Cannabis and Aqueous Ozone
Over the past decade, cannabis production has become a major industry in the United States. We’ve relearned the many benefits of cannabis ranging from medical to industrial use. Cannabis growers know that the quality of their product corresponds with the cleanliness of their grow facilities. Controlling pests, mold, viruses, and bacteria is a constant concern for growers. In response, many turn to hash sanitizers and pesticides to protect their plants.
Persistence of Pesticides
While chemical solutions keep pests at bay, overuse of pesticides has been an issue in the cannabis industry—especially when it comes to human consumption. Chemical based pesticides and sanitizers persist in the final product. In fact, concerning data shows that customers are being exposed to high levels of toxic chemicals through cannabis smoke and other mediums. According to a study published in the Journal, Frontiers of Pharmacology, states, “legal cannabis products in Washington State are presented with the observation of an 84.6% contamination rate including potentially neurotoxic and carcinogenic agents.1” To avoid exposing customers, some growers forego treatment entirely, but this is also less than ideal since it puts their crop at high risk.
Aqueous Ozone Can Help
Naturally, the question becomes: how can cannabis growers protect both their crops and customers? This is where aqueous ozone comes in. Over the years, aqueous ozone has become a more widely adopted alternative to chemical pesticides in the agricultural industry. Aqueous ozone (AO) is created using a generator that infuses a small amount of ozone into water. AO can then be applied to plants, soil, and the surrounding environment. AO is a powerful sanitizer, anti-fungal, and anti-pest agent that helps manage many pests, molds, bacteria, and viruses present in nurseries, greenhouses, and grow rooms. Within minutes of use, AO safely degrades back into water and oxygen, leaving no residue or harmful by products.
Studies have shown that use of AO in various concentrations does no harm to plants while simultaneously reducing unwanted pathogens in the soil and surrounding area.2 This shouldn’t be surprising. After all, natural rainwater often contains ozone created by lighting. By controlling the concentration and application of AO, growers can protect their plants without worrying about exposing their customers and employees to harsh pesticides.
Even better, AO doesn’t have to be limited to plants. AO is frequently used as a cleaner, sanitizer, and deodorizer for routine cleaning. Most facilities have offices, bathrooms, and other spaces that need to be cleaned. AO’s versatility is one of its greatest features as it allows businesses to reduce the number of chemical agents they need to purchase and store. This saves money while also reducing the exposure to harsh chemicals. AO is truly an all-in-one solution.Contact Green Science Solutions today to learn how you can incorporate an AO system into your process!
- Ethan B. Russo (2016) Current Therapeutic Cannabis Controversies and Clinical Trial Design Issues, Frontier in Pharmacology, DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00309
- Thomas Grham, Ping Zhang, & Michael Dixon (2011) Aqueous ozone in the root zone: Friend or foe?, Journal of Horiculture and Forestry, ISSN: 2006-9782
