Cannabis legalization and environmental health
Angela Eykelbosh, PhD
The BCCDC/NCCEH Environmental Health Seminar Series provides an opportunity for learning and knowledge exchange on a variety of environmental health topics. The seminars can be attended in-person or online.
Speaker: Angela Eykelbosh, Environmental Health & Knowledge Translation Scientist, NCCEH/BCCDC
Abstract: Legalization of cannabis in 2018 will bring many challenges for public health professionals in Canada, ranging from the difficulties of establishing regulatory frameworks in a short period to the unknown consequences of widespread availability of this psychoactive substance. However, beyond the effects of the drug itself, cannabis cultivation (whether commercially or at home) brings with it certain environmental health (EH) risks that can be mitigated through public education. This webinar will summarize concerns around specific EH risks (pest control products, chemical and biological contaminants, household mould and humidity control, and fire and electrical hazards), as well as frame some of the key considerations for risk communication around cannabis cultivation.
The views and opinions expressed by invited webinar presenters do not necessarily reflect those of the NCCEH and our funder, the Public Health Agency of Canada.