environmentalism

Ep 92 - Less is More

Humans produce an incredible amount of rubbish, and it causes an incredible amount of damage to our environment and health. Better waste management practices are part of the solution, but waste reduction is just as vital. Sarah Currie-Halpern from Think Zero LLC joins to discuss how our waste is managed, how to improve this system, and how Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations are helping. She emphasizes the importance of waste reduction in both the public and private sectors, and offers tips for how to support these efforts. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 91 - Weaving Change

It's time to change the outdated idea that humans are separate from nature. Bioregioning takes a holistic approach to nature restoration that emphasizes the human connection to the landscapes we inhabit. Sarah Prosser, Weaver and CEO of Bioregioning South East Ireland, joins us to discuss their work and the principles of bioregioning. She shares examples where bioregioning is being successfully implemented, emphasizing the importance of  long-term thinking and a willingness to listen. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 90 - No Paradise with Wolves

Wolves and other apex predators play a critical role in their ecosystems,, but they are often feared and vilified by humans. Katie Stacey explores this tension in her book No Paradise with Wolves. The book follows the journey of Katie and her partner as they restore their farm in Northern Spain, while simultaneously learning about and advocating for protection of the local environment, specifically the Iberian wolf. Katie shares insights from years of conservation storytelling and her lived experiences. Her story is an inspiring example of how humans can coexist with other species, even the "big, bag wolf." Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 89 - Easing into Conservation

When looking to protect land from development, mining and other harmful activities, Conservation Easement Agreements (CEAs) are perhaps one of the most effective methods for permanently protecting private land. Despite their effectiveness, many are not familiar with this method of land protection, so we've brought in Joel Enman from Ontario Farmland Trust to explain how CEAs work. He also discusses why private land conservation is important, and how his and other land trusts are helping landowners maintain ownership of their land while protecting it for future generations. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 88 - A Walk in the Park

In this bonus episode we're joined by Kara Escajeda from Friends of Parrie Haynes Ranch, a park in Central Texas under threat of being closed. Kara discusses the challenges facing the park, and the current state of public land in Texas. She also explains the importance of parks in general for local communities and the environment, and offers tips for how to advocate for green spaces in your area. Resources discussed in this episode: 

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 87 - Ordinary Soil

The negative environmental consequences of industrial food production are well known, but how does this system affect the people producing the food? Alex Woodard joins to discuss his book Ordinary Soil, a story that offers insight into the human impacts of "modern" farming methods. The book covers a broad spectrum of social and environmental issues including soil degradation, toxins, the opioid epidemic, chronic disease, and intergenerational trauma. Trigger warning: suicide and addiction. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 86 - Taking a Shine to Solar

As the cost of renewable energy continues to fall, it has become an attractive alternative to fossil fuels. Solar energy is especially attractive, as it allows consumers to produce energy onsite. Owen Barrett from Shine joins us to discuss the basics of residential solar, and how his company is helping make solar available to multifamily housing units. He also shares his thoughts on the future of the industry, and why he's optimistic it will continue to grow despite continued opposition from the fossil fuel industry. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 85 - Up in the Air

There are many alternatives to fossil fuels, but how do we pick which one(s) to use? Rinaldo Brutoco, Founding President and CEO of the World Business Academy and H2 Clipper, Inc., joins us to discuss why he believes hydrogen is the best choice. Rinaldo explains how hydrogen works and how it's being used today. He also discusses common misconceptions about hydrogen, and why the transition away from fossil fuels could be much easier than we expect. Resources discussed in this episode: 

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 84 - Life Finds a Way

Our planet is home to millions of species, many of which have yet to be discovered. Human activity is threatening an alarming number of these species, resulting in a biodiversity crisis that is drastically impacting human and non-human life. Dr. Debbie Saunders of NatureHelm joins to discuss this crisis and possible solutions. She maintains a hopeful outlook while emphasizing the need for urgent action to protect all life on earth. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

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Ep 83 - The Golden Toad

This month we're joined by Trevor and Kyle Ritland, authors of the new book The Golden Toad: An Ecological Mystery and the Search for a Lost Species. The book explores the mysterious disappearance of the golden toad from its home in Costa Rica, and how Trevor and Kyle's lifelong fascination with the species led them to investigate its disappearance. They discuss this experience and how it fits into the global amphibian crisis that has emerged in recent decades. We also grapple with the implications of species extinctions, and the ecological grief that accompanies it. Resources discussed in this episode:

Have an idea for an episode? You can email host Jennifer Hetzel at sustainablygeeky@gmail.com.

Like the show? Support us at Buy Me a Coffee, and rate/review us wherever you listen.

You can also find us on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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Music by: Peter Emerson Jazz