Generation Z (Gen Z) has redefined trends across industries, including the cannabis sector. With new trends from the group born between the mid-1990s to the early 2010s, I have noticed that Gen Z is changing how cannabis is viewed, consumed, and legalized.
Key Takeaways
- Gen Z sees cannabis beyond the high and focuses more on its potential wellness benefits.
- The new generation is making cannabis more aesthetically pleasing through education on social platforms.
- Gen Z continues to advocate for justice and equity for all kinds of marijuana users.
How Gen Z is Transforming the Cannabis Industry
Let me present you some of the numerous ways my little Gen Z clique is changing the marijuana industry.
Cannabis is More Than Getting High
To the younger generation, using marijuana transcends its high feeling. Gen Z particularly views marijuana from a wellness perspective rather than for its intoxication, so they view cannabis as a potential tool for various well being purposes. This is evident in how the generation uses marijuana for self-care, mental health issues, and other wellness-related reasons that suit their lifestyles.
For instance, more Gen Z cannabis users consider it a good way to not only relax or socialize, but also potentially alleviate stress, reduce pain, and combat anxiety through natural plants. This is why substances like CBD (cannabidiol) and Delta-8 THC (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) are gaining popularity among users instead of highly intoxicating ones like THC.
Also, microdosing is more favored by Gen Z users. This helps them take in small doses of cannabis for its mild feeling since their primary reason for using cannabis isn’t because of the intoxicating effects.
Emphasis on Social Justice and Equity
Over time, Gen Z has stood out as the voice of the voiceless, driving various social justice initiatives and political activism. In the cannabis industry, this generation is constantly pursuing various social and legal issues related to cannabis use and consumption. For instance, criminalizing marijuana users, especially those in marginalized societies, is one thing Gen Z is changing.
They are constantly pursuing justice for such people and seeking the creation of a more equitable cannabis industry. They are at the forefront of new advocacies seeking policies that combat social injustice, decriminalization of cannabis use under certain circumstances, and a fair system that allows businesses and individuals to venture into the marijuana world.
Some Gen Z advocates go as far as supporting cannabis businesses that drive diversity and inclusion through corporate social responsibility (CSR), as they believe equity is crucial to the future of the broader cannabis industry.
A Shift Toward Sustainability
There have been numerous calls for the world to go greener and support more sustainable habits. Gen Zs in the cannabis industry are dedicated to this goal by playing a crucial role in supporting brands with eco-friendly products and practices. These include businesses that prioritize greener packaging, organic cultivation, and sustainable distribution methods.
The generation is also driving the shift toward healthier consumption methods like tinctures, edibles, capsules, and vaporizers instead of smoking. Additionally, Gen Z drives the use of more reusable accessories like glass or silicone pipes and glass rolling tips (instead of paper filters).
Digital Trends Around Modern Cannabis Culture
Cannabis content is now viral on social media, thanks to Gen Z. From Twitter (X) to TikTok, billions of people now see various cannabis conversations online. These include guides, tutorials, tips, and shared experiences from cannabis influencers and memes. They’re also driving the increased demand for niche cannabinoids like THC-P (tetrahydrocannabiphorol), THCa, and HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol).
But that’s not all. The digital trend around marijuana has created an unconventional way for users to make money online. More cannabis businesses are also racking up their social media presence to boost adoption and sales among Gen Z because they are at the forefront of trends in cannabis-focused apps, online ordering, and online platforms that enable them to connect with like-minded people.
Supporting Education and Navigating Legal Loopholes
Gen Z belongs to a curious generation that’s constantly looking for answers to questions, so they are at the forefront of cannabis education. They ask about terpenes, talk about transparency, and are eager to try new products. They also spearhead peer-to-peer education on social media and beyond, offering first-hand experiences, reviews of cannabis-infused products, and providing tips to one another.
With the knowledge, they can navigate legal loopholes through updated information about the cannabis industry and how to access products legally. They also patronize compliant online retailers and leverage their state availability to avoid legal trouble. Finally, they choose products in the legal gray areas, such as THC-A, Delta-8, and CBD, which puts them in a good position as far as the laws are concerned.
With these approaches above, Gen Z is spearheading a cultural shift in the marijuana industry. Their impacts are poised to be long-lasting in combating stigma, sensitizing older marijuana users, and driving the mainstream adoption of cannabis and its mindful use cases.
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