Hazardous Waste Management in Missouri’s Cannabis Industry

Hazardous Waste Management

Understanding hazardous waste is an essential part of cannabis waste management.

Hazardous waste generators are cannabis operators who produce hazardous waste. In Missouri, they are subject to regulations set in place by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MO DNR). Violating these regulations affects the environment, can result in expensive fines, and, in some cases, result in the suspension of a facility’s cannabis license.

Monarch Waste Co.’s government-compliant cannabis waste management services efficiently remove all hazardous and non-hazardous cannabis waste from facilities, ensuring compliance with Missouri’s regulations.

  • Cannabis waste from marijuana and marijuana byproducts, like medical marijuana flowers, trim, and solid plant material, are not considered hazardous unless they’ve been treated or contaminated with a hazardous waste constituent.

    Hazardous waste is any substance that poses a threat to human health or the environment. In the cannabis industry, this includes the following:

    • Chemical fertilizers and pesticides used in cultivation

    • Solvents and other chemicals used in extraction processes

    • Contaminated soil or plant material

    • Packaging materials containing harmful chemicals or metals

    • Biomass that has been off-gassed improperly or not at all

  • Cannabis extracts are concentrated forms of the plant’s essential compounds, including terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Each cannabis extraction method, whether solvent or solventless, has its unique advantages and challenges.

    Solvents are chemical agents, commonly butane, ethanol, or propane, used in cannabis extraction to break down the plant material and isolate its compounds. Solventless extraction is a cleaner and more environmentally friendly option that relies on mechanical processes like cold water, dry shifting, or rosin pressing.

    By recognizing the distinctions between solvent and solventless extraction, you can make informed decisions that align with your production goals.

    Learn more.

  • Discover what partnering with Monarch Waste Co. can do for your manufacturing or testing facility. Our experts:

    • Know the federal, state, and local regulations

    • Implement safe handling practices for hazardous materials

    • Separate the types of waste to prevent cross-contamination

    • Store hazardous waste in appropriate containers and with proper labeling

    • Ensure plant waste treated with hazardous waste is properly off-gassed before being rendered unusable

    • Maintain detailed records of all waste generation, handling, and disposal activities

  • Monarch Waste Co. provides compliant, convenient, affordable, and sustainable waste management solutions, all customized to fit your needs. Contact us for a free quote, request a pick-up, or have timely and helpful responses to your inquiries.

    Contact us.