Cannabis Odor Control Laws: What Cultivators Need to Know
Odors from cannabis cultivation facilities are difficult to measure and even more difficult to control; unlike with other air quality concerns like humidity and temperature, there’s no numerical readout and cultivators can’t simply turn on a dehumidifier or adjust the thermostat to address excessive odor levels. However, despite the challenges, cannabis odor compliance is essential for any successful cultivation facility.
This blog explores critical information about cannabis cultivation odor control, regulations, and solutions.
An Introduction to Odor Control Requirements for Cannabis Cultivators
Anyone who has spent time around the plant knows that cannabis is incredibly fragrant. This signature scent is due to aromatic compounds called terpenes and is present during flowering, harvest, processing, and storage.
Strong-smelling cannabis is excellent for producers; consumers prize aromatic flower for its flavor and effects. Cultivators who grow strongly-scented cannabis typically earn more profits and prestige.
However, there are drawbacks to the scent of cannabis. Odor regulations — and the accompanying fines — can cause serious problems for cultivators.
Why Cannabis Odor Control Matters: Legal and Environmental Considerations
Cannabis odor control is a matter of legal, social, and environmental responsibility for cultivation operations of every size.
Like most other
cannabis laws, odor regulations for cultivation and processing facilities vary widely by location. Though some states and cities have no cannabis odor regulations, many areas, especially those with a higher concentration of cannabis businesses, have introduced laws limiting odors from cannabis cultivation and processing facilities. Failure to comply with odor regulation laws can result in fines or operational disruptions if violations are ongoing or new odor control systems must be installed. Cannabis cultivators and grow facility managers should stay current on local regulations to ensure compliant operations.
Beyond regulations, cannabis odor control is essential for facilities that want to be good neighbors and positive members of the community. As a people-focused industry, companies in the cannabis sector need to be aware of how their operations affect those around them.
Finally, cannabis odor control is a matter of environmental responsibility. High concentrations of
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), like those released by cannabis plants and some post-harvest processing procedures, can interact with other compounds in the air and cause
increased ozone levels. Cannabis odor control, therefore, also falls into the categories of air quality management and sustainability.
The Role of Technology in Cannabis Smell Removal and Compliance
As mentioned, consumers typically prefer pungent cannabis as it is a marker of quality and an indicator of strain and effects. Because aroma is such an essential aspect of the cannabis consumption experience, cultivators must find solutions that preserve the delicate terpenes in their products while simultaneously controlling odors.
Innovative air quality control technology is the key to fragrant cannabis and cultivation facility compliance.
Indoor Air Quality Solutions for Cannabis Odor Control
Cultivators can take many different approaches to reducing cannabis odor in their indoor grow facilities.
Ventilation in Cannabis Cultivation Facilities
Neighboring buildings and communities aren’t the only ones affected by cannabis odors. No matter how passionate employees are about their jobs, the scent of cannabis can become overwhelming for on-site cultivators. Adequate ventilation will help keep them safe and comfortable, and increased airflow can help to keep plants healthy, too.
However, since ventilation alone simply reroutes odiferous air, it’s not an ideal solution for cultivation facilities concerned about odor control laws.
Cannabis Air Filtration
Air filters are one of the most tried-and-true methods to reduce cannabis odors from indoor cultivation operations. Air filtration can reduce smells and help to cut down on particulates in the air, which is especially important in cannabis processing facilities.
Despite its widespread use, air filtration isn’t the most effective way to combat cannabis odors anymore. It can also create excess waste, especially for larger facilities, since filters must be replaced relatively often.
Cannabis Air Sanitization
Air sanitizers represent the next step in cannabis odor control technology. These devices effectively neutralize odor-causing molecules in the air. Additionally, cannabis cultivation air sanitizers can help keep plants and workers healthier by neutralizing airborne pathogens and maintaining cleaner facilities.
The Power of Chlorine Dioxide Smell Removal for Commercial Cannabis Cultivation
Chorus is pioneering cannabis odor control technology with their next-gen device Chorus Gro™. This innovative and easy-to-install device utilizes the proven power of chlorine dioxide to help reduce odors in cannabis cultivation facilities. By monitoring air quality and releasing low levels of gentle chlorine dioxide, Chorus Gro™ neutralizes odor-causing bacteria to help you create a compliant, responsible cannabis cultivation operation.
For more information about our products, including how to get Chorus Gro™ in your cultivation facility,
contact Chorus today. We look forward to helping you comply with local odor control regulations and increase profits.
