Pamela Brigger, a senior majoring in , is making significant strides in her research through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURE), with mentorship from David Kaplan, PhD, Professor in the Department of Geography and sponsorship by The Environmental Science and Design Research Institute (ESDRI).
Briggerβs project focuses on the environmental impacts of Ohioβs rapidly expanding cannabis and hemp industry, particularly concerning waste management. βThere will be an effect on the environment with any agricultural industry located on farmland or urbanized communities,β she explains. βMy research was to understand the waste generated by this industry along with sustainable practices that can benefit the evolution of the cannabis industry as well as nurture the communities surrounding them.β
Throughout her research, Brigger discovered that many cannabis companies are actively working to change negative perceptions. βThe most interesting thing I learned is that every avenue of the cannabis industry is trying to change the negative stigma by giving back to their community in some way,β she noted. βFor example, the hemp farmer uses her harvests for topical care and pain relief. Cannabis cultivation companies are consistently donating to charities, contributing to fundraisers, and assisting with community gardens and environmental initiative programs.β
Brigger faced challenges in engaging with industry stakeholders. βThe greatest challenge I had to overcome was the shortage of willingness from the cannabis and hemp industry to talk about their farming,β she explained. βI reached out to over 100 cannabis companies throughout the country with email inquiries with minimal to no response.β Ultimately, she leveraged her LinkedIn network to connect with local businesses, leading to valuable insights.
Reflecting on the support from ESDRI, she said, βI spoke to the ESDRI team about the intentions of my research, and everyone seemed interested and supported my ideas. It reassured me that my exploration is intriguing because it asks the question, βWhere does the waste go?ββ
Briggerβs work highlights the importance of sustainable practices in an evolving industry and underscores the potential for cannabis businesses to lead in environmental stewardship.
WRITTEN BY: Katherine McNamara Manning, PhD