In the sprawling landscapes of California, a water crisis looms large, exacerbated not just by climate change and prolonged droughts but also by the clandestine activities of illegal marijuana cultivators. These unauthorised growers are tapping into the state’s water supplies, diverting millions of gallons from local ecosystems and communities, to irrigate their expansive and often...
Category: Crisis and Alerts
The Rise of the Semi-Sober Generation: Millennials and Gen Z Rewrite the Rules of Social Drinking
In a significant cultural shift that marks a departure from past generations, millennials and Gen Z are increasingly adopting a semi-sober or entirely alcohol-free lifestyle. This movement reflects a broader transformation in attitudes towards health, social interaction, and the role of alcohol in society. The Rising Wave of Sobriety Among Younger Generations With over 2.6...
A Troubling Trend: The 245% Increase in Cannabis Abuse Among Youth
In a groundbreaking study that casts new light on substance abuse trends among the youth in the United States, researchers at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) have identified a dramatic escalation in cannabis abuse among adolescents over a two-decade span. The study, published in Clinical Toxicology, underscores a 245% increase in cannabis abuse from...
Show Me The Marijuana Money Tax?
The legalisation of marijuana has been a hot-button issue in the United States, promising not just a shift in legal and societal norms but also a significant economic boon for states that choose to legalise. However, as more states have embarked on this green venture, the anticipated river of gold from marijuana taxes has sometimes...
California’s Legal Cannabis Market Faces Hurdles Amid Economic Gains
In 2019, California marked its place as a pioneer in the legal cannabis industry, yet the state’s ambitious venture has encountered unexpected headwinds. Despite the legalisation opening new economic avenues and generating substantial revenue, the reality fell short compared to initial projections. According to NPR, while California did experience an increase in cannabis revenue, the...
The Alarming Rise in Alcohol-Related Deaths Among Women
In recent years, the global community has witnessed an unsettling trend: a significant rise in alcohol-related deaths, particularly among women. This surge challenges the perceived progress in public health and sobriety culture, raising critical questions about societal norms, mental health, and the role of alcohol in contemporary life. A comprehensive study by the U.S. Centers...
Xylazine’s Alarming Presence in Illicit Opioids
In a compelling development that has raised concerns on both sides of the US-Mexico border, Mexican authorities have issued a stark warning about the presence of xylazine, colloquially known as the ‘zombie drug’, found mixed with opioids. This warning underscores the growing menace of drug adulteration and its potential for exacerbating the opioid crisis that...
Delta-8 Debate: Texas Faces Cannabis Legal Challenges
The evolving landscape of cannabis laws in Texas has taken a new turn with the increasing popularity and legal scrutiny of Delta-8 THC products. Amidst a complex legal framework and growing consumer interest, there is a heightened need for clarity regarding the status of Delta-8 and its implications for both businesses and consumers within the...
Tensions Rise as DC Marijuana Dispensary Gets Green Light Near School
In a move that has sparked significant controversy and concern among local residents, a marijuana dispensary has been granted permission to open its doors in close proximity to a school in Washington, DC. This decision has led to an uproar among parents and community members who are fuming over the potential implications for the youth...
Setback for Marijuana Legalisation Efforts in Hawaii
In a surprising turn of events, the push for marijuana legalisation in Hawaii has come to an abrupt halt. A bill that sought to legalise the substance for recreational use was unexpectedly killed by House leaders, marking a significant setback for advocates of cannabis reform in the state. This development has sparked a flurry of...