A Little Greener (A Little Greener)
Explore every episode of A Little Greener
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Oct 2021 | Good News from California | 00:22:31 | |
Have you heard the news? Earlier this month, the governor of California signed a number of environmental bills into law. Casey and Sara discuss some of the highlights, including laws aimed at clarity in labelling materials for recycling and composting, and talk about how these laws might have an impact beyond state lines. | |||
| 13 Jan 2023 | The Best Can of Tuna | 01:00:41 | |
Tuna is a popular seafood choice, but the tuna fishing industry has a number of potential environmental impacts. Casey and Sara talk through how you can determine which tuna is a more sustainable choice simply by the information provided right on the can. Resources for this episode: Statista: U.S. Consumption of Tuna National Geographic: How to Pick the Most 'dolphin-safe' Tuna Seafood Watch: Tips for Choosing Sustainable Canned Tuna National Geographic: These Popular Tuna Species are No Longer Endangered Human Rights Watch: Hidden Chains: Rights Abuses and Forced Labor in Thailand's Fishing Industry Investigation finds suspected human rights abuse by suppliers of major US and Taiwanese seafood companyBusiness and Human Rights Resource Centre: Global Labor Justice - International Labor Rights Forum Sues Global Tuna Giant Bumble Bee Over False Advertising of ‘Fair and Safe’ Fishing Practices NPR: Is Sustainable Seafood Really Sustainable? Seafood Watch: Fishing and Farming Methods | |||
| 04 Nov 2021 | Migratory Birds: Part I | 00:46:35 | |
What do you picture when you think of the fall season? Leaves changing color? Cozy sweaters and fires in the fireplace? Depending on where you live, another iconic fall image might be the flying V of a flock of geese overhead. As we enter into the fall season, many bird species, including those Canada geese, are migrating south, where they will hang out during the colder months. On this episode of A Little Greener, prepare to be amazed by our feathered friends as Casey and Sara dive into why and how birds make these epic journeys each year. | |||
| 07 Oct 2021 | 10,000 Tortoises | 01:29:04 | |
In April of 2018, a news story broke about the discovery of 10,000 tortoises being held in terrible conditions in a house in Madagascar. The tortoises, which were primarily radiated tortoises, a critically endangered species, had been collected for likely sale into the pet trade. Thanks to the hard work of conservationists, led by the Turtle Survival Alliance, the tortoises were able to be relocated and cared for with the hope of eventually returning them to the wild. This week, Casey and Sara welcome ALG's first guest: reptile animal care professional, Andrew Ahl. Andrew shares his firsthand account of what it was like to travel to Madagascar to help care for these tortoises. | |||
| 25 Nov 2022 | Talking Turkeys | 00:45:46 | |
Turkey for Thanksgiving dinner is a big tradition in the United States, but how much do you know about the bird itself? Sara and Casey discuss some of the features of the wild turkey and take a look at their conservation success story.
Resources for this episode: The Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Wild Turkey Audubon New York: How Wild Turkeys Made a 49-state Comeback Audubon: Let's Talk Turkey Beards National Wild Turkey Federation: History of the Wild Turkey in North America Florida Fish and Wildlife: Living With Wild Turkeys The Franklin Institute: Did Benjamin Franklin Want the National Bird to be a Turkey? | |||
| 22 Apr 2023 | Greening Up Baby | 01:05:26 | |
Expecting your first child can be an overwhelming time, with so much to acquire, learn, and do before baby arrives. The thought of trying to do all that and be environmentally friendly at the same time might feel like too much, but never fear! Casey and Sara are here to discuss being a little greener with a few aspects of baby care: how to prepare for your baby, how to feed your baby, and, oh yes, how to diaper your baby. Listen for the do's and don'ts of getting secondhand items, how to cut down on microplastics, and whether or not cloth diapers are as eco-friendly (or as scary) as you might think. Resources for this episode: Climate change is making people think twice about having children Environmental Impact of Feeding with Infant Formula in Comparison with Breastfeeding - PMC Disposable Diaper - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics Study: Plastic Baby Bottles Shed Microplastics When Heated. Should You Worry? : Goats and Soda : NPR Life Cycle Assessment of Disposable and Reusable Nappies in the UK | |||
| 17 Feb 2023 | Busting Climate Myths | 00:52:46 | |
Have you ever heard that climate change is a result of solar cycles or volcanoes? Or maybe you've found yourself thinking that it's too late to do anything about climate change anyway, so why bother? Casey and Sara talk through those myths and more, as well as share some tips for having conversations around climate change on this week's episode. Resources for this week's episode: National Grid: Six Myths about Climate Change Busted NASA: Is the Sun Causing Global Warming? NASA: What Do Volcanoes Have to do with Climate Change? WWF: 10 Myths About Climate Change USGS: Volcanoes Can Affect Climate USA Today: These lies about climate change just wouldn't die in 2022 | |||
| 03 Feb 2023 | Zombie Fungus | 00:51:26 | |
With the TV show The Last of Us currently all the rage, Sara and Casey talk the real-life zombie fungus. They discuss how zombie fungus works, what the show gets right and wrong, and whether we should be afraid of a zombie fungus pandemic. They also discuss the amazing diversity of fungi and some of the benefits we get from these often overlooked organisms. Resources for this episode: Discovery: The Largest Living Thing on Earth is a 3.5 sq mi Fungus Smithsonian: The Real Zombie Fungus That Inspired HBO's The Last of Us Vox: The “zombie” fungus in The Last of Us, explained by a biologist National Geographic: Fungi Are Key to Our Survival, Are We Doing Enough to Protect Them? | |||
| 07 Oct 2024 | Sustainability at the Chicago Marathon: A Conversation with Cat Morris | 00:47:47 | |
The Chicago Marathon is one of six World Major Marathons, and this year will host around 50,000 runners from around the world, not to mention the spectators, vendors, and volunteers. So, is it possible for an event of this magnitude to be sustainable? On this episode, Casey and Sara chat with Cat Morris, the Sustainability Manager at Chicago Event Management, overseeing the Chicago Marathon. Hear about how the Chicago Marathon became certified as an Evergreen Inspire event through the Council for Responsible Sport, how waste, from water cups to gel packets, is being diverted from landfills, and how runners and spectators can get involved!
Sara will be running the 2024 Chicago Marathon as part of Team Fox, raising funds for the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. If you'd like to donate to support the Foundation's work to find a cure for Parkinson's, you can donate through Sara's fundraising page here: https://give.michaeljfox.org/fundraiser/5270913
Resources for this episode: Chicago Marathon Sustainability Community Impact through Compost: Chicago Distance Series Instagram: Tina Muir, Chicago Marathon Sustainability Ambassador Instagram: Chicago Marathon Know Before You Go: Sustainability
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| 16 Sep 2021 | Greening Your Vacation | 01:25:09 | |
From transportation to waste to the impact of tourist activities, there are lots of ways that our vacations impact the environment. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take them! Start planning your next getaway as you listen to Casey and Sara discuss some of the things that we can do to make our trips just a little greener. | |||
| 09 Oct 2023 | Coral Part II: Coral Conservation | 00:59:20 | |
Kristen and Sara discuss the threats facing coral reefs around the world, what conservationists are doing to help, and how we can all get involved! Resources for this episode: Visual Feature | Status of Coral Reefs of the World What Florida’s coral bleaching means as high ocean temperatures continue - The Washington Post Warming, acidic oceans may nearly eliminate coral reef habitats by 2100 - AGU Newsroom Extreme Ocean Temperatures Are Affecting Florida’s Coral Reef | NESDIS Coral on the Red List of Endangered Species | FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg Natural Threats to Coral Reefs Crown-of-thorns Starfish - Oceana Five fascinating facts about crown-of-thorns starfish - Great Barrier Reef Foundation Coral Diseases – South Florida Aquatic Environments Threats to Coral Reefs | US EPA Coral Nurseries | Reef Resilience | |||
| 26 Aug 2021 | Minisode: An Even Littler Greener | 00:11:24 | |
With Sara on the road this week, this episode is a quick one. But, take a listen for a couple of updates and additional thoughts on combating food waste, as well as some introductory tips on staying green while on vacation. | |||
| 28 Apr 2022 | Biomimicry: Learning from Nature | 00:43:50 | |
From color change to flight to pulling water from the air, plants and animals have some pretty amazing adaptations. Biomimicry is the idea that we can look to and learn from the natural world to find innovations and solutions to challenges that we might face. On this episode, Sara and Casey discuss favorite animal adaptations and share a few examples of biomimicry in action.
Resources for this episode: Biomimicry: A History (Ohio State University) Butterfly Wings Have a Hidden Structure That Rivals Vantablack in Its Darkness Researching the Kingfisher's Hydrodynamic Design
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| 18 Nov 2022 | How the Moon Impacts Nature | 00:59:22 | |
The moon is a constant in our lives. Most of us have marveled at a full moon, some of us remember when man first walked on the moon, but what we probably don't think about much is how the moon impacts life on Earth. In this episode, Casey and Sara discuss the ways, both large and small, that the moon affects our world. Resources for this episode: Natural History Museum: How Does the Moon Affect Life on Earth? Institute of Physics: How Does the Moon Affect Earth? | |||
| 09 Feb 2024 | The Art of Conservation | 01:00:02 | |
In this reunion episode, Casey returns to the podcast, joining Kristen and Sara in a discussion about the impact of various art forms on the environment, as well as the other ways that art and nature intersect. Nature often inspires art (and might be considered art in and of itself), art often depicts nature, and art can also be used to benefit nature and conservation! Resources for this episode: Physiological Benefits of Viewing Nature: A Systematic Review of Indoor Experiments - PMC Understanding the Hazardous Environmental Impact of Paint Mindful of Its Impact on the Planet, the Art World Aims for Sustainability Meet Abhi; The Charcoal Artist raising Climate Change Awareness | by Abhijeet Shrivastava | Medium Quick Guide: Detox Your Art Studio | Artwork Archive How to Create an Eco-Friendly Art Studio | Artwork Archive Resin Art and Sustainability Backlash | |||
| 08 Jul 2021 | Protecting Marine Mammals | 01:19:38 | |
Whether it's the "cute factor," their intelligence, or the mysterious nature of their lives under the sea, marine mammals capture our attention. Unfortunately, these amazing animals (this group includes everything from sea otters to manatees to whales) also face a wide variety of threats. But there's good news here! This week, Casey and Sara discuss the Marine Mammal Protection Act here in the United States, as well as other international regulations and agreements that are protecting marine mammals worldwide. Show notes for this episode can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/algep115 | |||
| 26 May 2022 | The Future of Cities | 00:55:10 | |
It might be tempting to dismiss cities as nature wastelands, but not only are cities here to stay, and only projected to grow, they actually have some environmental benefits. Sara and Casey discuss the pros and cons of cities, and what we need to do to make cities sustainable in the future.
Resources for this episode: Field Guide to Conservation In Cities (The Nature Conservancy) Cities Aren't the Wildlife Deserts Scientists Once Feared Large Cities Fall Behind in "Neighborhood Biodiversity" How to Tell if You Live in the Suburbs Public Health Reviews: Urbanization, A Problem for the Rich and the Poor? Cities Can Be Part of the Solution in Sustaining Species Plan Melbourne: Inclusive, Vibrant, and Healthy Neighborhoods | |||
| 29 Apr 2021 | Sustainable Forestry | 01:10:55 | |
Learn about the importance of forests and how forests are managed in this week's episode. Casey and Sara discuss sustainable forestry certification systems, the idea of greenwashing, and how we can make more sustainable choices with our paper products. | |||
| 19 Aug 2021 | Food Waste: Part Two | 00:48:34 | |
Continuing on from last week's episode, hosts Casey and Sara discuss how we as consumers can help to reduce food waste. It isn't just about making sure you clean your plate at every meal. Learn how to prep better for shopping trips and avoid unnecessary food purchases, as well as what food expiration dates really mean, and why the way we dispose of our food has an impact on the environment. | |||
| 06 Jul 2024 | Lithium-ion Batteries | 01:06:44 | |
Lithium-ion batteries are found everywhere, from watches to power tools to e-bikes and electric cars. But perhaps you've heard a thing or two about these batteries that make you unsure. This week, Casey and Sara discuss some of the environmental, social justice, and safety issues associated with lithium-ion batteries and how we can look to improve moving forward. Resources for this episode: How Lithium-ion Batteries Work | Department of Energy A Comprehensive Comparative Analysis: Lithium vs Alkaline Batteries - The Earth Awards Safety Risks to Emergency Responders from Lithium-Ion Battery Fires in Electric Vehicles EVs are being set on fire in Ottawa for NRC battery abuse research Electric Car Fires: What You Should Know | Edmunds Deadly fires from phone, scooter batteries leave lawmakers playing catch-up on safety Environmental impact of direct lithium extraction from brines | Nature Reviews Earth & Environment The Environmental Impacts of Lithium and Cobalt Mining How is lithium mined? | MIT Climate Portal Maine Has the Lithium America Needs, But Won't Allow Mining | TIME Society Watch: Across the globe, indigenous rights are being trampled in lithium goldrush | Reuters What Is Thermal Runaway? | UL Research Institutes Their batteries hurt the environment, but EVs still beat gas cars. Here's why This electric car battery takes less than 5 minutes to charge | CNN Business Tribes face an uphill battle to defend their sacred land against lithium mining A fire at a lithium battery factory in South Korea kills 22 mostly Chinese migrant workers | |||
| 02 Sep 2021 | Minisode: Plastics, Packaging, and the Future of Recycling | 00:30:54 | |
What if you could recycle your plastic, metal, and glass waste without ever leaving your home? One company is looking to make this a reality through an in-home recycling appliance. Casey and Sara discuss this, as well as some new Extended Producer Responsibility laws in the United States, in this week's episode. | |||
| 21 Apr 2022 | Finding Hope to Fight Climate Change | 00:56:11 | |
You may have seen or heard about the IPCC climate change reports in the news on a fairly regular basis recently--often connected to talk of climate deadlines and dire warnings. So, what does this mean? Is there hope in the face of climate change? Join Casey and Sara for a discussion on the IPCC, fears, faith, and finding hope to fight climate change.
Resources for this episode: MRSC Local Climate Response Project Scientific American: Climate Report Offers Some Hope but the Need for Action is Urgent Christian Science Monitor: Amid the Gloom of Climate Change there is Hope | |||
| 16 Jun 2022 | Octopodes | 01:11:16 | |
With works like the documentary My Octopus Teacher appearing on Netflix and National Book Award Finalist honors given to Soul of an Octopus, more and more people are coming to appreciate these graceful and intelligent cephalopods. But, what is a cephalopod, you ask, and what is it really that makes the octopus so amazing? And what's the plural of octopus, anyway? Casey and Sara answer all this and more as they geek out over the octopus on this week's episode!
Resources for this episode: Octopuses Keep Surprising Us (The Natural History Museum) Vision and Camouflage (Scientific American) | |||
| 30 Sep 2021 | Innovation and Conservation | 01:17:00 | |
Have you ever heard about a technological solution to an environmental issue that just seemed too good to be true--and then it turns out it was (carbon sucking machines, anyone)? While new innovations in technology might not be enough to stop climate change and protect habitats alone, there are lots of ways that technology is helping us in our fight. This week, Sara and Casey take a look at some new advances, from a paint so white it can make surfaces cooler to 3-D printed calcium carbonate, and discuss the pros and cons of technology in conservation. | |||
| 20 Jan 2023 | A Greener New Year | 00:44:00 | |
Wondering how to be a little greener in your own life this year? Join Sara and Casey for a discussion on making environmental resolutions that you can stick to, their personal eco-resolutions, and podcast goals for 2023...plus, a VERY special announcement! | |||
| 28 Oct 2022 | Not-So-Spooky Spiders | 01:10:40 | |
As Halloween approaches, we take a look at an animal that is sometimes considered spooky: the spider. From "excessive leggy-ness" to powerful venom, Casey and Sara discuss why people might be creeped out by spiders, and whether or not they really deserve their bad reputation (spoiler alert: they don't).
Resources for this episode: National Geographic: Spiders Evolved Spare Legs WSJ: Spiders' Legs are Hydraulic Masterpieces Why 8 Eyes Are Better Than 2 (If You're a Spider) [VIDEO] Scientific American: Fact or Fiction? People Swallow 8 Spiders a Year While they Sleep Eight Fun Facts About Black Widows Penn State Extension: Brown Recluse Spiders Natural History Museum of Utah: Don't Fear the Widow Museums Victoria: Top Spider Myths National Library of Medicine: Black Widow Spider Toxicity UK Entomology: Brown Recluse Spider
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| 05 Apr 2024 | Don't Look Directly at the Sun!! (Animal Behavior and the Solar Eclipse) | 00:53:59 | |
With the total solar eclipse visible over parts of North America in just a few days, Casey and Sara discuss what we know about animal behavior during eclipse events. Listen to find out:
If you are in the path of the eclipse, whether total or partial, you can join North Carolina State University's Solar Eclipse Safari project or take a look at NASA's Eclipse Soundscapes project. And if you are viewing the eclipse, remember to do so safely! Never look directly at the sun! Total Solar Eclipse Safety - NASA Resources for this episode: Researchers to observe how total solar eclipse affects animal behavior | PBS NewsHour 2024 Total Solar Eclipse - NASA Total Eclipse of the Zoo: Animal Behavior during a Total Solar Eclipse - PMC Unlocking the mysteries of animal behavior during cosmic events: IU News Surprising Ways Animals React to Solar Eclipses - National Geographic How Do Animals Respond to a Total Solar Eclipse? | Scientific American Animals act weirdly during an eclipse. Help NASA find out why | CNN | |||
| 11 Nov 2022 | Fall Foliage | 00:42:46 | |
We're well into the fall season here in the northern hemisphere, so Sara and Casey take a look at what causes those brilliant fall colors, and why trees lose their leaves in the fall, anyway. Resources for this episode: National Weather Service: Why Do We Have Seasons? Young People's Trust for the Environment: Why Do Trees Lose Their Leaves in Winter? Three Rivers Parks: Why Do Leaves Change Color in Fall? Three Rivers Parks: Why Do Some Trees Keep Their Leaves Through Winter? Forestry and Land Scotland: Why Do Trees Lose Their Leaves? University of Florida: Florida Fall Color WCJB: Where to Find Fall Colors in NCFL
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| 09 Jun 2022 | Frog Watch | 00:56:59 | |
Frogs and toads are an incredibly diverse group of animals. They're found nearly everywhere around the world, are a critical component of the food web, and are valuable environmental indicators. On this episode, learn how you can get involved in frog conservation (and have some fun) by learning the unique calls of the frogs in your area.
Resources for this episode: Frog and Toad Calls, Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative (USGS): calls used in episode FrogID: citizen science program in Australia Frog Fact SheetThe FrogID dataset: expert-validated occurrence records of Australia’s frogs collected by citizen scientists | |||
| 06 May 2021 | The Water Cycle | 01:04:49 | |
Where does our drinking water come from? Where does it go? Can water really be wasted? How can we protect the water supply for us and for nature? Casey and Sara discuss all this, and more, on this week's episode. | |||
| 31 Aug 2024 | Rocky Mountain Adventures | 00:56:24 | |
This week, Casey and Sara recap Sara's first trip to the Rocky Mountains, covering everything from road trip musings on land use to wildfires to amazing wildlife encounters! Resources for this episode: Natural Features & Ecosystems - Rocky Mountain National Park (U.S. National Park Service) | |||
| 29 Jul 2021 | Greening Your Bathroom Routine | 01:16:40 | |
One way to make your lifestyle a little greener is to focus on one area at a time to see what changes make sense for you. This week, Casey and Sara zero in on the bathroom. From showers to shaving and toothpaste to toilet paper, they discuss ways to reduce water and electricity and suggest some sustainable swaps that might work for your routine. | |||
| 17 Feb 2022 | Invasive Species | 01:04:40 | |
What's the difference between a non-native species and an invasive species? Why does it matter if a species ends up outside of its native range? What does Shakespeare have to do with any of this? And what on earth are Eco-Men in Black? Find answers to all of this and more in this week's episode. Resources for this episode: Definition of invasive species: https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/what-are-invasive-species Burmese python introduction to Florida: https://www.history.com/news/burmese-python-invasion-florida-everglades General information on invasive species: https://www.history.com/news/invasive-species-list-mammals-birds-aquatic https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Threats-to-Wildlife/Invasive-Species | |||
| 09 Dec 2021 | The Greenest Christmas Tree | 00:57:54 | |
Real tree or fake tree, what should you get? Join hosts Casey and Sara as they settle the Great Christmas tree debate once and for all! OK, not really, but on this week's episode, you'll definitely find some great information about the pros and cons of fresh-cut vs. artificial trees, as well as some lesser-known options that might work for you. | |||
| 22 Apr 2021 | A Slacker's Guide to Sustainability | 01:01:20 | |
This week, Casey and Sara chat about the history and importance of Earth Day, and discuss a few ways to live a little greener while saving yourself some work at the same time! Plus, Casey shares her thoughts on the documentary Seaspiracy. | |||
| 09 Sep 2022 | Coming Next Week on A Little Greener... | 00:01:31 | |
Casey and Sara tease next week's very special episode of A Little Greener: an interview with climate journalist and co-author of the new book, The Big Fix: Seven Practical Steps to Save Our Planet, Justin Gillis. | |||
| 10 Jun 2021 | Wildlife and Roads | 01:17:27 | |
Why did the turtle cross the road? Well, probably to find a mate, nesting site, or to get back home. Unfortunately, crossing roads is no joke for wildlife and can have a big impact on a wide variety of species. This week, Casey and Sara discuss how roads affect wildlife and some ways that we can try to reduce the impact. Sara also shares a review of the Netflix documentary Chasing Coral. | |||
| 12 Aug 2023 | This Barbie is Eco-friendly? | 00:49:18 | |
With all the hype around Barbie these past few weeks, Sara and Kristen decided to take a look at the environmental impact of the iconic doll--and some of our other toys, as well. Listen in as they chat about their favorite Barbies, the challenges of plastic, and how to balance our desire to give the kids in our lives the things that they want and still be a little greener. Resources for this episode: (From intro) Nuclear fusion breakthrough repeated by lab | Fortune (From intro) Tour de Turtles Barbie Sustainability | Mattel Barbie and the Problem With Plastic - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace Plastic Pollution Facts and Issues | The Problems With Plastic In Our Real World, Barbie’s Plastic Is Not So Fantastic Life in Plastic, It's Not Fantastic - Earth Day Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Mattel launches sustainable new Barbie Loves the Ocean range My Kids Want Plastic Toys. I Want to Go Green. Here's the Middle Ground | |||
| 25 Mar 2023 | The Price of Chocolate | 00:58:28 | |
Chocolate is a much beloved treat around the world, but chocolate can have some high environmental costs. By some calculations, chocolate can have a higher environmental impact that some types of meat. Sara and Casey discuss why that is, and what small steps we can take to make our chocolate a little greener. Resources for this episode: Mongabay: Delectable but Destructive: Tracing Chocolate's Environmental Life Cycle Science of Cooking: How is Chocolate Made? World Cocoa Foundation: Cocoa and Forests Initiative Study: The Impacts of Cocoa Sustainability Initiatives in West Africa CABI: Trade-offs between shaded and full-sun cocoa Utopia: The Difference Between Cacao and Cocoa Explained Lake Champlain Chocolates: How is Chocolate Made? | |||
| 25 May 2024 | Can Artificial Intelligence Save the Planet? | 01:09:59 | |
What do you think of when you hear the phrase "artificial intelligence?" Does chatGPT or Alexa come to mind? Do you imagine robots taking over the world? What might not immediately come to mind are things like biodiversity preservation, green energy optimization, and water conservation, but AI is in fact being used in all these areas and more. Casey and Sara take a look at some of the ways AI is or has the potential to be used in the conservation realm and also explore some of the challenges with AI as a conservation tool. Resources for this episode: A.I.’s ‘Her’ Era Has Arrived - The New York Times Saving our Planet’s Biodiversity with AI | Ganes Kesari | TEDxAsburyPark ASC Science Sundays - Tanya Berger-Wolf: AI for Wildlife Conservation How artificial intelligence is helping tackle environmental challenges Tackling climate change with machine learning | MIT Sloan Artificial Intelligence to Help Prevent Extinction? | Wildlife.ai: Conservation Charity tinyML Talks: Efficient AI for Wildlife Conservation Seven ways utilities are exploring AI for the grid | Latitude Media Why AI and energy are the new power couple – Analysis - IEA AI for the grid has potential, DOE says — but comes with pitfalls | Latitude Media How AI Is Cropping Up In The Agriculture Industry US farms are making an urgent push into AI. It could help feed the world Artificial Intelligence Can Prevent Enormous Amounts Of Damage And Water Loss From Building Leaks AI and Water: Pioneering Solutions for a Thirsty Planet AI to stop water pollution before it happens Hundreds of sewage leaks detected thanks to AI
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| 10 Mar 2023 | All About the Elephant Shrew | 00:43:52 | |
If you look at a picture of an elephant shrew, you might assume that it's perfectly named. It certainly looks similar to shrews found in many parts of the world and has an elongated nose, reminiscent of an elephant's trunk. While the elephant shrew was initially grouped in with shrews, we now know that it is actually NOT a true shrew. Elephant shrews (now also called sengis) are, in fact, most closely related to...elephants! Sara and Casey discuss these very cute, slightly obscure animals and encourage us to keep small species in mind on this week's episode. Resources for this episode: Tiny Elephant Shrews Go On Show After Mum Hid Them From Zookeepers Journal of Anatomy: The rostral nasal anatomy of two elephant shrews. Mammalia: Footdrumming patterns of southern African elephant shrews Animal Diversity Web: Macroscelididae
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| 14 Apr 2022 | Energy 101 | 01:01:40 | |
Fossil fuels provide the bulk of our energy supply today, but how did we get to this point? What other options are out there? Join Sara and Casey for a quick history of energy and a closer look at where we get the energy that powers our daily lives. To complete your weekly challenges, visit: eGRID Power Profiler: https://www.epa.gov/egrid/power-profiler#/ US Energy Mapping System: https://www.eia.gov/state/maps.php
Resources for this episode: Energy timelines: https://alternativeenergy.procon.org/historical-timeline/ https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-017-07506-z Data from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine: http://needtoknow.nas.edu/energy/energy-use/home-work/ http://needtoknow.nas.edu/energy/energy-sources/ Power grid information and eGRID: https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/how-does-us-power-grid-work#chapter-title-0-2
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| 08 Apr 2023 | Should We Free Tokitae? | 01:18:32 | |
The Dolphin Company, owner of the Miami Seaquarium, recently announce plans to release an orca from the Sequarium back into the wild. Many headlines suggest this is a positive story, and indeed, a whale returning to the wild and rejoining their family would be amazing to see. But, is it reality? Sara and Casey discuss the issues surrounding this particular whale, Tokitae, often called Toki, as well as some of the issues surrounding keeping orcas in human care. Resources for this episode: Scientists: End of orca program a loss Orcas Don't Do Well in Captivity. Here's Why - National Geographic Here's why SeaWorld probably won't release its whales into the wild - Los Angeles Times Tooth damage in captive orcas (Orcinus orca) - ScienceDirect Public Display of Marine Mammals | NOAA Fisheries Cetaceans in Captivity: A Discussion of Welfare - 1999 AVMA Animal Welfare Forum National Aquarium - Dolphin Sanctuary At Baltimore's National Aquarium, Climate Change Presents Challenges Inside And Out : NPR Release of whales from notorious Russia ‘whale jail’ complete - National Geographic miami-seaquarium-inspection-report - DocumentCloud Something Rotten at the Miami Seaquarium - International Marine Mammal Project PolitiFact | SeaWorld says their whales live as long as wild whales do Towards understanding the welfare of cetaceans in accredited zoos and aquariums - PMC Take Action for Southern Resident Killer Whales | NOAA Fisheries | |||
| 23 Nov 2024 | Florida State Park Shenanigans | 00:55:39 | |
Unless you're living in Florida, you may have missed out on the fallout from a proposed development plan involving nine of Florida's state parks. Casey and Sara discuss the whole situation, from the problems with the proposals to the odd secrecy around the plan to the fallout--and share some lessons that we can all take from the situation to help make our voices heard to protect the planet. Resources for this episode Florida State Parks Threatened by Development https://floridawildlifefederation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1-Overview.jpg Legislation Scrapped in 2011 Offers Clues to How Florida Might Fund ‘Great Outdoors’ Initiative) State offers more details on plan to revamp parks including in South Florida DeSantis' plan to develop state parks faces setback as golf course backer pulls out | AP News Audubon Protects Florida State Parks from Development Proposals | |||
| 09 Mar 2024 | Herbicides | 01:09:58 | |
Pulling weeds around the yard isn't most people's idea of a good time. Busting out a spray bottle of herbicide might be the easy way out, but what's the price we pay for that? Casey and Sara discuss the use of herbicides in agriculture and urban areas, including the recent news surrounding the use of dicamba.
Resources for this episode: Protecting Pollinators from Herbicides: Rethinking Weed Management at Home How to use herbicides to safely control weeds on farms | OSU Extension Service Different pesticides dominate in different land-use areas Video: Herbicides: A Double-Edged Sword? What We Know about Herbicide Impacts on Pollinators History of Weed Control in the United States and Canada Herbicide Use in the Era of Farm to Fork: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Future Implications - PMC New Study: Agricultural Pesticides Cause Widespread Harm to Soil Health, Threaten Biodiversity Weed Management in Lawns Guidelines--UC IPMBee Precaution Pesticide Ratings | |||
| 24 Jun 2023 | Local Conservation Resources | 00:47:45 | |
We often think about conservation on either the global scale (climate change!) or on a personal level (sustainable swaps!), but community-based, local conservation is an extremely important piece of the puzzle. This week, our guest co-host, and Soil and Water Conservation District professional, Kristen, talks us through the history and roles of SWCDs and touches on some other local conservation resources you might not have known that you have! Resources for this episode: Non-farmers bumped from Florida's soil and water conservation district boards | |||
| 11 Nov 2021 | Migratory Birds: Part II | 01:07:02 | |
After marveling at migration in Part I, Casey and Sara are back for another discussion on migratory birds; this time focusing on the challenges of making these yearly trips and how we can help them along the way. | |||
| 18 Jul 2023 | Is there Conflict Between Honey Bees and Wild Bees? A Discussion with Jon Elmquist | 01:16:22 | |
With increased awareness of bee pollinators and the value of their conservation over recent years, there has been growing discussion (and controversy!) over the nature of the relationships between managed western honey bees (Apis mellifera) and wild bees. In this episode, Kristen and Sara chat with entomologist Jon Elmquist, who shares the current evidence for conflict between managed honey bees and wild bees and the implications this may have for bee conservation efforts. Along the way you'll learn how Jon got interested in pollinators and conservation, some of the differences between honey bees and wild bees, and hear about some of the amazing native bee species in North America. Resources for this episode: | |||
| 05 Aug 2022 | Color in Nature | 00:50:07 | |
Sara and Casey take a look at how animals perceive color and discuss the purposes of color and patterns in nature.
Resources for this episode: UK research shows how to build more effective monarch butterfly gardens The Eyes and Vision of Butterflies Optimizing Countershading Camouflage The 'Why' of a Leopard's Spots
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| 30 Jun 2022 | A (Little) Greener Wedding | 01:06:04 | |
A wedding is a big event for many people, but if you're looking for a way to keep your big day from having a big environmental impact, there are lots of options out there for you! And even if you're not planning a wedding, Casey and Sara discuss some of the was we can be a little greener participants and attendees.
Resources for this episode: Wildlife Friendly Wedding Guide (Center for Biological Diversity) | |||
| 02 Dec 2022 | 69% Less Wildlife? | 00:50:11 | |
You may have seen recent headlines about the loss of 69% of wildlife from 1970. This data comes from a World Wildlife Fund project called The Living Planet Index, which comes out every two year. Casey and Sara take a look at the report, highlighting what it shows, what it doesn't, what the major areas of concern are, and where we go from here. Resources for this episode: A Deep Dive into the Living Planet Index National Geographic: Wildly Misinterpreted Report Still Shows Catastrophic Animal Decline (2018) | |||
| 06 May 2023 | The Willow Project | 00:58:06 | |
The Willow Project is an oil drilling project set to begin in the National Petroleum Reserve in northern Alaska--albeit in a scaled down version of the original plan. Casey and Sara explore the history of the project, look at the environmental impacts, and discuss the challenges of breaking free from fossil fuels. Resources for this episode: Q&A: Willow oil project and Arctic drilling limits Alaska's Willow oil project is controversial. Here's why. | AP News What is the Willow project? The Alaska oil drilling debate, explained. - The Washington Post Interior Department Substantially Reduces Scope of Willow Project Willow drilling: How will it affect polar bears?
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| 03 Mar 2023 | The Ohio Train Derailment | 00:49:54 | |
On February 3rd, a train owned by Norfolk Southern Railroad was traveling from Madison, Illinois to Conway, PA, when it derailed near the town of East Palestine, Ohio. Some cars on the train were carrying hazardous materials, and ultimately this resulted in the temporary evacuation of residents near the derailment site, and continued monitoring of air and water quality. Casey and Sara discuss some of the potential factors involved in the derailment and safety concerns associated with the materials, as well as their thoughts around railroad safety and the press received by this event. Resources for this episode: EPA Letter to Norfolk Southern NY Times: Ohio Train Derailment: Separating Fact from Fiction Huff Post: Animal Deaths Calculated at 43,700 Following Train Derailment in East Palestine NPR: 7 Key Points about the East Palestine Train Derailment NPR: How EPA Plans To Keep East Palestine Residents Safe After Derailment AP: Buttigieg Warns Norfolk Southern to Support Ohio Community NY Times: In Fog of East Palestine’s Crisis, Politicians Write Their Own Stories AP: EPA Orders Norfolk Southern to Clean Up Toxic Derailment | |||
| 29 Jul 2022 | Monarch Butterflies | 01:10:34 | |
If you're asked to picture a butterfly, odds are the image that springs to mind pretty quickly is of the beautiful orange-and-black monarch. Despite being so well known and loved, the population of migrating monarch butterflies has been declining over recent decades, leading to their recent classification of endangered on the IUCN Red List. This week, Casey and Sara break down the amazing life cycle of monarch butterflies, discuss the factors perpetuating the population decline, and share what everyone living in migrating monarch range can do to help.
Resources for this episode: US Forest Service: Monarch Butterfly Migration | |||
| 22 Jul 2022 | The Environmental Protection Agency | 01:09:30 | |
Sara and Casey take a look at the history of the United States' Environmental Protection Agency, and explore the recent Supreme Court decision in the case of West Virginia v. EPA.
Resources for this episode: Reorganization Plan No. 3 of 1970 (Nixon's message to Congress) EPA: The Basics of the Regulatory Process Laws and Executive Orders Related to the EPA EPA Denies Petition to Regulate Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Motor Vehicles (2003) Supreme Court Opinion on West Virginia v EPA The Atlantic: How the U.S. Protects the Environment, from Nixon to Trump The Atlantic: The Supreme Court's EPA Ruling is Going to be Very, Very Expensive The Future of Federal Agency Rulemakings After West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency | |||
| 24 Mar 2022 | One Year Greener | 00:43:45 | |
Casey and Sara discuss the joys, challenges, and impacts of the first year of A Little Greener and take a look at where the podcast is headed in the future. | |||
| 08 Jun 2024 | Should We Eradicate Mosquitoes? | 01:11:45 | |
Mosquitoes are common flying insect that inhabit all continents except Antarctica. There are over 3500 species of mosquitoes worldwide, but only somewhere between 6 and 9.3% bite humans and are disease vectors. That said, mosquitos are the deadliest animal on the planet, thanks to their role as a vector for disease. So, would we be better off getting rid of this pesky insect? Casey and Sara discuss the role of mosquitos in the environment, the pros and cons of eradication, and why mosquito gut bacteria is more important than you might expect! Resources for this episode: Why Are Some People Tastier to Mosquitoes Than Others? | Pfizer Can Garden Plants Really Repel Mosquitoes? - Consumer Reports. Invasive Mosquitoes - Birds Not Mosquitoes Aedes communis: The Pollinating Mosquito. Millions of Mosquitoes Will Rain Down on Hawaii to Save an Iconic Bird | Scientific American | |||
| 31 Mar 2022 | Greener Gardening | 01:15:36 | |
Whether you're growing food, planting for pollinators, or creating a landscape for curb appeal, gardening is an activity that helps us to get outdoors and get connected to nature. How we garden and what we put in our gardens also has an impact on our local environment. This week Casey and Sara discuss tips and tactics for becoming a greener gardener. | |||
| 16 Dec 2022 | Red Pandas | 00:57:42 | |
If we asked you to think of a cute, furry, bamboo-eating animal, we suspect a certain black and white bear might come to mind. But, this week, we're talking about another panda. The red panda shares a name and some other characteristics with the more famous giant panda, but is actually a very unique species. Casey and Sara discuss why the red panda is actually the OG panda, the pros and cons of being incredibly cute, and why we should care about the conservation of this species. Resources for this episode: ‘Fake market’: Red panda study finds no real demand behind rise in poaching | |||
| 20 May 2023 | Should We Farm Rhinos? | 01:08:32 | |
The state of rhinos around the world is precarious. At worst, rhino species are critically endangered, and even the species with the largest population, the white rhino is still classified as near threatened by IUCN, and their population is declining. Despite protection and education efforts, the threat of poaching for their horn looms large over all species of rhinos. So, where do we go from here? Casey and Sara look at what drives the rhino horn trade and discuss the pros and cons of an outside the box solution--rhino farming. Resources for this episode: World's Largest Rhino Farm in South Africa for Sale--Business Insider The horns of a dilemma: Ethical questions about legalising rhino horn trade RHINO HORN CONSUMERS, WHO ARE THEY? | Traffic.org Is the rhino horn trade a cartel? Economic analysis suggests it works like one Did a Legal Ivory Sale Increase Smuggling and Poaching? | NBER Legalizing ivory trade won't save elephants, study concludes | Science | AAAS After legal-ivory experiment, black markets thrive from greater demand, less risk iucncsg.org - Farming and the Crocodile Industry Combating rhino horn demand in Vietnam | African Wildlife Foundation
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| 20 Jan 2022 | An Introduction to Composting | 01:05:56 | |
Composting is a great way to help improve soil quality and reduce waste going to landfill, while cutting out some greenhouse gas emissions in the process. However, it can feel a little overwhelming to get started! Join Casey and Sara as they discuss the what, why, and how of composting and give you some steps to get started composting in your own home.
Resources for this episode: The Finished Product: benefits of composting and a look at how to use the finished product The Lazy Gardener's Guide to Compost: a reminder that our composting system doesn't have to be perfect to work Composting 101: a comprehensive overview, including the information on San Francisco's composting success Compost Basics: a great infographic on what and how to compost Composting: summary article with charts on greens/browns and choosing a composter What's the Difference Between Hot, Cold, and Warm Composting? | |||
| 22 Jul 2021 | Minisode: Updates on Life and News | 00:10:49 | |
Has your week been as hectic as ours? This week, Casey and Sara take a break from full-length episodes to bring you some life updates and share some recent news related to past episodes. Take a few minutes to relax and enjoy our first "minisode" and don't forget to get some time in nature this week! | |||
| 01 Apr 2023 | PFAS Explained | 00:47:09 | |
You may have seen or heard the acronym PFAS floating around, or perhaps heard of "forever chemicals." Or maybe you've heard that there are some potential concerns with using non-stick cookware, but weren't sure what it was all about. Around since the 1940s, PFAS are used in a variety of ways including in non-stick cookware, stain, grease, and water-resistant clothing, some firefighting foam, and some cosmetics. However, there are a number of concerns around these chemicals, some of which have already been phased out of discussion. Casey and Sara discuss the issues around and potential paths forward from PFAS. Resources for this episode: PFAS chemicals overview | ATSDR PFAS in the US population | ATSDR Toxic timeline: A brief history of PFAS | Searchlight New Mexico Authorized Uses of PFAS in Food Contact Applications | FDA Governments endorse global PFOA ban, with some exemptions Environmental and Health Impacts of PFAS | | Wisconsin DNR PFAS Foam on Lakes and Streams Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) | US EPA Consumers file class action lawsuits over PFAS in products; EPA focuses on water, landfills
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| 07 Apr 2022 | What’s the Deal with Dairy? | 00:52:46 | |
If you're searching for ways to live a little greener, one of the suggestions you'll likely come across is to reduce your dairy intake. This week, Sara and Casey discuss the environmental impacts of dairy and consider the pros and cons of some of the available alternatives. Resources for this episode: How Dairy Milk has Improved its Environmental and Climate Impact (UC Davis) GHG Emissions by Livestock (UN FAO) Dairy Vs. Plant-Based Milk: What are the Environmental Impacts (Our World in Data) Nutrient Density of Beverages in Relation to Climate Impact Milking the Planet (Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy) Should I Give Up Dairy Because of Climate Change? What Plant Milk Should I Drink?
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| 10 Jun 2023 | Exploring Under the Sea | 00:52:25 | |
In order to protect the planet, we have to care about it. And pop culture can sometimes help make nature more relatable and accessible. With that in mind, Sara and our amazing new guest co-host, Kristen, have some fun discussing the real-world counterparts to the sidekicks in the new live action version of The Little Mermaid. Resources for this episode: Snopes: Myths, Manatees, and Mermaids Northern Gannet Life History, All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology Northern Gannet - American Bird Conservancy NatGeo: Flounders' Eyes Face Skyward, How Do They See the Ocean Floor? Fast Facts About Flounder - Ocean Conservancy | |||
| 18 Nov 2021 | Frozen: Wildlife in Winter | 00:52:03 | |
Winter is coming, and whether you love it or hate it, you can't deny that without heat, shelter, and warm clothing, winter would be pretty rough, if not downright dangerous. So, how do our wildlife neighbors make it through the season without freezing? Sara and Casey break down the possibilities. If you've ever wondered where your chipmunks go in the winter or worried about a bird's feet in the cold, this episode is for you! | |||
| 03 Feb 2022 | Digging In To Composting | 00:55:18 | |
Although composting might feel overwhelming at first, it's really a simple process, and most issues that might arise have a simple solution. This week, Sara and Casey discuss some common composting questions and concerns, like dealing with smelly compost, protecting your pile from unwanted guests, and how to compost (or not) in the winter. Resources: Earth 911: Composting Cheat Sheet Farmer's Almanac: Trench Composting UC Master Gardeners of Monterey Bay: 7 Solutions to Common Compost Problems Planet Natural: Troubleshooting Composting Problems Gardening: Knowhow: How to Fix Bad Smelling Compost Honestly Modern: Carbon Emission Analysis of the Vitamix FoodCycler | |||
| 29 Jul 2023 | Amazing Aardvarks! | 00:47:57 | |
Kristen and Sara chat about one of Kristen's favorite animals, the aardvark! Learn about the behavior and adaptations of this unique African mammal, the conservation issues they face, and what on Earth aardvarks have to do with cucumbers. Resources for this episode: Carnegie Museum of Natural History: A is for Aardvark | |||
| 16 Dec 2021 | Reindeer: Myth and Reality | 00:55:25 | |
Around this time of year, there is no end to the movies, songs, stories, and images, featuring Santa and his sleigh, pulled by his flying reindeer. Reindeer have become so closely tied with the holiday season and the mythology of Santa Claus (at least in some parts of the world) that some people aren't aware they are real animals! But how did reindeer come to be associated with Christmas? What are reindeer really like? This week, Sara and Casey discuss the myth and reality of reindeer, including the real-life practice of reindeer herding still practiced in some indigenous cultures today. | |||
| 05 Aug 2021 | Minisode: Faster, Higher...Greener? | 00:37:00 | |
With the Olympics in full swing, Sara and Casey take a look at some of the sustainability efforts made for the 2020(one) Tokyo Games. They also discuss a recent study on the sustainability of the Olympic games since 1992 and explore what steps might be taken to make this major global event a little greener moving forward. Resources used in this episode can be found here: tinyurl.com/algep119 | |||
| 15 Jul 2022 | Energy Series: Coal | 01:10:41 | |
Although coal has played an important role in the history of our country, it has some health and environmental impacts that are difficult to ignore. In this episode, Casey and Sara continue their series on energy and take a look at the pros and cons of coal, and the state of the coal industry in the United States today.
Resources for this episode: US Energy Information Administration: Coal Explained Forbes: Renewable Energy Prices Hit Record Lows EPA: Sources of Greenhouse Gas Emissions | |||
| 09 Dec 2022 | Wind Energy | 00:54:22 | |
Our series on energy continues as Sara and Casey discuss wind energy. They focus on a couple of specific concerns, especially the impact that wind farms have on birds on bats, and how or if this should impact our use of wind energy moving forward. Resources for this episode: Onshore vs Offshore Wind Energy University of Michigan: Wind Energy Factsheet American Bird Conservancy: How Many Birds are Killed by Wind Turbines? American Bird Conservancy: Wind Risk Assessment Map Audubon: Can Painting Wind Turbine Blades Black Really Save Birds? NREL: Partnerships Explore Coexistence of Bats and Wind Farms | |||
| 20 Apr 2024 | Who Gets the Trees? | 00:57:04 | |
Trees help give us clean air to breathe, keep us cool, and can even benefit our mental health. But not everyone has equal access to trees. In this week's episode, Casey and Sara discuss the benefits (and challenges) of urban trees and take a look at the factors involved in tree disparity across different neighborhoods. Resources for this episode: The Inequitable Distribution of Urban Trees Tree Equity Score National Explorer Public Health Benefits of Urban Trees Urban Trees and Human Health: A Scoping Review Green gentrification in European and North American cities | Nature Communications Ten-Year Urban Forestry Action Plan: 2016 -2026 50 years after being outlawed, redlining still drives neighborhood health inequities. Urban and Community Forestry Grants - 2023 Grant Awards | US Forest Service | |||
| 13 Jan 2022 | Cheetah Conservation | 00:58:24 | |
Join Casey and special guest-host, Kristen Latzke, co-founder of the Indiana Chapter of the Cheetah Conservation Fund, for a discussion about cheetahs. With an estimated population of only about 7,000 individuals, cheetahs need our help. Learn about the challenges these animals face, the work being done to protect them, and how you can get involved.
Links for this week's episode:
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| 24 Feb 2023 | Climate Proxy Data | 00:44:45 | |
Articles on climate change will often talk about carbon dioxide levels being higher than they've been in thousands, or even millions, of years. You may also hear things about temperature moving in cycles, or about how different the climate of a certain area used to be. But how do scientists know all of this information before we started taking measurements? That's where proxy data comes in. On this episode, we discuss a few different types of proxy data, learn some new words, and find out just what crystalized rat urine can tell us about climate. Resources for this episode: NASA: Carbon Dioxide Vital Signs NASA: The Raw Truth on Global Temperature Records MIT: How are Gases in the Atmosphere Measured? British Antarctic Survey: Ice Cores and Climate Change Scientific American: How are Past Temperatures Determined from Ice Cores? Texas A&M: Ancient Deepsea Shells Reveal 66 Million Years of Carbon Dioxide Levels NOAA's Paleoclimatology Data Map
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| 01 Jul 2021 | Plastics 101: The Good, The Bad, and The Future | 01:13:09 | |
Unless you've been living under a rock for the past several years, you've likely heard a thing or two about plastic pollution. This week, Sara and Casey discuss why plastics receive so much attention from conservation and environmental groups and look ahead to what the future of plastic production might be like. Casey also gives us a review of the OXO .75 gallon compost bin, and your hosts discuss some of their favorite sustainable lifestyle changes. Show notes for the episode can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/algep114 | |||
| 09 Sep 2023 | The Secret Lives of Coral | 00:41:29 | |
When we think of coral most of us probably think of giant, colorful reef structures. But there's so much more to coral! We take a deeper look at the tiny animals that make up those reefs--and that can be found beyond those reefs, as well. Video for Weekly Challenge: Lens of Time: Corals in Motion
Resources for this episode: NOAA CoRIS - What are Coral Reefs All About Soft Corals - Ocean Conservancy Coral Polyp Anatomy - Coral Disease & Health Consortium Did you know: How do corals form colonies? Coral Reef Ecosystems in the Deep Sea | |||
| 29 Apr 2023 | Cleaning Up Concrete | 00:42:17 | |
Chances are you've heard about the environmental impacts of plastics and how air travel contributes to climate change, but did you know that there's a man-made substance that contributes more than double the emissions of the aviation industry? It's estimated that up to 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions is from the concrete industry--and this is mainly due to the production of cement, an essential ingredient in concrete. Sara and Casey discuss what needs to be done to clean up concrete on this 100th episode of A Little Greener! Resources for this episode: The Big Fix: Seven Practical Steps to Save Our Planet by Hal Harvey and Justin Gillis Cement vs. Concrete: A Case of Mistaken Identities Explained: Cement vs. concrete — their differences, and opportunities for sustainability | MIT News Concrete: the most destructive material on Earth | Cities | The Guardian MIT Researchers Develop New Additives For "Green" Concrete - CleanTechnica PPE Waste Makes Stronger, More Flexible, Green Concrete Heat Island Compendium | US EPA Want To Build A Carbon Neutral Skyscraper? Easy: Just Don't Use Cement. Good Luck With That | Digg Materials scientist working to revolutionize concrete and radically reduce CO2 emissions Countering climate change with cool pavements | MIT News
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| 08 Dec 2024 | Meet the Moose | 00:57:35 | |
After being side characters in two episodes (Rocky Mountain Adventures and White-tailed Deer), it's time for moose to step into the spotlight! Casey and Sara discuss what makes moose special, the tangled web of moose population control, conservation, and climate change, and why in the world the plural of moose isn't "meese."
The two articles referenced in the last portion of the show are: How Should Colorado Handle Its Booming Moose Population? | Smithsonian Do Moose “Belong” in Colorado?
Additional resources for this episode: Moose Research in Rocky Mountain National Park Species Spotlight - Moose (U.S. National Park Service) Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Moose Survey Moose Research | Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department As New England Winters Warm, Ticks are Killing Moose at High Rates | Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)
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| 03 Jun 2021 | Why We Love Bats | 01:20:47 | |
On the 10th episode of ALG, Sara and Casey discuss why they love bats--and why you should, too! Learn about some of the unique traits of bats, discover how these furry fliers benefit the environment, and get introduced to "the happy bat." Casey also gives a review of the book Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery. You can find some of the resources for this episode here: https://tinyurl.com/algep110 | |||
| 24 Jun 2021 | Building a Sustainable Closet | 01:17:31 | |
When you put together an outfit, you're probably thinking about things like the fit, the feel, and the functionality, and not so much the environmental impact. But, the production and disposal of our clothing contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and human rights issues, among other things. This week, Casey and Sara talk about the impacts of "fast fashion" and how to reduce, reuse, rethink, and recycle our way to a more sustainable (but still fashionable) wardrobe. Sara also shares a review of the Seek app. Some of the resources used for this episode can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/algep113 | |||
| 27 May 2023 | Parental Care in the Animal Kingdom | 00:52:25 | |
Parental care in the animal kingdom takes a variety of forms. Who are the gold star parents and who never even sees their kids? Do animals babysit? And do quakkas really throw their babies? Resources for this episode: Parental Care - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics Patterns of parental care in vertebrates Humans aren’t the only ones that help out their adult kids — here’s why animals do it too | One Thing They Aren't: Maternal - The New York Times Why Some Animals Forgo Reproduction in Complex Societies | American Scientist Seven Super Mums of the animal kingdom | Pursuit by The University of Melbourne Professor Allen J. Moore - Uncovering The Evolutionary Origins Of Parental Care • scientia.global | |||
| 23 Mar 2024 | North Atlantic Right Whales | 01:01:46 | |
Join Casey and Sara for a discussion on the North Atlantic right whale. Learn where you can find these amazing animals, why they're called "right" whales, and what we can do to help save this incredibly endangered species. Resources for this episode: Reducing Vessel Strikes to North Atlantic Right Whales | NOAA Fisheries North Atlantic Right Whale | NOAA Fisheries We know how to save the endangered North Atlantic right whale. Why aren’t we? - Vox IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Female North Atlantic right whales growing smaller, leading to fewer births North Atlantic Right Whale Calving Season 2024 | NOAA Fisheries Maine fishing rope found in dead North Atlantic right whale | National Fisherman | |||
| 04 Oct 2022 | E-waste Recycling: An Interview with John Shegerian | 00:42:37 | |
While electronic waste (or e-waste) isn't the largest percentage of our solid waste stream, it is a quickly growing one, and one with large environmental impacts. Electronics contain hazardous materials that can leach into the environment when disposed in landfills. Materials used in electronic devices can also be mined in areas that provide critical wildlife habitat. One way that we can combat these issues is by properly recycling electronics. This week, Casey and Sara chat with John Shegerian, the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of the e-waste recycling company, ERI (eridirect.com), to learn about the challenges of e-waste, how we can safely recycle our electronics, and what the future of e-waste recycling looks like. | |||
| 17 Jun 2021 | Insect Apocalypse? | 01:18:31 | |
While insects might not be high on the list of favorite animals for many people, these small but mighty creatures are vital pollinators and decomposers, not to mention an essential part of the food web as both predators and prey. However, you may have seen recent articles warning of a looming “insect apocalypse.” No, we’re not talking about swarms of insects rising up to destroy humanity. In fact, just the opposite. The articles suggest we are seeing drastic declines in insect populations that could have catastrophic results for our planet. But, is this what the data is truly showing? This week, Sara and Casey discuss what we know about insect populations, the inherent challenges of insect conservation, and what we can all do to help our six-legged friends. They also share their favorite and least favorite animals, and Casey gives us an overview of the Bird Names for Birds movement. Show notes can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/algep112 | |||
| 11 Aug 2022 | A Climate Bill | 01:05:52 | |
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 recently passed through the United States Senate, and while that may not sound like it has anything to do with the environment, this bill contains a number of items related to climate and emissions reduction, and is a big step forward in fighting climate change. Casey and Sara discuss what the bill does and doesn't do, and talk about the next steps as the bill moves to the House of Representatives.
Resources for this Episode Summary of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget: What's in the Inflation Reduction Act? What the Inflation Reduction Act Means for Climate | |||
| 30 Dec 2022 | A Guide to Responsible Pet Ownership | 01:18:16 | |
There is a lot to consider before choosing to bring a new pet into your home. Do you have the appropriate space? Can you find and afford veterinary care? Is it even legal for you to own the animal (did you know it's illegal to own a hedgehog in Pennsylvania)? Casey and Sara walk though five big questions to ask yourself before taking on a new pet. Resources for this episode: USA Captive Constrictor Snake Human Fatalities Texas Assistant Coach, Girlfriend Sued After Pet Monkey Allegedly Bites Child Pet Monkey Euthanized After Biting NY Woman Turtle Poaching for Pet Trade Threatens Half the World's Species | |||
| 10 Feb 2022 | What is a Species? | 01:03:24 | |
What is a species? You probably thought you learned this in middle school science class, but we're here to tell you the answer is more complicated than it seems! Join Casey and Sara for a discussion on how, why, and by whom decisions on species are made.
Resources for this episode: A Few Bad Scientists are Threatening to Topple Taxonomy: Smithsonian magazine article covering Raymond Hoser. NOTE: The article states he has named over 800 taxa, not species, as we stated in the episode. This could mean species or genera, or other category--still a lot of naming! | |||
| 19 Aug 2022 | Carnivorous Plants | 00:47:14 | |
Go beyond the Venus fly trap with this week's episode on carnivorous plants. Sara and Casey discuss why some plants trap prey, how different carnivorous plants work, and which one would be the most horrifying way to go out.
Resources for this episode: Let's Talk Science: Needs of Plants Southern Illinois University: Carnivorous Plants Live Sciences: Killer Petunias and Murderous Potatoes Revealed Natural History Museum: Carnivorous Plants Australian Academy of Science: The icky, sticky and quite tricky world of predatory plants Science Daily: This Plant Sucks! (But How?) Plant Physiology: Digestive Systems of Carnivorous Plants This Carnivorous Plant Evolved to Also Be a Rodent Toilet
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| 14 Oct 2021 | Kiss the Ground: A Discussion | 00:52:03 | |
When you think of tools to combat climate change, dirt may not be at the top of your list. But, a recent documentary now streaming on Netflix, Kiss the Ground, aims to show us that preserving and regenerating healthy soil is an essential part of the fight. Join Casey and Sara as they discuss what they felt the film did really well, where it missed the mark, and what on Earth Tom Brady has to do with it, anyway. | |||
| 24 Feb 2022 | Killer Cats | 01:17:20 | |
We love cats. Cute, cuddly, and playful, as well as tough and independent, domestic cats are found around the world. A study from the American Veterinary Medical Association indicates that there are around 58 million pet cats in the United States alone. While cats can make great pets, when they're left to roam the great outdoors, they have a detrimental impact on native wildlife and ecosystems--not to mention their own health. Join Casey and Sara for a challenging discussion on how to approach the complex issue of cats as invasive species. | |||
| 20 May 2021 | Noise Pollution | 01:01:55 | |
From stressed-out birds to angry clownfish to whales with the bends, noise pollution can have a variety of impacts across a range of species. Casey and Sara discuss the effects of the noise we make and what we can do about it on this week's episode. Plus, Casey shares her review of the book Visions of Caliban: On Chimpanzees and People by Dale Peterson and Jane Goodall. See the show notes for this episode here: https://tinyurl.com/algep108 | |||
| 07 Oct 2022 | Wildlife and Hurricanes | 00:47:56 | |
Just as people will gather food and water or move to safer areas as a hurricane approaches, animals must find ways to make it through the storm. Casey and Sara discuss how creatures from birds to alligators prepare, react, and adapt to hurricanes.
Resources for this episode: National Geographic: What Happens to Wild Animals During a Hurricane | |||
| 27 Jan 2022 | Superb Owls | 01:00:34 | |
What makes an owl an owl? Whether you are already an owl aficionado or you don't yet know a screech owl from a snowy owl, we guarantee you will come away from this episode with a greater appreciation for these beautiful birds of prey.
Resources for this episode: Audubon Society: Thirteen Fun Facts About Owls Owl Research Institute: About Owls Animal Diversity Web: Tytonidae Owls of North America and Their Calls (VIDEO)
Owl Conservation Organizations: | |||
| 02 Jun 2022 | Air Pollution | 00:59:23 | |
According to the World Health Organization, over 9 out of 10 people live in areas with excessive air pollution, and yet, it's something many of us may not often think about. Join Casey and Sara for a discussion on what causes air pollution, its impacts on health and the environment, and what we can do about it.
Resources for this episode: Deadly Denora Smog of 1948 (Smithsonian Mag) Air Pollution: Everything You Need to Know (NRDC) Effects of Air Pollution (Center for Science Education) Air Pollution: Current and Future Challenges (EPA) Air Pollution Laws Aimed at Human Health also Help Birds (Cornell) | |||
| 10 Aug 2024 | White-Tailed Deer | 01:03:36 | |
White-tailed deer may not be the first species that pops to mind when you think of conservation, especially if you live across much of North or Central America. For many of us, these animals are commonly seen around our own homes and (unfortunately) roadways. Depending on your perspective, they can be seen as a nuisance, a game species, beloved local wildlife, or all of the above. In this episode, Casey and Sara discuss the history, ecology, and conservation of one of our most recognized animals. Resources for this episode: White-Tailed Deer-Penn State University You're More Likely To Hit a Deer This Week while Driving Deer-Vehicle Collisions | Purdue Extension Forestry & Natural Resources | |||
| 12 Aug 2021 | Food Waste: Part One | 00:45:14 | |
Food waste is a complicated problem with lots of environmental impacts. In addition to the fact that food products in landfills produce methane, they also represent wasted water, resources, and land used in the production of the food. In the first of a two-part episode, Casey and Sara discuss food waste that occurs in the farm and retail portions of the food supply chain. Stay tuned next week for Part Two, focusing on consumer food waste! | |||
| 28 Feb 2024 | Greening Up Baby Revisited | 01:00:01 | |
Last spring, Casey and Sara discussed some of the ways parents might be able to make eco-friendly choices while expecting and raising a baby. Now that Casey is a mom, she's taking a look back at how things went for her and sharing some additional tips and resources based on her experiences. Resources for this episode: Climate change is making people think twice about having children Environmental Impact of Feeding with Infant Formula in Comparison with Breastfeeding - PMC Disposable Diaper - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics Study: Plastic Baby Bottles Shed Microplastics When Heated. Should You Worry? : Goats and Soda : NPR Life Cycle Assessment of Disposable and Reusable Nappies in the UK | |||
| 23 Dec 2022 | The Big Cat Public Safety Act | 01:02:04 | |
Sara and Casey discuss some of the laws governing ownership and care of exotic cats in the United States, including the new Big Cat Public Safety Act. They explore what this new law means for the welfare of big cats currently in human care, as well as the future of exotic cat ownership. Resources for this episode: Congress.gov: Big Cat Public Safety Act Bill Text WWF: In a Win for Wild Tigers, the US Senate Passes Major Legislation Against Wildlife Crime The Regulatory Review: Regulating Tiger Kings MSU Animal Legal & Historical Center: Detailed Discussion of Exotic Pet Laws US Fish & Wildlife Service: Captive Wildlife Safety Act Animal Welfare Institute: Big Cat Public Safety Act MSU Animal Legal & Historical Center: Map of Private Exotic Pet Ownership Laws | |||
| 14 Oct 2022 | Nuclear Power | 01:13:45 | |
While some environmentalists feel that nuclear power is an essential part of cleaning up the power grid, others feel that the risks don't outweigh the benefits. Sara and Casey break down how nuclear power works, look at some pros and cons, and share some of the thoughts and experiences that shape their views of nuclear power. Links for the weekly challenge: Navajo Nation statement to Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources UNECE Technology Brief on Nuclear Power
Resources for this episode: https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/nuclear/ https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/what-is-nuclear-energy-the-science-of-nuclear-power EPA: Radioactive Waste from Uranium Milling and Mining Review of Environmental Impacts of the Acid In-situ Leach Uranium Mining Process Why Nuclear Power Must be Part of the Energy Solution: an opinion article with a lot of info, including impacts of the major nuclear disasters | |||
