ASTM D8245-19

3.1 The practical applications of these guidelines include the adoption of international guidelines for the disposal of controlled substances, harmonization with the UN Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, clarification of controlled and uncontrolled parts of the cannabis plant, and flexible and economical disposal methods for resin containing cannabis raw materials and downstream products.

3.2 This guide provides a step-by-step method for the implementation of a disposal process capable of rendering cannabis raw materials and products containing resins irretrievable, non-reclaimable, and safe to compost, commingle with municipal waste, or incinerate.

3.3 This guide is intended to be used by cannabis operations, such as cultivators, manufacturers, distributors, and laboratories. This guide clearly distinguishes between those parts of the plant that require being rendered irretrievable before further processing or disposal and those parts of the plant that do not require any type of special processing or handling protocols.

3.4 This guide is useful for regulators, as it provides assurance that cannabis operations and authorized consumers who follow the guide will be able to mitigate diversion of waste cannabis raw materials and products containing resins, thereby maintaining the safety and health of the public and environment.

3.5 This guide provides authorized consumers with a way to dispose of medical and/or adult-use cannabis products in a safe and compliant manner similar to that used for prescription medications.

3.6 Use of this guide will minimize the amount of waste that is produced by cannabis operations, relieving both economic and logistical resources of the operators and authorities having jurisdiction.

1.1 This guide encompasses generalized guidelines for the disposal of cannabis raw materials and products containing resins. The guidelines presented can also be applied to the disposal of planting seed.

1.2 This guide also provides guidance for authorized consumers outlining the safe and secure disposal of unwanted, unused, or expired resin cannabis products at home or through use of a take-back program facilitated by a cannabis operation or the authority having jurisdiction.

1.3 This guide does not cover the disposal of seeds, leaves, stalks, or roots so long as they are not accompanied by the flowers or resins.

1.4 This guide does not cover the disposal of other waste materials commonly generated by a cannabis operation, such as waste grow-media, cleaning agents, pesticides, fertilizers, solvents, lighting (mercury- and lead-based), hazardous materials, laboratory wastes generated during quality assurance and quality control, water, or unused packaging and label materials.

1.5 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.