The Global Cannabis Partnership A Platform for Responsibility By Kim Wilson, Executive Director, Global Cannabis Partnership
In less than a month, Canada will become the first G7 country to legalize and regulate recreational cannabis from production to consumption. It’s an exciting time in the cannabis industry nationally and across the globe as more jurisdictions follow the path Canada is forging. But despite these noble efforts, we know that a regulated recreational model will present challenges and risks to those involved, from the private sector and government agencies to regulators and interest groups. There will be pressure from stakeholder groups, much like in the alcohol, tobacco and gaming industries, to eliminate or at the very least best manage the negative social impacts. That’s why Revolution Strategy founded the Global Cannabis Partnership — to develop worldwide corporate social responsibility standards in the cannabis industry. Now is the time. Leveraging Best Practices The Global Cannabis Partnership (GCP) is composed of government agencies, national associations, licensed producers and industry partners. Its objectives are to set the standard for responsibility for all those who play a role in the recreational cannabis supply chain through responsible practices; align and leverage common principles and practices across diverse jurisdictions; help partners mitigate negative impacts and leverage best practices from within and outside the industry; and enhance social licence to operate, with a view to minimizing harm. To kick-start our efforts, we secured 16 founding members who are leaders in their respective fields and who want to help shape social responsibility in the cannabis industry. Announced at the World Cannabis Congress last June, they include: Cannabis NB, Canopy Growth Corporation, Aphria Inc., the Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd., GreenStar Brands, High Park
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