On many newer engines, the fuel tank is simply vented into the air intake (the idea being that any fuel fumes escaping will be burned by the engine. Haven't seen a gas cap with charcoal in it yet, what brand engine is this?
I don't know about other engines, but I know Briggs and Honda both used them. They were mostly used in the first few years of low emission engines. 2012 was the year that changed the systems the most, with the direct vent lines into the air filter housing with or without the charcoal canister(coffee can type system)