerland’s pioneering tests

Switzerland has taken a step forward with the passage of its pilot trials into real life, marking the “first fully legally compliant adult-use supply chains in Europe”. Switzerland currently has four active trials, with an estimated number of participants of 4,100, which is expected to increase to 10,000 in the coming months. This initiative makes Switzerland a pioneer in establishing a legal market for adult use in Europe.

The Netherlands joins the movement

The Netherlands, which has long advocated progressive drug policies, recently announced the establishment of a pilot project for adult use. Coffee shops in the Breda and Tilburg regions can now legally source cannabis from licensed domestic producers. This is a significant change because, for the first time, a fully compliant seed-to-sale supply chain will serve a significant adult-use market in Europe.

A European dynamic

Germany, with its CanG bill, is moving towards the legalization of adult use, albeit in a modified form. The Czech Republic is also making strides, considering commercial cannabis cultivation and the creation of Cannabis Clubs for adult use. Portugal has announced the formation of a working group on the legalization of adult use, while the Belgian deputy prime minister calls for reflection inspired by the progress of neighboring countries.

Navigating the European cannabis landscape is not without challenges. Compliance with the rules set by the European Commission, as in Germany, remains an obstacle. However, if successfully overcome, the European adult-use cannabis market could become an important business sector. The year 2024 therefore promises to be a pivotal year, with innovative models and pilot projects that may or may not shape the future. Although the challenges are still numerous, the dynamic is undeniable.

Curaleaf, one of the largest multistate cannabis operators based in New York – comprising a cannabis company that sells in different states in the United States – will enter the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) this Thursday, December 14 under the symbol CURA.

This strategic and financial move follows the conditional approval of the company’s listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange in order to access a greater number of investors on the Canadian stock exchange. The company’s leadership, including CEO Matt Darin and Executive Chairman Boris Jordan, will mark this milestone by ringing the TSX opening bell.

.@Boris_JordanExecutive Chairman, @Curaleaf_Inc (TSX:CURA), and his team joined us to open the market and celebrate the Company’s listing on Toronto Stock Exchange.

Curaleaf is the leading international provider of cannabis consumer products with a mission to enhance lives by… pic.twitter.com/lKzN0StRB0

— Canada’s Markets (@tsx_tsxv) December 14, 2023

The decision to move to the Toronto Stock Exchange is part of a broader trend in the cannabis industry, with TerrAscend doing the same earlier in the year. Both companies seek to improve their access to institutional investors globally and increase long-term stock liquidity.

Alongside this listing, Curaleaf carried out a significant internal reorganization of its US operations, as indicated in their press release. This internal reorganization of Curaleaf aims in particular to make the company more attractive to investors, comply with regulations, improve stock trading and adapt to the challenges and uncertainties of the cannabis industry.

In details :

1. Access to a broader investor base: Listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange allows Curaleaf to attract a greater number of investors, including institutional investors. This broader investor base can improve the financial support and liquidity of the company.
2. Comply with regulatory requirements: Internal reorganization involves changes in the structure of shares and voting rights of the company. These adjustments are likely made to comply with regulatory requirements, particularly in the context of the evolution and complexity of U.S. cannabis regulations.
3. Increase the liquidity of shares: By taking these strategic steps, Curaleaf intends to improve the liquidity of its shares in the long term. This can make it easier for investors to buy and sell shares and potentially increase the overall value of the company.
4. Resolving regulatory uncertainties: The creation of a new category of exchangeable shares without voting rights gives shareholders the possibility of converting their shares. This flexibility is designed to help investors navigate the uncertainties surrounding cannabis regulations in the United States.
5. Improving corporate governance: The shareholders’ agreement and the protection agreement emphasize governance. These agreements define rights and obligations, providing a clear framework for decision-making and ownership, thereby contributing to a stable and well-governed business structure.

A bipartisan group of Wisconsin state lawmakers are poised to introduce a bill that could, if passed, decriminalize the possession of small amounts of cannabis for adults.

Led by Republican state Rep. Shae Sortwell and her Democratic counterparts, Sen. Lena Taylor and Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez, the proposed bill aims to end criminal penalties associated with possession of a maximum quantity of half an ounce (14 grams) of cannabis.

Push towards decriminalization

The bipartisan bill, as reported by Marijuana Moment, aims to address the disproportionate penalties imposed for minor cannabis offenses in the state of Wisconsin. The authors of the proposal say that “for simple marijuana possessions, Wisconsin should not throw people in prison.” The proposed legislation would decriminalize possession of 14 grams of cannabis for adults and replace incarceration with fines of up to $100.

Citing the legislative memo, the authors emphasize the urgency of aligning with national trends and those of neighboring states: “North Dakota, New Hampshire, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and Nebraska have passed laws that eliminate prison time for possession of small amounts of marijuana…It’s time for Wisconsin to join the national debate.”

Main provisions of the decriminalization project

Reform of repeat offender laws: The bill introduces an amendment that exempts convictions for possession of less than 28 grams of cannabis from repeat offender laws. This provision ensures that minor offenses do not result in harsher penalties upon subsequent conviction, constituting a significant change from the existing legal framework.

Community service in lieu of fines: the legislation allows judges to impose community service, lasting between 16 and 40 hours, instead of fines for possession offenses. This provision aims to balance the scales of justice and divert resources from minor cannabis cases to more serious crimes.

Local weed ban and fines: Given the current authority of local jurisdictions to pass cannabis prohibition ordinances, the bill establishes a framework requiring fines of at least $100, but not more than $250, for possession offenses cannabis, in order to standardize penalties across the state.

Discretionary power of law enforcement: Recognizing the strain on police resources, the bill grants law enforcement discretion in charging cannabis possession cases. Police officers will be able to choose whether or not to arrest and detain a suspect, in order to redirect valuable resources toward combating serious and violent crime.

Employer Responsibility and Drug Testing: Recognizing evolving workplace policies, the legislation limits the liability of employers who choose not to subject employees to cannabis drug testing. The move is part of a national trend away from costly drug testing practices, giving employers autonomy to decide testing policies.

Cannabis legalization on the horizon

While the decriminalization bill is a step toward cannabis reform, it’s not the only legislative initiative gaining traction in Wisconsin. In September, Democratic lawmakers Sen. Melissa Agard and Rep. Darrin B. Madison introduced a comprehensive cannabis legalization bill. This broader measure not only advocates for the decriminalization of cannabis use, but also supports the regulated production, distribution and sale of cannabis and its products.

Greek MEP Stelios Kouloglou has called on the European Commission (EC) to address the lack of a legislative framework for medical cannabis, which leaves patients dependent on the illegal market. Although Greece was one of the first European countries to legalize medical cannabis in 2017, six years later Greek patients are still unable to access legal products.

In 2018, a broader law was introduced allowing the cultivation of cannabis products with THC content above 0.3%, but domestic production has been slow.

Then, in November 2021, the Greek government banned the importation of cannabis products, which according to local sources constitutes a “violation of the fundamental principles of the EU” under Article 28 of the treaty of the EU, namely the free movement of goods between Member States.

As a result, thousands of patients still rely on cannabis obtained from the illegal market or grown on their own to treat serious medical conditions.

In his question to the European Commission on Tuesday 5 December, Mr Kouloglou called on officials to look into this issue and the need for a European legislative framework for medical cannabis which would “effectively limit the black market, regulate the quality and accuracy of labeling and would ensure legal and safe access to medicinal products for medical use.”

“The use of cannabis for medical purposes is universally accepted,” he said.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) is proposing to prescribe it for a wide range of pathologies and the European Parliament has called on European and national authorities to address the issue legislatively, to fund research and innovation and to provide information to healthcare professionals. »

“Medical cannabis has been legalized in Greece since 2017, for the cultivation and production of products with a THC content above 0.3%, but patients currently do not have access to the formulations and the few national investment sources were slow to produce. »

Kouloglou added: “Furthermore, in November 2021, the Greek government banned the importation of medical cannabis products, in violation of Article 28 of the TFEU (Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union), creating thus oligopolistic conditions in the country. As a result, patients have been forced to resort to the illegal market to treat many health problems.”

In January, Tikun Olam Europe, a subsidiary of Israeli cannabis company Tikun Olam, announced that operations had begun at Greece’s first medicinal cannabis production facility.

The first flower-based products were to be available at the end of 2023, or even later in 2024.

Patients and families remain “criminals

Jacqueline Poitras, founder of the Greek patient advocacy association MAMAKA, which has been heavily involved in the campaign for the legalization of medical cannabis, said it was time for the EU to tackle the ” inequality” of access.

“It is time for the European Parliament and the Commission to address the issue of equal access for patients in all states of the European Union,” she told Cannabis Health.

“The inequality between Member States regarding medicinal cannabis legislation is a direct violation of the spirit and laws that govern patients’ rights within the European Union – each country has been left to its own devices -itself and the responsibility for change rests squarely on the shoulders of patients. »

Ms Poitras added: “In Greece, six years of ‘legal medical use’ have failed to provide legal products to more than a handful of patients. The government’s import ban has done nothing to protect local investors – it has simply extended the period during which families and patients remain criminals.”

In 3 days, the Netherlands opens its experiment in legal cannabis cultivation and distribution, marking an important step in ending the “backdoor” policy that allows coffeeshops to sell cannabis but not to supply it , but also more broadly for the European cannabis industry.

Originally scheduled to launch several years ago, the legal cannabis experiment will begin on Friday, December 15, 2023, after suffering numerous delays.

The Dutch cabinet has given the green light to the start-up phase of the experiment, involving only three authorized legal growers – Fyta Group, Canadelaar and Aardachtig – to deliver to coffee shops in the municipalities of Breda and Tilburg. The original plan called for ten growers to supply many stores, but checks on the liabilities of some applicants and financing problems for selected growers contributed to the delays.

The Dutch government has set out a phased approach for the experiment. As a first step, starting this week, around 19 coffee shops in Breda and Tilburg will be allowed to offer both legally grown cannabis and unregulated products. This unique approach departs from the system in place for decades, in which the sale of cannabis was tolerated, but cultivation remained prohibited.

However, not all coffeeshops in Breda and Tilburg will be able to offer legal cannabis immediately and the offer will certainly be limited “both in terms of diversity and quantity”, as Cnnbs.nl reports. Last weekend, the Brabants Dagblad reported that Fyta, the only grower to have already produced multiple harvests, had 42 cannabis strains “ready.”

According to MJBizDaily which uses government sources, two other growers, who have not yet been identified, should start supplying coffee shops in Breda and Tilburg in early 2024.

A key aspect of this experiment is the introduction of a track and trace system aimed at ensuring unparalleled transparency in the cannabis supply chain. Legally produced cannabis products will be packaged with QR codes, allowing consumers to access detailed information about the crop, including where and when it was produced, as well as the company responsible.

An industry executive, speaking to MJBizDaily on condition of anonymity, underlined the importance of this experience for the European cannabis landscape: “It is one of the first times in Europe that we can show that a closed value chain, from cultivation to retail, can work.”

The executive stressed that the new system not only guarantees transparency, but also establishes a model in which the entire supply chain is accountable.

The experiment is planned to last four years, at the end of which a decision will be taken on its extension. During this period, participating coffee shops will undergo a transition period of approximately six weeks, after which they will exclusively sell legal cannabis products. This transition is expected to result in a paradigm shift in the Dutch cannabis industry and could serve as a model for other European countries considering similar reforms.