Every new industry is the same: while many beneficial changes come with new regulation, there is also a slew of new problems that arise. One of those issues for cannabis legalization is packaging waste. New regulations in California, for instance, have prioritized safety by requiring hefty amounts of packaging and tamper-proof material for each individual product. These rules have drawn criticism from environmental activists and concerned citizens alike, as cannabis packaging is expected to produce massive amounts of new plastic in landfills.
It may not be as effective as cutting your meat and dairy intake, but there are environmentally friendly ways to ensure not all your cannabis packaging goes to waste. A great example is the plastic tubes each individual pre-roll is packaged in. If you enjoy smoking, you know there is nothing better than a pre-roll after a long and stressful day. But with single-use plastic on its way out, it’s time to get creative with all those old preroll containers lying around. Go beyond the recycle bin and choose to reuse with these DIY ideas.
1. Pre-rolls
Needless to say, all pre-roll packaging is specifically made for, well… pre-rolls. Holding onto your plastic pre-roll containers mean you have a go-to pre-roll holder for a lifetime. Preroll your favorite flower and place it into your container to enjoy during a hike, before a movie, or at a concert.
2. Flower
If you are excited about a new strain and want to share with your friends without running dry, break up or grind a small nugget of your best flower to store in your tube before a night on the town. This way, you can contribute your flower without your entire cache disappearing after a night of fun.
3. Spice it Up
Make cooking quicker by pre-mixing seasonings for your favorite plates. Pinch a little of this and little of that into a thoroughly washed tube in preparation for your next dinner party or after a long day of work. By saving a few extra minutes, you can spend more time relaxing and less time in the kitchen.
4. Toothpicks
Tuck a tube of toothpicks away in your car. Sneak one after your dinner date and before the nightcap to avoid any cliché, spinach-in-teeth fiascos.
5. Money
Need an emergency fund in the car or want to keep to a budget during happy hour? Practice some discipline and budget your night accordingly, then wad up the exact amount you want to spend. Stick it in your preroll tube, slip it in your pocket, and enjoy the night, guilt-free!
6. Sewing Kit
Store a few needles and bundles of thread for an emergency sewing kit. Keep the tube in your car, purse, or luggage for a quick fix to fashion emergencies.
7. Protein Powder
We all know the guy that has a massive plastic jar of protein powder on display somewhere on top of the fridge. Don’t be that guy. Looking to bulk up more subtly? Pack your tube with protein powder to add to your smoothie or juice while you are on the run!
8. Toiletries
Pre-roll tubes make great travel companions, even after the original pre-roll is long gone. Squeeze some shampoo into one container and conditioner into another. Place a square of saran wrap on top then firmly fit on the cap. This trick is perfect for a weekend getaway or camping trip.
9. Q-tips
Another trick for a short getaway: bundle some Q-tips into the tube and place it in your luggage or car. Use them when you’re feeling waxy or need a quick way to clean the gunk out of a bowl or pipe.
10. Pills
Count out all your vitamins and prescriptions needed for a short vacation or weekend getaway and place them in your tube, so you don’t have to lug around a ton of pill bottles. If you are going away for an extended trip, count out the amount of each pill you will need, then place them in different colored preroll tubes. Stick a small piece of masking tape on the outside of the container and label each with a sharpie. Or, fill it with Advil or ibuprofen and store somewhere convenient for any pesky aches or pains throughout the day.
11. Gratitude Gift
Make your lover’s day by taking a minute to do something special. On small strips of paper, write down a few things you love about your partner or jot down a memory that is special to you both. Roll up the love notes and stuff them into the tube. If your partner likes cannabis, wrap the strips of paper around an actual preroll for double the love.
