Cultivating your own cannabis is a right that comes with responsibilities to your neighbors, your community, and to the plant itself. We put together this code of ethics as a set of guidelines for responsible personal cultivation. It is by no means final and we welcome any feedback.
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Homegrow Code of Ethics
Compliance with Laws and Regulations: I will adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines regarding the cultivation of cannabis in New York, including, but not limited to, obtaining necessary permits or certifications.
Responsible Use and Distribution: I will cultivate cannabis for personal use only and will not distribute it to individuals under the legal age or in violation of state laws. I will not use home cultivation as a cover for unlicensed commercial cultivation.
Environmental Stewardship: I will strive to minimize my environmental impact by using sustainable cultivation practices, conserving water and energy, and properly disposing of waste and byproducts.
Pollen: I will not inadvertently or intentionally release pollen into the environment. I will not allow male plants to grow in an uncontrolled manner and will be aware of commercial grow facilities within 2 miles of my cultivation location.
Safety and Security: I will take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of my cultivation space, including securing cannabis products away from children and pets, and preventing unauthorized access to my plants.
Community Respect: I will be mindful of my neighbors and community members, and will take steps to mitigate any potential nuisances, including odor, associated with cannabis cultivation.
Education and Awareness: I will continuously educate myself about responsible cannabis cultivation practices, and will not share cannabis without being aware of proper dosing, potential health risks, and harm reduction strategies.
Legal and Ethical Consumption: I will consume cannabis responsibly and in moderation, avoiding driving or operating machinery while intoxicated, and respecting the rights of non-users.
Support for Equity and Inclusion: I will support efforts to promote equity and inclusion within the cannabis industry, including advocating for policies that address historical injustices and provide opportunities for marginalized communities.
Pest Management: I will use the least invasive means for responsible pest management.
Transparent Communication: I will be transparent about my cannabis cultivation activities with family members, housemates, and others who may be affected, and will address any concerns or conflicts in a respectful and open manner.
Continuous Improvement: I will continuously evaluate and improve my cultivation practices to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of myself, my household, and my community.
By following these ethical guidelines, individuals can cultivate cannabis at home responsibly and contribute positively to their communities while respecting legal boundaries and environmental considerations.