Edition 23: Company of the month - Jushi Holdings by cannabisworldjournals

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Cannabis World Journals Editorial and Journalistic Team Cannabis World Journals is a bi-weekly publication that discusses the latest trends in the medical cannabis industry. Content Management: Alibert Flores Anne Graham Escobar Graphic Design and Conceptualization: Katerin Osuna Robles Jannina Mejía Díaz Juliana Cuervo Tibambre Research, Journalistic and Editorial Team: CannaGrow: Daniela Montaña and William González CannaCountry: Sandra Loaiza CannaLaw: Anne Marie Graham, Alibert Flores, and Caterina Lomoro CannaTrade: Jennifer Simbaña, Lorena Díaz, Verónica Hernández, and Rosangel Andrades CannaMed: Jennifer Salguero CannaGraphics: Alibert Flores Translation: English: Nicole Gómez, Verónica Hernández, and Andrés Sawyer Arabic: Menna Ghazal and Oraib Albashiti Portuguese: Marcia Lorenzen and Lorena Díaz Italian: Caterina Lomoro and Karen Bermúdez Contributors to this Edition: Expo Cáñamo Argentina 2022 Circulo de Mujeres Cannábicas Paco Moreno 1320.mx Alpha Academy of Science Subscribe at cannabisworldjournals.com. Info@cannabisworldjournals.com Edition 23

EDITORIAL - Cannabis: Eden's Plant Pg. 4

OP-ED COLUMN: - Cannabis' Influence Over Time Pg. 5

CANNAGRAPHICS: - Expo Cáñamo Argentina 2022 Pg. 6 - Paco Moreno @1320.mx Pg. 6 - Alpha Academy of Science Pg. 6

CANNAGROW - Environmental Equilibrium, a Contribution from the Cannabis Industry to the World Pg. 7

9 Our Magazines CannaMed and CannaLaw, each dedicated to the therapeutic area and the legal regulation areas of the cannabis industry, have decided to join forces and offer a new and more complete bi-weekly magazine: Cannabis World Journals. CannaMed and CannaLaw are now sections of Cannabis World Journals. Along with them, we have created two new sections to offer a global look at the plant's market: we are talking about CannaTrade and CannaGrow. CannaTrade's objective is to reveal the rhythm of the businesses established around cannabis. Lastly, CannaGrow is a section dedicated to the botany and cultivation of the cannabis plant. Cannabis World Journals is the most comprehensive cannabis magazine for discerning readers like you. Without further ado, a warm welcome to you.

IN THE EXPERT'S ROOM

- Puro NZ Pg. 9

CANNACOUNTRY: - Switzerland Pg. 16

CANNALAW: - Good News: NGOs in Argentina Will Be Allowed to Cultivate Cannabis Pg. 18 - In Italy, CSR Is How Cannabis Companies Care for the Environment Pg. 20

COMPANY OF THE MONTH - Jushi Holdings. Pg. 23

CANNATRADE - Hemp as an Alternative to Fossil Fuels Pg. 29 - Hemp's Profitability and Opportunities Pg. 31 - The Path to a Sustainable Cannabis Industry Pág 34 - Profitability of Hemp Cultivation and its Derivatives Pg. 37

CANNAMED - Hemp Seeds Medicinal Properties Pg. 40 - Hemp's Health and Wellness Benefits Pg. 43

EDITORIAL

Cannabis: Eden's Plant When we think of cannabis, many concepts come to mind about what it means. Some define it as medicine, others as a great investment opportunity, others as advancement, others as freedom, and some consider it the plant of life. After all, the world is full of different perspectives, and we all know that diversity is where the flavor is. From ancient China or majestic Egypt to the present, cannabis has had great prominence. The welfare that it has brought to all who have had the opportunity to be in contact with it. The various religious rituals including the plant, or those who used it for medicine, are proof of this. In short, cannabis has been part of us as the sun every morning.

Even though, unfortunately, it has been labeled as something harmful in recent decades, the voices in favor of life through cannabis are becoming louder and louder. More evidence confirms that it is not another "plant" coming to stomp and leave an indelible mark.

Where do we leave the enormous efforts of millions of activists, such as Nikki Lawley or Steve DeAngelo, to legalize cannabis so that patients can receive CBD treatment? Or free those unjustly incarcerated due to collective ignorance? Where do we leave the deputies who fight tirelessly in court to hear the big YES from the judge? Or a mother's effort to defy unjust and retrograde laws so that their children have the right to health through cannabis? When will the plant become recognized worldwide as what it is? Too many questions come to my mind. Despite all these doubts, I can say, with certainty, that all these people have something in common: hope. Hope that, sooner than later, the veil of ignorance and lack of knowledge will fall, and cannabis will no longer be just another plant but what it truly is: Eden’s plant..

Alibert Flores Editorial Member Cannabis World Journals

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OP-ED COLUMN

Cannabis Influence over Time Marijuana, now better known as Cannabis by its scientific name, has been among civilizations in different ways for hundreds of years. Now, thanks to its legalization and decriminalization in many countries, it reaches patients, sympathizers, transformation laboratories, and the news, rumors of encouraging its adult-use as an option to finally get out of the illegality that gives bad use to the medicinal plant. It is interesting to discuss the relationship between cannabis and the environment. Since the latter refers to the notion of everything that surrounds us, living and inert beings, although undoubtedly, the plant has been on earth longer than humans, and there is still much to discover about it. Researches support the plant's capacity for bioremediation of contaminated soils and mining practices. They stand by its power to repair the mammals' endocannabinoid system. A multiplicity of derivatives, fibers, and products is obtained from its genetics. Its flowers and oil are among the most used to alleviate and control pathologies such as cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, and many more diseases

Its medicinal and industrial use also deserves a balanced look. It is essential to understand that although Cannabis brings many benefits, it is necessary to continue its liberation from the illegal market, something considerably affecting the environment, and the intensive use of agrochemicals, in countries such as Colombia, where is legal for medicinal use. Until 4 years ago, there were still fumigations with glyphosate in territories of crops such as coca and cannabis. This practice harms the work of those promoting agriculture for food sovereignty. The plant is still not accessible to all users, and the lack of decriminalization of adult-use keeps alive environments and sectors where the plant represents pollution, impoverishment, crime, and distribution from bad origins to markets as the only option to access the plant's benefits.

Círculo de Mujeres Cannábicas (Cannabis Women's Circle)

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CannaGraphics

Paco Moreno @1320mx @1320mx's mission is to communicate the conscious potential of systemic solutions told through stories, inspiring examples from all over the world where cannabis shows that new ways are possible. The plant is the systemic possibility that finds in the seed all the potential for a conscious expansion for the natural, balanced, and sustained development that the times demand.

Expo Cáñamo Argentina 2022 (Expo Hemp Argentina 2022)

It is a unique and unprecedented event in Latin America that will bring together leading companies and specialists in the industrial hemp sector, from the agronomic cultivation of hemp, its inputs, and machinery, to the industrial transformation, uses, and applications of hemp and its derivatives. The event will be a meeting point for rural producers, industrialists, machinery suppliers, inputs, entrepreneurs, and public and private institutions from Argentina and the world. The forum will showcase expert speakers talking about industrial hemp's various benefits and possibilities from their different perspectives. There will be a business round, or B2B, as the closing activity reserved for potential investors and entrepreneurs. The event will take place on September 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, and is organized and presented by Proyecto Cáñamo, Latinoamericanna S.A., and Genética La Maga S.A.

Accordingly, with the permaculture model, the plant's transversality coincides with all the UN's millennium objectives for new development: integral health, new technologies, environmental rescue, inclusive social development, sustainable economy, and cultural expressions. They are axes where cannabis gives us directly the possibility of being the material that provides solutions for each of the pillars for the new planetary human development.

Venue: premises of the dry port of the Province of San Luis, Agrozal S.A.P.P.E.M., located in the city of Villa Mercedes, San Luis (Argentina). (Ruta 7 Km 701, Autopista de las Serranías Puntanas).

Currently, the Alpha Academy of Science, and the Technological University of Bolivar, have made available the II edition of the diploma that will take entrepreneurs to the next level. This educational program is about the innovation and entrepreneurship of cannabis, focused on providing the student with different market strategies and effective marketing, to take their product or service to various geographical areas and achieve success in the industry. This program starts on May 27th and has an intensity of 100 hours. 6

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CannaGrow

Environmental Equilibrium,

a Contribution from the

Cannabis Industry to the World

According to proponents, hemp or cannabis could be the solution to a large majority of environmental problems of agriculture

Arctic glaciers are melting faster than expected; sea levels are rising, and so is the temperature. To make matters worse, some countries are squandering their budget to reduce their carbon footprint, thus facing socio-economic conflicts. However, meteorologists and climate scientists also complain that global plans will not be enough to achieve climate stability goals by 2030. Despite all the promises, the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere continues to rise, as actions to contribute are not being timely enough, according to the Scientists For Future portal. According to the advocates of new alternatives that reduce the impact of crops on environmental pollution, hemp or cannabis could be the solution to most of the ecological problems of agriculture. It is not only about the legalization of the plant for adult use, which is a widely debated topic, but also about its use for industrial purposes due to the ease with which it can be cultivated and the versatility of its different uses.

Cannabis Considerations for the Environment Hemp would considerably reduce deforestation, the expansion of the agricultural frontier, and the use of polluting insecticides. Cannabis, or hemp, is the plant that could contribute to the substitution of paper, which has represented a source of environmental pollution that causes various climate problems and the preservation of biodiversity. The wood industry, from which paper derives, is a business that intensively uses multiple means of transportation, leaving a high carbon footprint and generating large quantities of air and water pollutants. It is one of the agricultural industrial activities emitting the most greenhouse gases, around 3.3 kilograms of CO2 equivalent for each kilogram of paper produced. Adding to these problems, using chlorine to bleach cellulose is highly harmful to human health and water sources.

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CannaGrow

Hemp is a much more suitable plant for paper production because of its high cellulose content. Entrepreneurs of this generation need to be informed and act by the rules of environmental sustainability for the future, such as using cannabis fiber for manufacturing many items made from wood. While a tree takes 16 to 20 years to be ready for use, hemp takes only six months. Hemp's modern uses range from paper manufacturing to constructing parts for building houses, and even fuel since biodiesel can be derived from hemp seed oil.

Many countries have developed public policies to preserve their forests and have promoted effective campaigns for their rational and sustainable exploitation; even so, the problem of deforestation is still severe. According to the "Greenpeace" movement, around 15 billion trees are lost every year. If this continues, in 300 years, the planet's forests will have completely disappeared.

Sustainable Cannabis Contributions to the Industry In this great effort to save the planet, a new player called to contribute to the substitution of plastic and turn the paper industry into an activity much more compatible with the environment appears. It is hemp, a variety of cannabis whose cultivation and commercialization offer a variety of environmental and industrial advantages. 8

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Currently, more than 90% of paper is made from cellulose, but it turns out that trees contain relatively little cellulose and require a complex process that deteriorates the environment to achieve a quality end product. Therefore, hemp is a more stable, reliable, economical, and cleaner alternative. Hemp is a much more appropriate plant for paper production due to its high cellulose content (up to 85% versus 30% for trees). Currently, more than 90% of paper is made from wood, and hemp is relegated to secondary applications, inexplicably wasting its great potential. That is why the rules of the game are changing in many countries, seeing a need for innovation in the use of natural resources in a more sustainable way, actions that simplify the negative impacts on the environment, promoting an "environmental balance" for new generations from the inclusion of hemp as a promising crop of the agricultural line.

PURO is New Zealand's largest grower of medical cannabis and one of the world’s accredited largescale organic growers. They focus on growing premium and pure medical cannabis – indoors and outdoors – and were named Cultivator of the Year at the 2021 Australian Cannabis Awards. PURO is the only organic medical cannabis producer in New Zealand or Australia and one of only a handful worldwide. Their premium cannabis products will be sold to pharmaceutical and extraction partners in New Zealand and overseas since they recently signed a five-year, multi-milliondollar supply agreement with Auckland-based Helius Therapeutics.

Tim Aldridge is PURO’s Managing Director. CWJ: We're very happy that you accepted the invitation for this interview. It's a really exciting thing what is going on in New Zealand. How did the idea for PURO NZ come about?

In the Expert’s Room

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: PURO came about in late 2018. I was fortunate to be introduced to Tom Forrest and Sank Macfarlane, and Tom was a global expert and cannabis agronomy and he was looking to establish a large medical cannabis facility in New Zealand. Tom identified pure rice cultivation sites as ideal locations for organic production. Since then, they were looking to diversify their stunning farm in Kēkerengū, which they have owned for five generations. Tom's approach was well-received by the McFarlane family, it’s aligned closely with their environmental outlook, and my role in all of that was to help develop and lead the business. And it all fell into place from there. CWJ: That sounds great. What do you think is the impact that medical cannabis legalization has had in New Zealand at this time?

Interview with PURO NZ

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: Look, it's still early days. The legislation was enacted just a little under two years ago and we're starting to see some real

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progress now. As a pioneer in the industry, PURO has navigated through a complex number of rules and regulations which, of course, there have been some challenges. But, ultimately led to the emergence of a really critical and highly professional network of cannabis companies here in New Zealand. We're also super excited to see New Zealandgrown cannabis available to both New Zealanders and also buyers around the world.

CWJ: You know, that brings me to the next question, which is the two developments that I saw regarding your company, the alliance with Helius and the organic certification. Was that something that you were striving for since the beginning?

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: Absolutely. We have always been organic in our hearts. The reason we have adopted organic protocols and have chosen to go organic is CWJ: From what I saw on your website, you because it’s the right thing to do. It's really have had really great success in a very coming from our land and our people, and short time and New Zealand has really that's what we're really passionate about. And opened up to the plant. This is really great then ultimately, we then applied for the because compared to other countries your accreditation, the certification. At the time we growth has been really exponential. So, didn't quite realize how unique it was to be how do you feel about that? How do you organic. There are obviously a lot of other feel about PURO and how it's developing growers out there who are certainly attempting currently within the cannabis industry? to adopt organic and sustainable practices. But, to achieve full organic accreditation is TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: We're moving at really unique and really special. We are the a fast pace. The New Zealand (cannabis) only cannabis company in New Zealand, or industry is reasonably new here and we're at Australia, that has got full organic the absolute forefront of that. The regulations accreditation. We understand we're one of the that were introduced here in New Zealand by few companies globally that are producing the government, they did that in quite a hurry pharmaceutical-grade cannabis, medical and they did that intentionally to get this cannabis, with organic accreditation. So that's industry up and running as fast as it could be really, really neat. The second aspect possible. It’s been a slightly slower start as far obviously is a very significant supply as understanding the regulations and getting to agreement that was announced with Helius market than we usually would have liked. But Therapeutics. ultimately, we've managed to achieve more in the last three years and we've seen it in the Helius is a very large manufacturer of cannabis last 12 months. medicines based in Auckland, New Zealand; PURO is the largest grower of medical cannabis in New Zealand. We have a Most of the cannabis companies sit in that region and were lucky with what we have been wonderful relationship with Helius, as we do able to achieve in the region in our entire with many other companies here in New lifespan. We are moving very, very fast, the Zealand. Helius have signed a very, very large New Zealand regulations are quite nimble in agreement to essentially acquire and purchase the sense that they allow us to operate quickly over 10 tons of overall organic cannabis and grow at a very significant scale. Certainly, flower, which they will then make into 100% last year was an enormous success, and this New Zealand grown, manufactured, branded year is truly when we commercialize and the medicine for New Zealanders and for global “rubber hits the road.” markets. It's a watershed agreement that puts New Zealand cannabis on the world map and both Helius and PURO are really, really pleased and proud of that agreement. 10 | EDITION Nº 23 | CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS

CWJ: You have worked really hard for your organic certification. For our readers that have not much knowledge about it, what is this organic certification? I know your alliance was a huge step toward the business of cannabis within New Zealand. How was the process? TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: There are a lot of companies out there globally that will use the word organic on their website or on their promotional marketing materials, which is obviously misleading, and clearly wrong, if they are not organic or certainly not organically certified and accredited. The big difference with PURO is we have gone through the formal process and accreditation. BioGro New Zealand, which is the largest and best-known organic certified and globally recognized for their accreditations, they have been working with PURO to essentially approve and fast track our organic status. That process kicked off about 18 months ago; it is typically a threeyear process with BioGro. Because we have had all of our three years of cultivation and keep all our records and all of our practices and protocols have been organic from the very, very outset. Likewise, the soil of the farm that we're growing has been following our farm sustainability plan for several years. There's been no synthetic chemicals or anything unfortunate applied to the land, so that allowed PURO to essentially fast track what was normally a three-year minimum process. We've achieved that in about 18 months, working with BioGro. It's very, very rigorous and it required an in-depth look at every system in process at PURO, all the way from germination to cultivation to drying and then packaging of our flower. A big part of that is what's known as a quality management system. PURO has a very

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advanced Quality Management System and all QA processes. All of our standard operating procedures have been written and developed by a very highly experienced team, which is led by Dr. Dottie Clower and Wendy Tillman. Their knowledge of science, regulatory pathways, and compliance systems has enabled PURO to fast track to getting the accreditation, and currently, we are being assessed for final GACP approval. Ultimately PURO will be both organic and GACP accredited. CWJ: Do you think that has impacted how quickly the company has grown in these two years? TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: We’ve always had sort of ambitions to be a larger, sort of global size, cultivator. New Zealand has got a very unique opportunity in a very unique climate that is well suited for the production of high-quality cannabis medicine. We have been able to fast-track the organic processes and rigor and compliance and so forth, which ties in really well with our entire company philosophy. There is GACP and also GMP. While we are not GMP, we are selling our flower material to GMP buyers who will then make them into medicines under a GMP license. We have to be fully compliant with the processes and the quality assurance systems and so forth. It has allowed us to fast-track and basically ensures that our cultivation is matched with compliance. Otherwise, you can grow the product but without the accreditation, you are unable to sell it.

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: We've had enormous support for our industry. In fact, the legal medical cannabis industry in New Zealand was supported throughout the entire country. The legislation that was brought in to introduce New Zealand's medical cannabis scheme was supported by all political parties and the government. In my three years at the helm of PURO, the only concern that we've had from our community are access and the barriers to accessing medical cannabis affordably. We find our community, our people, and all of New Zealand they're either convinced around medical cannabis or highly intrigued. And the support we’ve received from our community for setting up this industry here has been phenomenal and we just simply could not have had the success and the speed and the momentum that we've had if it wasn't for that support from our community. CWJ: You've become a big titan in the industry. And I think it's very exciting for our readers to know about that. You are in a key strategic place where you have access to various different cultures and various different continents. How has been your experience trading with your local markets? Not only New Zealand and Australia, of course, but the Asian market?

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: Firstly, a lot of global buyers are very, very intrigued and interested in the New Zealand cannabis industry and we support it and are represented by the New Zealand Government. NZTU, which is the New CWJ: How do you think the mentality has Zealand Trade Enterprise, and the New changed from the moment cannabis was Zealand Government's export arm, is legalized in New Zealand and currently supplying New Zealand’s cannabis globally. with all this growth that your company They are supporting our approach to has seen? communicating to global markets around the supply of cannabis flower either as a final product, which will be GMP which is 12

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ultimately from the likes of Helius and other manufacturers in New Zealand, or the finest flower that PURO will be producing and selling directly to global manufacturers. We have received an enormous response. Clearly, our relationship and close economic ties with Australia are very helpful for PURO and New Zealand. We consider Australia as an extension of that domestic market. Then globally there are a few countries, I guess, and regions that we are more focused on than others. Europe is a primary focus, primarily because of New Zealand's regulations, which are based around the European PHARMACOPOEIA standards or EU GMP. All flower that leaves this country has to be tested to that standard, which means that it's obviously one of the highest and if not the highest quality standard in the world. Everything we produce aligns with European standards. So that's obviously one focus for export markets. Asia is really key for us. Exporting flowers into Asia, in certain parts of Asia can be challenging, and it's challenging. The export of finished products like CBD oil and medicinal products is more likely the pathway into Asia, or into most countries in Asia. That partnership agreement with Helius and future partnership agreements we will be announcing with other manufacturers here in New Zealand and Australia will enable made-in-New Zealand products to be supplied to Asia. CWJ: That's amazing! I wanted to ask you a little bit about the production process because the whole area of New Zealand and Australia has been heavily impacted by climate change in recent years. How have you felt that has had an impact on the cannabis industry and on the growth process within the domestic market that you have? TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: Our sites were

chosen by Tom Forrest, who is a global expert in cannabis agronomy. At our outdoor site, which is in a little place called Kēkerengū, along the Corcoran Coast. South Marlborough is one of the driest parts of New Zealand and it was intentionally chosen because it's very sunny, it's got high sunshine hours, high UV. It also got a daily sea breeze and is located near the ocean. For us, it allows a natural reduction of the risk of pests and disease due to the salt spray and the breeze that comes through the air through the plants. Some parts of New Zealand, particularly the northern parts of New Zealand, have had some humidity issues with cultivation, any outdoor cultivation so PURO has not faced those challenges, but that doesn't mean we never will. The biggest issues with outdoor cultivation, particularly during the harvest time, in our region, are powdery, mildew, and botrytis, which are also quite problematic in the wine industry. Our cultivation strategy is focused solely around mitigating those risks, working around the airflow is really key. But every plant is monitored daily, or every second day, for any signs of disease or any signs of males. Because we're growing feminized plants and if any sign of any risk that plant is immediately removed, so that’s a huge part just along the lines, is laborintensive and focused on how cultivation methods have to be to ultimately produce a pharmaceutical standard.

CWJ: Have you involved genetic breeding in order to make the plants more resistant to that type of weather and type of mildew? TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: That's a big part of our business. They're essentially three pillars to our business model, our cultivation model. And these were formed by Tom Forrest in the very early days. We CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

have a large outdoor production facility primarily producing biomass as starting material for our medicines manufacturing process. The indoor facility is primarily focused on producing prescription flowers, premium flowers that are a finished product. And then the third pillar of our cultivation model is our research and breeding facility. The facility is built and now fully operational, its purpose is to develop unique cultivars and genetics that are optimal for New Zealand's unique climate so that process is continuing, and most of the seeds with which we have commenced our commercial products have come from other breeding programs across the globe. Tom is well connected to the universities and most of the local or certainly leading breeders in America, Europe, and in Australia. We've taken that knowledge and brought it in. We are also utilizing and playing around with some of New Zealand's local genetics, which is pretty powerful and impressive too. And then ultimately will be the breeding process and the breeding facility will be producing a number of very unique cultivars for the New Zealand industry, that will be bred to be pest and disease tolerant and likewise high potency and stable cultivars. CWJ: Yes. Does this hinder your ability to think about the long term? Do you have a vision for the company in the long run, 20 years from now, where do you envision a company headed? TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: We see PURO as a pioneer in this industry. And we've got one chance to set the industry up right from the start and on the right footing. So that's a big part of that sustainable, organic, environmentally-focused practices. Now, the industry as a whole, we see huge potential. 14 | EDITION Nº. 23

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The New Zealand wine industry here is world-renowned, particularly our Sauvignon Blanc, which is right in the middle of our cultivation sites in Marlborough, and we're in the middle of New Zealand's wine country. We take a lot of inspiration from the New Zealand wine industry, which is worth 2.3 New Zealand billion dollars, which is about one and a half billion US Dollars. It's absolutely huge. I think it’s our sixth biggest export for the country. We would envisage the medical cannabis industry could be the size of the wine industry in 20 years’ time and even if it was half the size of the wine industry, we're talking tens of thousands of jobs and over $1,000,000,000 of earnings for the country. That's certainly our vision and it's certainly shared with the industry and the government. But ultimately, we need to prove and take the steps on the journey and prove to the world that New Zealand cannabis is a high-value niche and highvalue focus, as are other products such as wine, kiwifruit, and primary goods that New Zealand is very renowned for producing. CWJ: You've talked a lot about the value that you give to the national industry, workers, the economy, and providing jobs for everyone. Now, I want to talk a little bit about the product itself. I know you've talked about genetics so they can adapt to the environment. But have you

built any? Let's say flavors, different soils that might be unique to New Zealand. Have you taken advantage of the geographical condition? Do you find New Zealand's representation within the brand itself to be embedded within your products?

highest quality, which is demonstrated through organic status and accreditations and then ultimately evaluated by our buyers. And it's our vision and our focus and we've been fortunate enough to implement that strategy and vision. It's a challenging industry, it's exciting, and can do a lot of good.

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: We're on the pathway to proving a lot of that, and it's a big focus of our research and development within the company We do believe that it is going to be a key part of PURO’s cannabis distinction going forward. Ultimately, it has to be proven by science. We're doing that at the moment and a big part of our research program, which we're very blessed and fortunate to have support from the government and the community, is the fact that over time we are looking to demonstrate unique cultivars that have those characteristics and are quintessentially New Zealand, quintessentially Marlborough, and ultimately pay homage to some of our leading industries such as the wine industry.

Just to pick a niche, find where you can add value to our companies and in the industry rather than necessarily attempting to try and be aggressive. Because if you spread yourself too thin, then you'll be very good at nothing unless you're a superstar, and we haven't got too many of those.

CWJ: I have two questions. One is, what is your advice to those that are just getting into the industry right now as a company that has settled and it has grown so fast and it's an established player. What advice do you give? And the last one, out of curiosity why the name PURO?

CWJ: It's been a pleasure, Tim. Thank you for the time you've provided for us today.

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: It's a great question. First of all, the advice we can give our industry, and this applies to any industry as well, is to know your niche. So as one of my favorite sayings on business is to know your niche and be the best in the world at it. Now, I'm not sure where that quote comes from and who I've just quoted there, but it's a beautiful statement and summarizes PURO very, very well. For us, we want to be not necessarily the biggest. We just want to be the best, and the best for us is the

Right before the publication of this interview, CWJ learned that the New Zealand government has granted PURO 32 million dollars to support the local cannabis industry considered a high-value market that the country wants to see grow and be as successful as their wine industry, and this is the right time to make this kind of investment.

The name PURO is a play on the 100% pure and New Zealand branding. PURO is this Italian word for pure, but we really wanted to have an image and messaging that really sort of showed a company's value which is producing the purest, highest quality cannabis that is available. PURO popped up out of that sort of discussion and we adopted that name in our branding accordingly.

TIM ALDRIDGE - PURO NZ: Have a wonderful evening then. I guess it's morning over there. Have a wonderful rest of your day and thank you for your time.

https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/checkpoint/a udio/2018837536/nz-s-largest-medicinal-cannabisgrower-wins-govt-funding-boost

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CannaCountry

SWITZERLAND Switzerland has been working for some years on developing legislation allowing the cultivation, possession, and consumption of cannabis for medicinal purposes

Switzerland is one of the countries with the highest per capita income worldwide, a leader in innovation and competitiveness above the world's major powers, and one of the exemplary countries developing environmental regulations to defend and conserve it.

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CannaCountry CANNABIS AND LEGALIZATION

Empresa del mes Switzerland has been working for some years on developing legislation allowing the cultivation, possession, and consumption of cannabis for medicinal purposes. Possession of fewer than 10 grams of cannabis is no longer a criminal offense since September 28th, 2012. Accordingly, on September 25th, 2020, the Swiss Parliament passed an amendment to the Federal Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NarcA), which became effective on May 15th, 2021. The amendment provides a legal basis for scientific trials with selected groups of adultuse cannabis users residing in Switzerland. It establishes a federally regulated cultivation and harvesting process for narcotic cannabis with dose/potency limitations (20% THC), limits for pesticide residues, and warning label requirements. Federal ordinances will remain effective for ten years, determining individual criteria for trial participants and regulating domestic production and trade of psychotropic cannabis.

CANNABIS AND CULTIVATION It is legal to grow cannabis at home in Switzerland. But, only certain strains are allowed, i.e. those with THC levels below 1%, also known as "light cannabis." At the same time, it is legally allowed to send seeds to citizens. According to Concordat Latin Sur la Culture et le Commerce du Chanvre of 2012 (Latin Concordat on the Culture and Commerce of Hemp), residents of seven cantons (such as Geneva and Basel) can grow up to four plants from cannabis seeds only for personal use. A person who wants to grow hemp must obtain a valid authorization or license and be prepared to have their product tested to ensure that THC levels are 1% or lower. Thanks to the industrial hemp market in Switzerland, the country's economy has increased, making it prosper. The revenue generated by industrial hemp in 2018 was approximately €3.8 million.

Medicinal cannabis is legal in Switzerland, but only through a prescription and must be from the family doctor. Patients and physicians must receive a grant or permission from the Federal Office of Public Health (BAG) to use prescriptions. Physicians must apply to the BAG to have permission to write prescriptions. Currently, authorizations are granted to treat conditions such as Epilepsy, Severe Tremors, Cancer, Spasticity, Nausea, and Chronic Pain.

MEDICINAL CANNABIS IN SWITZERLAND

There are only a few hundred registered users due to the lack of official documentation describing medicinal cannabis' correct application and treatment in Switzerland. However, the Swiss government has begun to recognize the market value of the plant and plans to conduct large-scale studies on it. CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaLaw

Good News: NGOs in Argentina Will Be Allowed to Cultivate Cannabis NGOs can legally grow outdoors up to 9 cannabis plants in 15 square meters. Each NGO may represent up to 150 people, with up to 9 medicinal cannabis plants per patient. The Argentine government finally gave the long-awaited YES to the NGOs (NonGovernmental Organizations) registered in REPROCANN to grow cannabis for therapeutic purposes for approximately 150 people per entity. This is excellent news for the South American country since it means a transcendental success for the members of these institutions. In this sense, NGOs can legally grow outdoors up to 9 cannabis plants in 15 square meters, contrary to the old regulation that authorized only indoor growing. According to Minister Carla Vizzotti, "The objective of the measure is to simplify the steps to guarantee access to treatments for cannabis users for medicinal, therapeutic and palliative purposes and to incorporate civil organizations as third parties authorized to cultivate for the provision of a registered patient." 18 | EDITION Nº 23

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CannaLaw

At the same time, Vizzotti highlighted which categories of cultivation have authorization for NGOs. They must register in advance with the Ministry of Health to be able to supply medical cannabis users. When the number of authorized individuals is surpassed, NGOs can opt for the National Program researching the medicinal cannabis use and derivatives of the National Ministry of Health according to the resources it establishes.

But, What Are the

Conditions for NGOs?

• Number of Flowered Plants: from 1 to 9 per person represented. • Number of Square Meters Cultivated: Up to 6 m2 for indoor cultivation, and up to 15 m2 for outdoor cultivation, per property. • For Cultivation Purposes: NGOs may register multiple premises. • Load per Vehicle: Between one and six 30ml bottles, up to 40 grams of dried flowers, or up to the number of plants authorized per person.

• Each NGO may represent up to 150 people, with up to 9 medicinal cannabis plants per patient. Without a doubt, this resolution could mean a small step for Argentina but a great leap for cannabis.

CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaLaw

At first, in Italy, it was complicated for cannabis companies to obtain all their permits to operate completely legal. Currently, the model of companies that only focused on obtaining their benefits without helping the environment was left behind. More and more companies are deciding to enter the world of Social Responsibility, and the cannabis industry is not getting left behind in this area.

Corporate Social Responsibility focuses on representing the principles and values that characterize a way of being and doing business. It is not subject to legal obligations, but over time, it has come to develop some models and documents of CSR, which have become mandatory for some individuals over time.

At first, in Italy, it was complicated for cannabis companies to obtain all their permits to operate completely legal due to the current legislation 242/2016 and the number of stigmas that still surround the cultivation and sale of this plant. In Italy, there is no law on CSR as such, they follow the Code of Ethics, which they are obliged to adopt to prevent infractions under Law No. 231/2001 (later updated by Law 125/08, which provides for and regulates the "Social and administrative responsibility of legal persons and companies."

| EDITION Nº 23 | CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS

CannaLaw

In Italy, there is no law on CSR as such, they follow the Code of Ethics, which they are obliged to adopt to prevent infractions under Law No. 231/2001 (later updated by Law 125/08, which provides for and regulates the "Social and administrative responsibility of legal persons and companies." CSR applies to entities of legal stature and companies, regardless of their incorporation and associations, including those without legal status. This approach does not apply to the State, territorial public bodies, other noneconomic public bodies, and bodies performing functions of constitutional importance.

Cannabis companies in Italy are focusing strongly on demonstrating that the cultivation of the plant and all that is related to it is very beneficial.

Companies must submit to the Commercial Register the Social Report, known as the "Declaration of nonfinancial character" of the policies applied by the company on "environmental, social, personnel, respect for human rights, and the fight against active and passive corruption." These specifications are valid for listed companies, according to Legislative

CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaLaw

Decree no. 254 of December 30th, 2016, by which Italy transposed and implemented the European Directive 2014/95/EU. Thus, cannabis companies must precisely explain their socio-environmental and anticorruption policies. To the Italian State, it is not only important for companies to contribute to increasing the GDP but to have a Corporate Social Responsibility plan focusing on the ecosystem. They must implement actions that benefit future generations and the environment preservation.

It is precisely at this point that cannabis companies in Italy are focusing strongly, as they seek to demonstrate that the cultivation of the plant and everything related to it is very beneficial and has multiple uses for various traditional sectors such as:

| EDITION Nº 23 | CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS

paper, textiles, and food, as well as in other more innovative ones: bioplastics, biofuels, bioconstruction, but also cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Company of the Month

Interview with

HOLDINGS CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

Company of the Month

Jushi Holdings is a U.S. company engaged in the cultivation, processing, and distribution of medical and adultuse cannabis products. It currently has assets in different states such as California, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. In addition, it develops and manages high-end retail locations, premium brands, and cultivation, processing, and manufacturing facilities. Its platform is designed to set the new standard for a sophisticated and modern cannabis experience. CWJ: How was Jushi Holdings born? How was that process? Jushi Holdings: Hi! This is Trent Woloveck. Thanks for taking the time to jump on today. So Jushi was founded in 2016. Jim Cacioppo collaborated with fellow cannabis and finance experts Eric Moth and Don Barrett. They realized that by combining their shared knowledge of industry knowhow, they could make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals across the globe. They quickly gathered an impressive team of experts to create Jushi Holdings with the ambition to be a leading multi-state owner and operator of cannabis licenses. As you mentioned, our operations have grown rapidly with cultivation, manufacturing, and retail licenses across seven different states here in the U.S.

CWJ: That's really interesting. So considering the evolution since then and all of the success you have gathered, as you are one of the biggest cannabis companies in the United States, to what would you say Jushi owes its success? Jushi Holdings: First and foremost, I think it's all about the people. Having the best, most experienced strategic leadership and the emphasis on empowering employees at every level, it's given us a competitive advantage in the cannabis industry. We are focused on building a multistate portfolio of branded cannabis assets through opportunistic acquisitions and distressed workouts and then also through competitive applications. So leveraging that strategy and keeping the main focus on core markets like Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Illinois, these states will

| EDITION Nº 23 | CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS

always have us investing in them. Then also leveraging that by actively pursuing new and potential opportunities in other markets. CWJ: In recent years, the cannabis industry has grown dramatically in response to that expanded legalization and the flow of capital from venture capital firms and other investors. Definitely, the industry broke new ground last year in New Jersey, Montana, and South Dakota. Right now, you operate in eight states inside the country. Do you plan to expand outside the U.S.?

Jushi Holdings: I think we're always looking for ways to continue to expand and grow our business. And we remain focused on limited license markets in the U.S. with an M&A strategy. But we're always exploring diverse opportunities both domestically

Company of the Month

and abroad as programs become more precise and concise in other countries. CWJ: In your opinion, how has the Cannabis market changed since 2016, when Jushi began its operations? Jushi Holdings: I think it's matured a lot. What does that mean? Cannabis in general and the industry is moving into a much more mainstream conversation. You don't have to whisper that you're into cannabis or are pursuing cannabis opportunities anymore. So that's been really exciting to see. More states are starting to understand that the sky doesn't fall when you implement a cannabis medical program or an adult-use cannabis program. So we're seeing many states look at cannabis as an opportunity to expand taxes collected, job growth, and then infrastructure spending in their states, both at the state level and the local municipality level. So that's been a maturity of how legislators are thinking about programs. Next, just the sophistication of the industry in terms of technology and high performers from outside of the cannabis industry. We've been able to hire folks like Leo Garcia-Berg as our COO, who comes over from Mackenzie and AB InBev. Then also our EVP of Retail, Brendan Lynch, who came from building Apothecary, which we're acquiring, and Anthropologie, which is where he came over from, from two stores to 177 stores.

So being able to have conversations about the industry in general and then coming over to work in the industry has been an amazing kind of transformation for people looking at this as a career move, not just as a risk. Finally, as I said, the legislation and political climates, on both sides of the aisle of Democrats, but also now Republicans, of really looking at this industry as a viable opportunity for economic growth and societal change has been nothing short of amazing over the last four years since Jushi's coming into the marketplace. CWJ: Thank you for that answer; that’s great. Now, you recently acquired New Leaf. This agreement has three retail dispensaries, a cultivation facility, and a product manufacturing facility. But, why this company in particular? Jushi Holdings: We were thrilled to be able to enter into the agreement to acquire New Leaf. As you said, a vertically integrated company with the potential to significantly increase our presence in Nevada from a retail and a wholesale market. New Leaf boasts a well-established retail network with top-quality designforward dispensaries in coveted high-traffic locations. In addition to New Leaf's cultivation and processing assets, they are strongly aligned with our strategic expansion strategy in Nevada.

So this acquisition is expected to generate significant top-line growth and be immediately accretive from an increased market share of Jushi's best-inclass brands and establish a leadership position in one of the largest adult-use cannabis markets in the U.S. CWJ: Talking about your brand in general, is it on your agenda to implement new products into your catalog this year? Jushi Holdings: Yes. Last year we debuted a comprehensive suite of cannabis brands across multiple states. The Bank, which is our flower; The Lab, our extracted products; Testology, infused products; Nira +, which is a medical centric land of our infused products; and Sachet, a value brand of flowers. Being able to address a wide variety of consumers and patient needs is our goal. We are always looking to unveil other products and work with our teams to understand patient demand and customer demands. Since then, we've rolled out different brands and new products in states like Nevada, Virginia, and Ohio, and we'll continue to do so to create that brand awareness nationwide. CWJ: That's incredible! Jushi Holdings has the ambition to be a leading multi-state owner with the vision of creating a lasting impact on the lives of individuals when it comes to consuming cannabis.

CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

Company of the Month

One of your primary goals is to offer high-quality cannabis and hemp-based products. So can you tell us a bit of the process you go through to obtain these products you're currently offering? Jushi Holdings: Sure. So again, going back to my earlier comment about people first, we have a very talented bench of individuals that help create and push us on the product R&D side. Bringing that to fruition through the team is super imperative. We also marry that with our retail section to garner data and use analytics around what we know about patients and consumers.

26 | EDITION Nº. 23

So being able to bring that together with the commercial team to look at, understand,and drive the commercialization of those products, ensure the timeline, rollout, and options, creates a three-legged tripod to bring to market what we know. Those high-quality cannabis products help us best serve our patients and our customers. CWJ: Now, changing the subject a little. The coronavirus truly impacted the way that the industry works. Considering this, did the COVID-19 pandemic change in any way how you handle marketing and the selling experience for your customers?

| CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS

Jushi Holdings: Yes, it absolutely did. What we did as a business was to implement a more omnichannel strategy at the retail storefront. That strengthened our relationship with the Jushi customers and expanded new revenue streams to run out of that retail storefront. We've been able to fine-tune our digital platform, which focuses on the best-in-class express and contactless services to give our patients and our consumers a more frictionless experience. But now, we are looking to the future of having a meaningful experiential expansion, both at that retail storefront but also through a drive-thru and a home delivery where that is allowed. Bringing that omnichannel strategy to

Company of the Month

that retail distribution touchpoint to educate folks on what and how cannabis can benefit them is super important. But having multiple touchpoints on how they want to consume it or obtain it is also imperative. CWJ: When it comes to the customer experience and how COVID-19 impacts the industry, Jushi holdings always ensure that you purchase the highest quality and most consistent products in the U.S. market. So how do you build a customer experience in Jushi? What makes you stand out from other cannabis companies?

Jushi Holdings: I think it's kind of mixing cannabis with that art performance and curated designer products. We aim to be at the heart of the cannabis culture. By introducing this unique merchandising, we are developing a brand and an experience beyond shopping for cannabis. It's more of a retail scene, which I believe has been the key to the post-pandemic environment we're transitioning into now. At Beyond Hello, we design every single aspect of the customer experience, from our physical space to our digital services. We engage all the human senses, whether through color psychology, to

determine the look and feel, the musical design of the sound experience within the store, and then even the neuroscience of the smell through candles that we've created and now burn within our stores.It's merging those differentiators versus our competitors that have driven us to worry about the patient and the customer first to be that differentiated experience within the retail channel of the cannabis business. CWJ: On your website, you mentioned that there are new sophisticated cannabis consumers and that you need to meet their demands. What do these new customers desire from cannabis companies like yours? What specific demands have you identified? Jushi Holdings: Sure! The vision is to work with new and like-minded partners and build Jushi brands into a modern retail leader, which will blend exclusive and unique offerings with a cultural experience as the landscape for operating cannabis stores rapidly evolves. Jushi is venturing into the next frontier by creating a sophisticated retail scene you might expect to get at a Fred Segal or a Starbucks reserve, for example. These environments are where likeminded people gather to chat and discover new products or even music or art. Beyond just cannabis itself, this next-level experience of retail aims to sit right at the heart of the cannabis culture. Blending that high-end

CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

Company of the Month

cannabis retail with diverse and purposeful non-cannabis products and expertise is imperative for our success moving forward as we continue to evolve cannabis retail. CWJ: The growth rate in sales year over year in cannabis is impressive. So many cannabis companies and startups have been emerging because of this remarkable growth. So what would be your advice for smaller companies that look up to you? Jushi Holdings: First and foremost, you have to do your diligence on everything from the market you're looking to enter. There are a lot of rules and regulations that differ from the local jurisdictional level to the state level, so making sure you understand the baseline is super imperative. I also think there are many experienced people out there who have been in cannabis for a really long time, dating back to the regulated industry that started in Colorado. So seeking out and looking for mentors, I think it is super important. And then get involved in that local community, that local industry, and push for that movement and the acceptance that cannabis is just another business. Building that rapport again within that local community, I think, is imperative to drive success and buy-in for those smaller companies to succeed.

company in the next three years? Jushi Holdings: I believe the momentum is very real in cannabis at the federal level. That's a big positive. But I think, more importantly, we're seeing a lot of momentum at the state level too. That's really transitioning medical programs over to adult-use programs. Some states don't have robust medical programs, and they are coming and setting up these programs for their people. So I think you'll see that evolution and maturity over the next three years that, not only we as Jushi, but just the cannabis industry as a whole, serving a much larger patient and customer base. As Jushi, we plan to focus on new opportunistic markets and our businesses that would allow us to build on our core competencies and expertise to thrive in all of those new markets, whether it's medical or adult use. CWJ: Finally, as we push the legalization throughout the United States, how do you see the cannabis industry developing in the near future? Jushi Holdings: I think more and more states are coming on board, and policies will continue to be driven by them. I don't think there will be a fail swoop at the federal level. So staying focused on that state, on that local municipality, will be super important. At the federal level, I believe

CWJ: Where do you see the 28

we're hopeful to see movement on bipartisan supported legislation around some sort of banking allowance. That will be important here in the very near term. Finally, regardless, we will continue to stay the course and build out our strategy as Jushi in the U.S. In the cannabis industry, and that is the last thing I guess I'd say, there is something super important: You can't go and chase the shiny object. Stay focused and have a firm belief in that business plan, in that strategy, and continue to push forward because that's what will drive success in the end.

| EDITION Nº. 23 | CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS

CWJ: We definitely appreciate all of this. This conversation was really productive. Thank you for giving us this interview. Jushi Holdings: Thank you so much.

CannaTrade

HEMP

Hemp can derive two types of biofuels: biodiesel made from the pressed seed oil and ethanol made from the fermented stalk. The (increasingly frequent and uncomfortable) news about human-induced climate change suggests that the damage will be potentially irreversible if no action is taken soon, this is a reality we live with. However, not all hope is lost, there is still time to help prevent the damage. The International Panel on Climate Change establishes a direct link between fossil fuels and global warming. When fossil fuels burn, they release a huge amount of carbon dioxide. Since giving up fuel would be impossible for humanity, one of the environmental measures proposed is using cleaner energy through natural resources.

This is where hemp comes in, a plant with thousands of uses through its stalks, leaves, and seeds. By compressing oil from the plant's seeds, after several processes, it becomes biofuel (a fuel obtained from plant material) available for cars, planes, trucks, and others. In general, two types of biofuels derive from this plant: biodiesel, made from pressed seed oil, and ethanol, made from the fermented stalk.

What are the Advantages of Hemp Biofuel over Fossil Fuel? • Hemp has low cultivation requirements and production is cheaper than other plants. • It is environmentally friendly and does not need large amounts of pesticides, fertilizers, or water.

CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaTrade

• Develop generous crops of raw material. • It grows faster in tropical climates and can have up to 2 harvests per year. • Up to 35% of the weight of hemp seeds corresponds to natural oil, producing approximately 780 liters per hectare. • It extends the useful life of engines because it provides better lubrication. • It helps to decontaminate cities and reduce the gasses responsible for global warming. • It is safer to transport and store, its flash point is 100°C higher than fossil fuels. • Its production promotes job opportunities in the agricultural sector and rural areas. • It does not contaminate surface or subway water sources. 30

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In addition, hemp is a cleaner energy source than other crops such as soybeans and rapeseed. The hemp alternative would avoid using crops primarily destined for the food industry such as corn and wheat. For these reasons and more, those countries that are not oil producers have an eye on hemp-based biodiesel and ethanol for their environmental and economic benefits.

CannaTrade

Hemp’s

Profitability and Opportunities

n 2015, the UN adopted 17 SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) as a call to action that, by 2030, there would be no more poverty and to ensure that, by that year, all people enjoy peace and prosperity and the planet is protected. These goals are:

Cannabis and its derivatives still have a lot to contribute, but this has not been evident or effective because of the many prohibitions worldwide.

1. End poverty 2. Zero hunger and sustainable agriculture 3. Health and wellness 4. Quality education 5. Gender equality 6. Clean water and sanitation 7. Affordable and clean energy 8. Decent work and economic growth 9. Industry, innovation, and infrastructure 10. Reduction of inequalities 11. Sustainable cities and communities 12. Responsible production and consumption 13. Action against global climate change 14. Underwater life 15. Terrestrial life and ecosystems 16. Peace, justice, and strong institutions 17. Partnerships to achieve the goals CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaTrade

The report "Cannabis & Sustainable Development" by researchers Kenzi Riboulet-Zemouli, Simon AnderfuhrenBiget, Martin Díaz Velásquez, and Michael Krawitz, concludes that Cannabis Sativa L. can contribute to 15 of these SDGs; while hemp, one of its subspecies, contributes to 8 of these goals.

Some of hemp's contributions are:

• Zero Hunger and Sustainable

Agriculture (2): Hemp seed offers relevant nutritional benefits to fight malnutrition. It can also replace less sustainable crops that affect the planet more.

• Health and Wellness (3): As it is

known, the plant's phytocannabinoids have important medicinal properties, allowing them to treat various diseases.

• Quality Education (4): Evidence-

Legal cannabis cultivation and trade favor the development of employment, especially in areas where opportunities are scarce 32

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based and targeted education and prevention in elementary schools are necessary to help young people make smarter and more informed decisions about using cannabis products later in life. Also, providing knowledge about the benefits of the plant.

CannaTrade ● ● ● ●

Gender Equality (5): Women are great followers of medicinal cannabis because it has helped them treat conditions exclusive to women's health and their children. Affordable and Non-Polluting Energy (7): Cannabis is known for its capabilities and for being very environmentally friendly, as its cultivation has an extremely low carbon footprint, bringing at the same time many other benefits to the planet. Decent Jobs and Economic Growth (8): Legal cannabis cultivation and trade favor employment growth, especially in areas where opportunities are scarce. Reduction of Inequality (10): As long as hemp is prohibited, there will still be people who are victims of discriminatory policies and the violation of their rights.

Thus, cannabis would contribute to each of these opportunities and, according to the study, the only objectives not achieved with Cannabis sativa L. would be

• Clean Water and Sanitation (6) • Underwater Life (14) It is evident how cannabis and its derivatives still have a lot to contribute, but this has not been evident or effective because of the many prohibitions worldwide. An example of this is Brazil, where agricultural production is one of the main economic foundations since products such as coffee, soybeans, meat, and sugar get exported to various countries. It indicates the great potential, and the great opportunities, that Brazil's legalization of hemp would have. Because, in addition to contributing to the economic, environmental, and social areas, it would help to meet the UN's objectives. Several countries such as the United States, Canada, Colombia, and Uruguay have already benefited by accepting and authorizing the plant's cultivation. CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaTrade

The Path to

a Sustainable Cannabis Industry

The cannabis industry as a legal endeavor is young but very profitable. The projected sales for 2028 are close to $200 billion. As with any successful and rapidly expanding business, it has come under the public's watchful eye. Regulators, investors, and consumers are examining more critically the environmental, social, and ethical practices of the cannabis industry, and guess what? Cannabis is not as 'green' as everybody thought. Evan Mills, a respected energy scientist, discovered that indoor cannabis grows in California consumed an amount of electricity equivalent to 1 million homes. But since we are talking about a business sector that is not federally legal, it is not a surprise that a definitive and standardized set of regulations regarding sustainability throughout the whole seedto-sale process, in the cannabis industry does not exist. There are no low-waste, low emission, and energy efficiency norms to adhere to. Nevertheless, the industry has looked inward and acknowledged that climate change is the most critical issue our society currently faces, taking responsibility for the environmental and social impact of cannabis is not just the "nice" thing to do.

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Not so long ago, the interest in the environment, community engagement, and philanthropy integrated what was known as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), it was the "cool" thing that every company had to do. Nowadays, all company executives have had to learn the term "environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG)".

CannaTrade Businesswise, when referring to the environmental impact, it includes a company's greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, conservation, waste, and pollution. While, governance refers to structures within a company, such as the Board of Directors, Diversity, Payment equity, Tax Strategy, Political Lobbying, Supply Chain Policies, and Executive Payment. ESG measures all these different aspects and then ideally compares and reports them. Within the Cannabis industry, there is social and economic pressure to report ESG performance. On one hand, investors push companies by paying a premium to those companies with strong ESG policies; in return, these enterprises see better valuations and market performance. To investors, sustainability means better long-term returns because ESG applications will have positive business repercussions. In the cannabis industry, investors tend to be younger, often Millennials and Generation Z, with a tendency to be more actively engaged. in social change and demanding that their funds do not support environmentally risky industries. On the other hand, governments are also pushing for ESG measurement and reporting metrics, which could Businesswise, when referring impact the legalization and decriminalization initiatives to the worldwide. environmental impact, it includes a company's greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, conservation, waste, and pollution

For the industry to truly become cleaner, it will take a concerted effort from all involved to embrace sustainability practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and new technologies. The cannabis and hemp companies have the opportunity to offset the environmental footprint caused by growing, manufacturing, and distributing the plant, but also to lead the way in literally creating a greener future. To achieve this, various organizations address the environmental challenges found in the industry: The National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA), the Cannabis Sustainability Working Group, The Cannabis Alliance, and the Sustainability Cannabis Coalition. All offer some kind of program focused on education, research, and partnerships with cannabis entrepreneurs, consultants and contractors, government, sustainability, and policy experts to create best practice guidelines and policies.

CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaTrade Evan Mills, a respected energy scientist, discovered that indoor cannabis grows in California consumed an amount of electricity equivalent to 1 million homes.

Then, it is not crazy to assume that being sustainable could determine a company's long-term success. Cannabis businesses of all sizes will benefit significantly from developing a well-designed corporate sustainability program, which will guarantee them:

• New business opportunities and better customer retention • Creates a positive work environment, attracting a better talent

• Positive public opinion • Establishes leadership within the industry • Generates a clear competitive advantage in the market • Financially efficient with resources and operating costs. Sustainability is critical in the whole time-tomarket process, from farming to product manufacturing, packaging, and the supply chain. For example, energy and water are the main expenditures for most farms. They increase the cost of cannabis production, but monitoring both, and creating a feedback mechanism, could significantly improve financial performance and reduce risk. 36

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failure to consider how to address these environmental issues can harm the bottom line and ultimately profits. Another way to be more environmentally conscious is by modifying farming practices. For example, switching to biodynamic farming, an integral method of organic farming that creates a closed system sourcing resources from the dynamics of farm life itself. It is the most responsible way a farm can operate.

The “Sustainability is a long-game play,” says Shawn Cooney, founder of Cloud Farming and Corner Stalk Farm. “The cannabis industry is facing the same challenges as any other industry. We are only just beginning to scratch the surface on sustainability, unlike other industries, the cannabis space is still in its infancy, and we can ingrain best practices directly into the foundation.” As the cannabis industry moves forward, lawmakers and business leaders must be responsible for resources, the environment, and future generations. Through environmentally-conscious practices, the industry will establish strong foundations on a path to irreversible success and growth.

CannaTrade

Profitability of Hemp Cultivation

and Its Derivates CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaTrade

Profits from crops grown for fiber or grain are more similar to edible crops such as corn or soybeans Hemp is one of the crops that have grown the most worldwide. The demand for this crop as a raw material is one of the factors that has made more and more farmers bet on its cultivation. Although one of the leading derivatives of hemp cultivation, due to its profitability, has been CBD oil, the plant provides us with many more possibilities that we can use as a versatile raw material. In countries with well-established hemp industries, such as the United States, profits per acre of cultivation can range from 130 to 730 USD when the crops are grown for grain and fiber. However, profits multiply when it comes to hemp production for CBD oil, reaching $2500 to $75000 per acre.

For some farmers, switching to hemp and leaving other crops behind has been a strategy that has given them a significant 38 | EDITION Nº 23

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economic advantage. For example, they can charge $30 to $40 per pound of hemp for CBD extraction. If we compare it to crops such as kale, which sells for $1 per pound, it is clear why the agricultural sector has decided to bet on the cultivation of this plant. - Hemp cultivation is subject to different regulations regarding pesticides, licensing costs, agroclimatic needs, and many other factors It is essential to understand that not all hemp crops are the same; there are distinct varieties intended for different purposes. In this sense, profits from crops grown for fiber or grain are more similar to edible crops such as corn or soybeans. However, this type of crop relies on less care and resources than a crop intended for CBD extraction, so it also has advantages in terms of operating costs.

CannaTrade

Although the profits from industrial hemp cultivation are comparable to those of other edible crops, multiple factors make hemp cultivation more complex. Hemp cultivation is subject to different regulations regarding pesticides, licensing costs, agro-climatic needs, and many other factors. Among the most profitable industries for hemp over the next few years are:

● ● ● ● ●

High CBD hemp cultivation Manufacture of hemp derivatives such as oils, creams, and personal care products Hemp flour for nutritional use Hemp textiles Hemp plastic

The hemp materials industry could become as profitable as traditional crops such as cotton.

However, production and processing facilities are scarce, which has led to a limited supply of materials. As regulation changes, more farmers look to enter the industry, and the need for more sustainable materials expands. We will undoubtedly see an increase in the supply of hemp derivatives in the marketplace.

CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

CannaMed

Hemp Seeds Medicinal Properties Hemp seeds are gluten-free and are a great source of easily digestible protein Humankind has used hemp seeds since immemorial times for its multiple medicinal benefits. However, its consumption has been popularized in recent years, thanks to the identification of its therapeutic properties and nutritional profile, which stands out for its excellence in the group of superfoods. Likewise, hemp seeds have lower concentrations of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), around 0.2%, making it the ideal supplement to maintain a healthy lifestyle without the psychoactive effects of the compound. We should note that hemp seeds are gluten-free and are a great source of easily digestible protein. If we compare its concentration with other foods such as soybeans and eggs, 100g of hulled hemp seed is equivalent to 45% protein. 40 | EDITION Nº 23

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In contrast, soybeans have 32% and eggs only 11%. Thus, making it an optimal nutritional supplement for protein diets. The nutritional composition of hemp seeds contains fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals capable of interacting with the body's cells to control different diseases. For example, the seeds contain an essential amino acid called arginine, a metabolic precursor for nitric oxide production. It can send signals to the cardiovascular system participating in the dilation and relaxation of blood vessels, lowering blood pressure, and preventing the formation of blood clots.

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Nutritional composition per 100 g of hemp seeds. Source: http://dx.doi.org/10.10 16/B978-0-12375688-6.10074-X

Hemp seeds are a great source of linoleic acid and α-linoleic acid in a 3:1 ratio, ideal for combating joint inflammation, nerve damage, skin conditions, osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. On the other hand, its high concentrations of magnesium and vitamin B help the body manage the stress of daily life by reducing anxiety and depression levels. A hemp seed extract has antioxidant effects due to its CBD (cannabidiol) content, which regulates the immune system, preventing neuronal cells' wear and the formation of degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, Alzheimer and Parkinson's. Its fiber content is essential for the wellbeing of the digestive system, helping with constipation, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, intestinal flora, and obesity. In addition, thanks to the omega-3 fatty acid, vitamin A, vitamin E, and other minerals provided by the seeds, you can maintain a healthier, softer, and hydrated skin and hair, minimizing the appearance of

conditions such as psoriasis, acne, hair loss, and dryness.

Recent research with linoleic acid and αlinoleic acid in hemp seeds demonstrated a 15% to 22% reduction in blood cholesterol after six weeks of dietary administration in middle-aged patients. Similarly, an epidemiological study showed that supplementation of 23 g per day of polyunsaturated fatty acids from hemp helped lower blood pressure in patients after four weeks of dietary intervention. Pre-clinical trials suggested that omega3 and omega-6 fatty acids possess antiinflammatory properties, decreasing chronic diseases such as pancreatitis and renal cancer. A diet low in polyunsaturated fatty acids is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease. Therefore, hemp consumption may be beneficial in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease. CANNABIS WORLD JOURNALS | EDITION Nº 23 |

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Fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, help improve the skin's structure by regulating the fluidity of cell membranes and electrolyte transport to prevent dryness. Also, hemp compounds such as CBD and CBN (cannabinol) increase collagen production, attenuating the scars caused by acne, and stimulating cell renewal and regeneration processes. Hemp seeds. Source: http://acta.uniobuda.hu/Kowalska_Wozniak_Pazdzior_79.pd

It has also been proven that the combination of these cannabinoids and vitamins provided by hemp oil reduces oxidative stress, preventing the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles. A study published in 2018 shows that the use of compounds such as CBD has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, stimulating synaptic plasticity (functioning of neurons when they establish communication, modulating the perception of incoming and outgoing stimuli), causing the decrease of episodes of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, it reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines, preserving neuronal cells and granting relief for different neurodegenerative diseases. In conclusion, hemp seeds are an extra supply of energy. They improve the quality of life of those who consume it for its homeostatic and antioxidant action, which keeps the body's cells strong and healthy. Thus, they are considered the most significant potential of the cannabis plant for health and wellness.

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Sources: Kowalska, M., Wozniak, M., Pazdzior, M. (2017). Assessment of the sensory and moisturizing properties of emulsions with hemp oil. Acta Polytechnica Hungarica, 14, 183-195. http://acta.uniobuda.hu/Kowalska_Wozniak_Pazdzior_79.pdf Rodriguez, D., Pierce, G. (2010). The cardiac and haemostatic effects of dietary hempseed. Nutr Metab (Lond), 7, 32. https://dx.doi.org/10.1186%2F1743-7075-7-32 Rodriguez, D., McCullough, R., Pierce, G. (2011). Medicinal Use of Hempseeds (Cannabis sativa L.): Effects on Platelet Aggregation. Nuts & Seeds in Health and Disease Prevention, 74, 637-645. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12375688-6.10074-X

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Hemp's

Health and Wellness Benefits

It is important to understand that there are differences between hemp oil and CBD oil. Did you know that there are differences between hemp and cannabis? Although they are plants of the same species, they are varieties with different characteristics (hemp belongs to the Cannabis Sativa species, and cannabis belongs to the Cannabis Indica species). Cannabis indica contains up to 30% of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). On the other hand, hemp has practically zero THC content (typically less than 0.3%). Hemp oil’s versatility is impressive, such as using it as cooking oil, just like any other type of healthy oil

Hemp oil is also called hemp seed oil, and it is made from cold-pressed hemp seeds. CBD oil is extracted from the cannabis plant and then combined with a carrier oil. Examples of carrier oils include coconut or olive oil. Additionally, hemp oil has little or no CBD content. CBD oil is made by extracting the CBD compound from a hemp plant's leaves, flowers, and stems. Hemp oil contains healthy nutrients such as:

It is crucial to understand the differences between hemp oil and CBD oil. Hemp oil is also

• Proteins • Essential fatty acids (such as omega 3 and 6), which are essential for our health.

• Minerals like zinc, magnesium, calcium, iron, and more. • Antioxidants such as vitamin E. The versatility of uses of hemp oil is impressive. Like any other healthy oil, we can use it as cooking oil and add it to foods such as salads, sauces, and spreads. Animal studies suggested that hemp seed oil may lower blood pressure. It may also reduce the risk of stroke and heart attacks. However, this has not been proven in human studies. Additionally, hemp oil is often used as a hair conditioner or skin moisturizer. Some studies have found that this oil can

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improve dry, itchy skin and relieve the symptoms of eczema, a common skin condition. When used for eczema symptoms, it can reduce the need for conventional and commercial medications. Other health benefits of hemp oil:

Although we need still need more studies and research to support the benefits of hemp, some people use it as a remedy for many diseases, among which we can highlight: • • • • • • • • •

Asthma Cough Swelling Arthritis Syphilis Pneumonia Heart problems Urinary conditions (increased urine flow) Warts (when applied to the skin)

Hemp contains chemicals that can affect the heart and help lower blood pressure.

Hemp also contains terpenes, which are compounds that give plants their distinctive odors and have multiple beneficial properties for our body's health. Some studies suggest that the terpenes present in hemp oil may have health benefits. These benefits may include: • • •

Neuroprotective or brain-protective benefits Anti-inflammatory benefits Antitumor properties

Source: Christiansen, S. (September, 22nd, 2021). What Is Hemp? Nutritional Advantages of Eating Hemp Seeds and Hemp Seed Oil. https://www.ver ywellhealth.co m/hempbenefits-sideeffects-dosageandinteractions4767355

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Disclaimer: Cannabis World Journals from its position as a purely educational journal is not responsible for the issuance of personal opinions for informational purposes. For the proper, responsible, and safe use and handling of cannabis, consult the laws of your country and/or your family doctor or specialist.