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New Leadership Takes Helm of ASTM D37 on Cannabis
In a significant development for the cannabis industry, the ASTM International’s Committee D37 has elected new leadership for the 2026–2027 term. David Vaillencourt, co-founder of the S3 Collective and a passionate advocate for standards in the cannabis sector, has become chair of the committee. He is joined by Darwin Millard, the technical director of Cannabis Safety & Quality (CSQ), who will serve as the vice chair.
What is ASTM D37 and Why It Matters
The Committee D37 on Cannabis was established in 2017, bringing together industry leaders to craft standards focused on quality and safety in the growing cannabis and hemp sector. As the global community surrounding cannabis expands, having rigorous and widely recognized standards becomes crucial. With over 1,200 members globally, the committee has already developed more than 40 standards that enhance the compliance, safety, and overall quality of cannabis products. Vaillencourt's leadership is expected to further these efforts, ensuring that the established standards are practical and widely adopted by both regulators and industry practitioners.
A Focus on Inclusivity and Relevance
One of the primary goals articulated by Vaillencourt and Millard is to enhance member participation and to involve a broader diversity of experts in crafting the standards. This inclusivity is vital for creating standards that hold value across different sectors of the industry, from cultivation to consumer use. By prioritizing diverse voices, the committee aims to strengthen trust between market participants, facilitating clearer expectations regarding product safety and efficacy.
Engagement Is Key: Call to Action for Stakeholders
S3 Collective encourages a wide array of stakeholders, including cannabis operators, regulators, public health experts, medical practitioners, and patient advocates, to join the ASTM D37's consensus process. The outcome of this shared effort is anticipated to protect not only consumers but also workers within the cannabis ecosystem. As participation grows, so too does the potential for meaningful industry advancements.
Implications for Industry Standards
The leadership transition comes at a crucial moment when various states and countries are re-evaluating their cannabis regulations. Establishing clear, vetted standards will not only help to assure product quality but also provide a framework through which regulators can effectively monitor compliance. This commitment to standardization not only enhances public health outcomes but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth within the industry.
The recent leadership elections underscore an ongoing evolution within the cannabis sector—where standardization is not just an afterthought but a fundamental pillar of trust and safety in this burgeoning marketplace.
By participating in ASTM D37, members have the chance to influence the future landscape of cannabis regulations and standards, ultimately contributing to a safer and more transparent market.
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