Not all surprises are good, especially if you’re a commercial real estate company.
Since the legalization of cannabis in California, several businesses have prospered. However, not all of these businesses have taken a legal route and have instead tried to capitalize on the demand by operating an illegal cannabis grow facility.
As a commercial real estate company or property owner, you may be an unknowing victim. Yet even if law enforcement shuts down the illegal cannabis grow facility, and the property you manage becomes available to lease to a legitimate company, the nightmare may not be over.
Chances are that if law enforcement abruptly shuts down an illegal cannabis grow facility, there is waste left behind that you’re now tasked with disposing of. In California, many types of cannabis waste must be properly disposed of according to special regulations.
In other words, you can’t simply carry the cannabis waste out back and dispose of it in a trash bin. Doing so will put you in the same company as those who violated the law on your property.
So what should you do if you need cannabis waste disposal, and need it quickly? Working with a specialized cannabis waste disposal company can streamline the process and put your mind at ease so that you can move on with your business.
Cannabis Waste Disposal Services
Depending on the cannabis or marijuana waste left behind on your property, you may require different disposal services. Every cannabis nursery, distributor, dispensary, manufacturer and cultivator produces different types and different quantities of cannabis waste.
Some of the waste you may need to dispose of includes:
- Plant material (stems, leaves, roots)
- Contaminated soil
- Unsellable cannabis products
- Extraction byproducts
- Packaging waste
- Chemical waste (fertilizers, pesticides)
- Expired or unused inventory
- Edible and infused product waste
- Items contaminated with THC (gloves, tools, containers)
You may also encounter other items that require specialized disposal, such as electronic waste such as computers, weighing devices and appliances. Under California law, many types of e-waste are considered hazardous and require specialized hazardous waste disposal.
Why Specialized Services Are Needed
Cannabis waste is treated differently than other types of commercial waste due to strict regulations designed to ensure safety, security and environmental responsibility. Unlike other types of commercial waste, cannabis waste must be handled following specific protocols that include:
- Separation of Cannabis Waste: All cannabis-related waste must be separated from regular waste streams to prevent contamination and ensure proper disposal.
- Rendering THC-Contaminated Waste Unusable: Any waste that has come into contact with THC, such as gloves, tools and containers, must be rendered unusable before disposal. This often involves processes like shredding or mixing with other materials to make the waste non-recoverable.
- Secure Handling and Storage: Cannabis waste must be stored and transported securely to prevent unauthorized access or diversion. This often means using locked containers and ensuring only authorized personnel handle the waste.
- Compliance with California Track and Trace: The California Track and Trace system requires meticulous documentation of cannabis waste from its creation to its final disposal. This tracking ensures transparency and regulatory compliance throughout the disposal process.
By working with a specialized cannabis waste disposal company, property owners and businesses can streamline the waste management process, ensuring safe and legal disposal of all cannabis-related waste.
Other Services You May Need
As a real estate company, you may come across situations where either you or the companies leasing your properties need other types of cannabis waste solutions.
For example, in California, all cannabis products have to undergo rigorous testing before retail sales. If a product fails testing or undergoes a recall, it must be properly disposed of through destruction. Recalled or failed cannabis destruction services can help a business navigate this process.
A business may also require other waste solutions like wastewater disposal services, universal waste disposal or hazardous waste disposal.
If a previous tenant left behind any hazardous materials or wastewater, it’s illegal to simply throw these items away or dump the wastewater down the drain. Wastewater often contains nutrients, pesticides and other contaminants, making the waste water treatment process and proper disposal important for environmental sustainability.
How To Find A Cannabis Disposal Company
Discovering left-behind cannabis waste at your commercial property can be a shock, and one that you want remedied right away. Partnering with the right cannabis disposal company can help make the process less painful.
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a cannabis disposal company:
- Compliance with Regulations: Ensure the company is well-versed in state and local regulations for cannabis waste disposal. They should follow all guidelines for separating, securing and rendering waste unusable, as well as comply with the California Track and Trace system.
- Certifications and Licenses: Verify that the company holds the necessary certifications and licenses to handle and dispose of cannabis waste. This ensures that it meets the regulatory requirements and industry standards.
- Experience and Expertise: Look for a company with extensive experience in cannabis waste disposal. Their expertise will ensure that they can manage various types of cannabis waste, including plant material, contaminated soil and THC-laden items.
- Secure and Safe Handling: The company should have robust protocols for the secure handling and storage of cannabis waste. This includes using locked containers and having secure transportation methods to prevent unauthorized access.
- Reputation and Reviews: Research the company’s reputation by reading reviews and testimonials from other cannabis businesses. A reputable company will have positive feedback and a proven track record of reliable service.
- Transparent Processes: A good cannabis disposal company will offer transparency in its processes, including clear documentation and reporting. This ensures you can track your waste from its origin to its final disposal.
- Environmentally Responsible Practices: Choose a company that employs environmentally-friendly disposal methods. This may include recycling when possible and following sustainable practices to minimize the environmental impact.
- Customer Service: Strong customer service is essential. The company should be responsive, willing to answer your questions and provide timely services tailored to your specific needs.
By considering these factors, you can find a cannabis disposal company that ensures the waste you discovered on your property is handled in compliance with all regulations, protecting your business from potential legal issues and contributing to a safer and more sustainable industry.
