The cannabis industry is uniquely connected to these issues because of the historical criminalization and propaganda-driven stigma surrounding the plant, which has disproportionately affected underprivileged populations.
He postulated that hemp is the only annually renewable natural resource capable of providing the majority of the world’s paper, textile, transportation, and energy needs while reducing pollution, rebuilding the soil, and cleaning the atmosphere.
Now, with the Biden Administration’s policies driving ESG principles forward and the investment world maniacally focused on them, they’re no longer optional for the cannabis industry, but guiding tenets.
Because marijuana is not yet legal in the United States, and because hemp derivatives are not yet regulated by the FDA, investor pools available to the cannabis industry are fairly nuanced and often limited.
I was first exposed to the great importance of ESG investing and principles as they relate to cannabis when invited to speak at an event in New York in 2018.
But the “star” of the discussion was the Co-Founder and CEO of the People’s Dispensary, Christine De La Rosa — the walking, talking, and breathing epitome of ESG in practice.
All of this was reinforced as I listened to a variety of non-cannabis-related programs — every venture now had an element of ESG.
In the cannabis industry, much focus has been placed on social impact issues, social justice regarding government programs, and policy reforms. One organization involved in this movement is the “Last Prisoner Project,” of which I am a proud supporter.
The organization was created to connect cannabis businesses to communities, to highlight the good the sector is doing, and to put into action purpose-driven partnerships to support equity and justice, positive community impact, and environmental sustainability.
The cannabis industry has taken this to an international level with the movement known as “Regennabis.” Its founders, Patrick McCartan and Geoff Trotter bring industry and global business expertise to the table in a manner that’s attracted a great deal of attention and momentum.
As Steve DeAngelo likes to say, “Support the companies that support our communities.” Don’t get caught in slow motion as others dash to the door of innovation.
Alan Brochstein’s 420 Investor is the go-to community for investors to learn, explore, and profit from the marijuana companies.
are not responsible for each other’s services and products.