GHG emissions of indoor cannabis production in the U.S., by source & location

Lots of energy is needed to grow cannabis indoors in the United States, which in turn produces greenhouse gas emissions. Cannabis plants need the right temperature and humidity to grow in good quality, meaning energy-intensive heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is required. These HVAC systems are the main source of indoor cannabis cultivation greenhouse gas emissions, followed by high intensity grow lights. Emissions vary across the United States depending on location due to differing climates, as well as available energy sources. HVAC emissions in Anchorage, AK average 3,000 kilograms of CO2 equivalent per kilogram of dried cannabis flower, whilst in Seattle, WA this figure is 1,000 kilograms of CO2 equivalent.