YOUTH

Brain Under Construction

Our brains continue to develop until 25 years of age.

The human brain continues to develop from before birth into our mid-20s and is vulnerable to the effects of addictive substances.

Teens are still growing the endocannabinoid system

• As its name implies, this system comprises the physiological mechanisms that respond to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
• This system is important for cognition, stress response and emotional control

How does cannabis work?

• Cannabis’s signature high comes from a psychoactive component known as THC
• Cannabinoid receptors, located throughout the body are part of the endocannabinoid system
• These receptors are involved in a variety of physiological processes including appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory
• THC can attach to cannabinoid receptors and activate them, disrupting various mental and physical functions
• These receptors play a critical role in the nervous system’s normal functioning, so interfering with it can have profound effects

Illicit Cannabis Market

There is a high environmental cost to growing illegal cannabis. There’s a long list of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers that are used within the illicit market.

What effect do these chemicals have on our wildlife and ecosystem:

• Poisoning of animals that are prey to others
• Fertilizers flowing into our streams and rivers
• Material waste left behind

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