Air Quality Compliance and Terpenes
In the world of legal cannabis, odor control frequently takes center stage in discussions concerning air quality. These odors are the result of various cannabinoids and terpenes working synergistically to provide medicinal benefits and recreational experiences for associated consumers.
The aromatic compounds responsible for the distinctive scents and experiences in cannabis are called terpenes. They are also part of a class of compounds known chemically as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are precursors to Ozone and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), a specific type of air pollution. To combat the effects of GHGs on the environment, VOCs are regulated in industry by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Understanding air compliance terms and adhering to their regulation is crucial for cannabis operators and processors to reduce operational liability and maintain regulatory compliance.
States such as Michigan, Washington, California, and Colorado, have promulgated regulations and guidance specifically applicable to cannabis processors and operators concerning VOCs and air quality. However, even in states where cannabis is not explicitly mentioned in codified environmental regulation, responsibility for adherence remains paramount for common-law operational good standing.
If you operate an outdoor cannabis operation, or vent cultivation rooms out into the environment, understanding National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), operational Potential To Emit (PTE), and applicable State Implementation Plans (SIP) is a great way to gauge your environmental liability and responsibility within your operational jurisdiction. Additionally, the consultants at Delta possess extensive experience in navigating, permitting, and auditing environmental regulations. Contact Delta Compliance for consultation or auditing services to assess your programs’ EPA compliance and associated liabilities.
Talya Mayfield is the CEO and Principal Consultant for Delta Compliance Consulting. Talya has a B.S. in Biology, an M.S. in Industrial Engineering Management, and a Certificate in Lean Six Sigma. She spent 8 years in cement manufacturing and hazardous waste working on a range of environmental compliance requirements, from improving safety and employee exposure to hazardous material management and disposal permitting. She has now merged this expertise with her love of all things cannabis, and launched Delta Compliance Consulting to help cannabis operators run safe, compliant and successful facilities. Delta Compliance consultants are certified in Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management, as well as OSHA-30. Contact us and let the certified experts assist you with all your compliance and risk management needs.