Podcast appearances and mentions of jessica aldridge

Humans are the greatest threat to mountain lions. In California, close to 40 million people live within, or adjacent to, cougar habitat. Mountain lions as a species are not listed as endangered. But generally speaking, vehicle strikes, rat poison, inbreeding, wildfires, poaching, urban encroachment complaints, livestock depredation kill permits, and freeway systems are all contributing to what scientists call an “extinction vortex.” In this show from 2024 we discuss the efforts to protect predators, particularly the mountain lion, who are still somewhat numerous, but declining fast in the world of sprawling housing developments and freeways. First, we air parts of a Documentary series called California Mountain Lions, Legends of California, by UC Davis Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center [https://youtu.be/GLvRuSjSYgo?si=wOMXEOB60EjdUpjd]. We include sections from an interview our host Jessica Aldridge did with Beth Pratt, California Regional Executive Director of National Wildlife Federation, focusing on mountain lion populations, wildlife connectivity, and existing and planned transportation crossings as a solution to protect wildlife. [https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/room-to-roam-the-importance-of-wildlife-connectivity-crossings/] For an extended interview and other benefits, become an EcoJustice Radio patron at https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Beth Pratt, California Regional Executive Director of National Wildlife Federation, joins us to discuss the importance of connectivity and wildlife crossings. She explains why they are an integral strategy in land and habitat conservation and why preserving biodiversity not only protects wildlife, but also all of us humans! Beth's Website: http://www.bethpratt.com/ Save LA Cougars: https://savelacougars.org/ Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Jack Eidt is an urban planner, environmental journalist, and climate organizer, as well as award-winning fiction writer. He is Co-Founder of SoCal 350 Climate Action and Executive Producer of EcoJustice Radio. He is also Founder and Publisher of WilderUtopia [https://wilderutopia.com], a website dedicated to the question of Earth sustainability, finding society-level solutions to environmental, community, economic, transportation and energy needs. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Stories read by Jack Eidt from “Old Man Coyote,” Crow/Apsáalooké People, in ‘Myths and Traditions of the Crow Indians' by Robert Lowie, Univ of Nebraska Press, 1993. And “Origin of the Honey Festival,” Tembé People, in ‘From Honey to Ashes' by Claude Levi-Strauss, Harper and Row Publishers, 1966. Executive Producer and Host: Jack Eidt Co-Host Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 204 Photo credit: pixabay

Breathing clean air and drinking clean water are fundamental rights. However, these rights have been denied to many low-income communities and communities of color, who often live next to massive industrial facilities that pollute the air and water. Our guest is Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali [https://www.mustafasantiagoali.com/] former EPA official and now Executive Vice President at the National Wildlife Federation and Founder and CEO of Revitalization Strategies. He has been working toward solving historical injustices that target certain communities for class- and race-based discrimination putting them in the path of harm from toxic exposure, climate disruption, and industrial accidents. In this show we discuss Dr. Ali's history of working at the EPA and why he had to leave that position. We talk about the toxic train derailment in East Palestine, OH; the EPA regulation of forever chemicals in drinking water; and vehicle pollution standards. We also discuss how the EPA authority to regulate greenhouse gasses has been dialed back by a recent supreme court decision. Through his public advocacy, Dr. Ali shares his holistic approach to empowering and revitalizing vulnerable communities to secure environmental, health, and economic justice. And how all of us can use our talents to be part of the larger change while also curbing climate anxiety and burnout. Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali is a thought leader, international speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Dr. Ali serves as the vice president of environmental justice, climate, and community revitalization for the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) [https://www.nwf.org/About-Us/Leadership/Mustafa-Santiago-Ali]. He is also the founder of Revitalization Strategies [https://www.mustafasantiagoali.com/about-mustafa/], a business focused on moving our most vulnerable communities from “surviving to thriving.” Before joining NWF, Dr. Ali was the Senior Vice President for the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC), a national nonprofit and nonpartisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process. Prior to joining the HHC, Mustafa worked 22 years at the EPA and 2 years on Capitol Hill working for Congressman John Conyers, chairman of the Judiciary Committee. He began advocating on social justice issues at the age of 16 and joined the EPA as a student, becoming a founding member of the EPA's Office of Environmental Justice. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: https://www.gq.com/story/mustafa-ali-epa-interview Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Guest: Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 177

Join us as we explore the transformative potential of tiny living with Lindsay Wood, the Tiny Home Lady, and Theresa Bradley, founder of Race to Zero Waste. Discover how tiny homes can redefine the American Dream, address the housing crisis, and contribute to environmental sustainability. Our guests from a 2023 interview share insights on the challenges and rewards of downsizing, the intricacies of zoning laws, and the movement's accessibility. Tune in to learn how living with less can lead to a richer life. As house prices escalate, the concept of living in smaller homes has gone viral. Whether fixed to land or portable, the tiny house movement has swept across the US. Yet, what is the day-to-day reality of living the downsized life? Our guests, Lindsay Wood - The Tiny Home Lady [https://www.thetinyhomelady.com/] - and Teresa Bradley from Tiny Green Adventures [https://www.youtube.com/@tinygreenadventure], bring a dose of reality to the challenge, but also the splendor, of living simply with few belongings in a tiny home. Can you really save money by going tiny? Is it a net positive for the environment? And what about zero waste, is that possible? Are tiny homes the way to tackle the housing crisis across the United States? Tiny Homes, although lauded as a green way forward in a world covered in wasteful McMansions and debt enslaving rent payments, must overcome land and building regulations (that in many places) still consider this form of housing either illegal or difficult to approve. We go into all these points and more on this show. For an extended interview and other benefits, become an EcoJustice Radio patron at https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Lindsay Wood, "The Tiny Home Lady" [https://www.thetinyhomelady.com/] is on a mission to develop 100,000 Tiny Homes as attainable and affordable houses in California and across the US. Lindsay has been investing in Real Estate since 2015 and believes Tiny Homes are a solution to the housing and climate crisis. Lindsay consults and guides people dreaming of going Tiny through The GO TiNY! Academy, GO TiNY! Showcase. Teresa Bradley is the founding Director of Race to Zero Waste [http://racetozerowaste.org] and lives with her partner, daughter and cat who all live a low waste lifestyle while traveling most of the year in a 24-foot Class C Motorhome. She and her partner travel for environmental project work throughout California and showcase their lifestyle on their Instagram & YouTube channel called Tiny Green Adventure [https://www.youtube.com/@tinygreenadventure] . Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: https://garageshedcarportbuilder.com/tiny-homes-a-big-idea/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 172

In this interview from 2023, we delve into the harrowing experience of wildfires and their aftermath with author and poet Margaret Elysia Garcia. Join us as we explore her poetic journey through loss, resilience, and the stark realities of climate change. Margaret shares her poignant poetry from her chapbook "Burn Scars" and discusses the impact of the Dixie Fire on her hometown of Greenville, California. Don't miss this powerful narrative on the intersection of environmental disaster and human spirit. Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ka3zeXnw2_M?si=y9KUvufWjr5V5W6I Margaret Elysia Garcia [http://www.margaretelysiagarcia.com/]is the author of the short story collection Graft, the poetry chapbook Burn Scars, and the debut poetry collection the daughterland poems. Shes the editor of the forthcoming Red Flag Warning Anthology. She teaches poetry with the Community Literary Initiative and writes a history column for High Country Life magazine in Northeastern California. Shes currently working on her second collection of poems, Watershed, also to be released by El Martillo Press [https://www.elmartillopress.com/margaretelysiagarcia]. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Ep. 193

Toxic Exposure: The Monsanto Roundup Trials, and the Search for Justice," reveals the dark side of the world's most widely used herbicide. Jessica Aldridge interviewed Dr. Chadi Nabhan in 2023, who offered his expert insights on the link between glyphosate and cancer, the landmark legal battles against Monsanto, and the ongoing struggle for environmental justice. Tune in for a compelling narrative that exposes the failures of regulatory agencies and the courage of individuals standing up to agrochemical giants. Monsanto is now owned by Bayer, one of the largest agrochemical companies in the world. These companies and the EPA downplayed the health dangers of Roundup and the active ingredient glyphosate even after Monsanto lost numerous court cases (owing billions in judgements) and settled out of court for more than $11 Billion for more than 100K patients. In this interview we discuss the history of Roundup, the dangers of glyphosate, the trial stories and verdicts, and what the everyday person can do to fight for justice against this agricultural behemoth. Dr. Chadi Nabhan is an expert in lymphoid malignancies and treating and diagnosing cancers. He is author of Toxic Exposure: The True Story behind the Monsanto Trials and the Search for Justice [http://www.chadinabhan.com]. He received his medical degree from Damascus University in Syria. After performing basic science research at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, he completed his internal medicine residency as well as an MBA in Healthcare Management at Loyola University in Chicago. Dr. Nabhan maintains active medical licenses in five states, and has over 300 peer-reviewed articles and abstracts. He is also a sought-after speaker, moderator, facilitator, and the creator and host of his own podcast, "Healthcare Unfiltered" [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjiJPTpIJdIiukcq0UaMFsA]. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Buy the book, Toxic Exposure: https://chadinabhan.com/mybooks/ Salon Article: https://www.salon.com/2023/02/25/glyphosate-roundup-chadi-nabhan-interview/

In this industrialized country, we have had a war on wild what we call "predators," helicopter gunners shooting wolves to “protect” caribou herds in Alaska. Every day is open season on mountain lions in Nevada. Between 2000 and 2021, at least 4,229 mountain lions were killed in Nevada by hunters, trappers, and the state's lethal removal effort, according to data from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Humans are the greatest threat to mountain lions. In California, close to 40 million people live within, or adjacent to, cougar habitat. In this show we air parts of a documentary series called California Mountain Lions, Legends of California, by UC Davis Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center [https://youtu.be/GLvRuSjSYgo?si=wOMXEOB60EjdUpjd]. Featured speakers are Walter Boyce, UC Davis, Dave Garcelon, Institute of Wildlife Studies, T. Winston Vickers, Veterinarian, UC Davis, and Jessica Sanchez SoCal Puma Project, Eric Gagne, Post Doc, Colorado State Univ., Trish Smith, The Nature Conservancy, and Pablo Bryant, SDSU Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve. We also share from Indigenous stories and mythology about the importance of predators like the big cats, or jaguars in their southern relatives. We further include sections from an interview our host Jessica Aldridge did with Beth Pratt, California Regional Executive Director of National Wildlife Federation, focusing on mountain lion populations, wildlife connectivity, and existing and planned transportation crossings as a solution to protect wildlife. [https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/room-to-roam-the-importance-of-wildlife-connectivity-crossings/] More Info: https://mountainlion.org/2022/03/02/mountain-lion-minutes-the-archaeology-of-americas-lion/ https://www.latimes.com/environment/story/2024-01-07/california-has-fewer-mountain-lions-than-previously-estimated Beth Pratt, California Regional Executive Director of National Wildlife Federation, joins us to discuss the importance of connectivity and wildlife crossings. She explains why they are an integral strategy in land and habitat conservation and why preserving biodiversity not only protects wildlife, but also all of us humans! Beth's Website: http://www.bethpratt.com/ Save LA Cougars: https://savelacougars.org/ Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Jack Eidt is an urban planner, environmental journalist, and climate organizer, as well as award-winning fiction writer. He is Co-Founder of SoCal 350 Climate Action and Executive Producer of EcoJustice Radio. He is also Founder and Publisher of WilderUtopia [https://wilderutopia.com], a website dedicated to the question of Earth sustainability, finding society-level solutions to environmental, community, economic, transportation and energy needs. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Stories read by Jack Eidt from “Old Man Coyote,” Crow/Apsáalooké People, in ‘Myths and Traditions of the Crow Indians' by Robert Lowie, Univ of Nebraska Press, 1993. And “Origin of the Honey Festival,” Tembé People, in ‘From Honey to Ashes' by Claude Levi-Strauss, Harper and Row Publishers, 1966. Executive Producer and Host: Jack Eidt Co-Host Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 204

Check out our special encore presentation of our interview with Human Rights Attorney Steven Donziger recorded in December 2020. We investigate the story of Chevron's crimes in Ecuador with Mr. Donziger who represented Ecuadorian communities demanding justice in a $9.5 billion decision against them for one of the largest-ever oil disasters. In this episode, we investigate the story of New York based attorney Steven Donziger who represented Ecuadorian communities demanding justice from Chevron-Texaco for one of the largest-ever oil disasters, where they deliberately dumped more than 16 billion gallons of toxic wastewater, spilled 17 million gallons of crude oil, and left hazardous waste in hundreds of open pits dug out of the forest floor. In a historic judgment, Chevron was found liable by Ecuadorian courts and ordered to pay $9.5 billion. Chevron says it will never pay. Instead, they launched an extraordinary racketeering and extortion lawsuit against the Ecuadorian and U.S. attorneys, and various consultants alleging they were all lying about Chevron's pollution and that the entire case was "sham litigation." Chevron has turned our guest Steven Donziger into a corporate political prisoner, placed under house arrest, bankrupt, disbarred. We look into how Chevron, supported by US federal judges, is using retaliatory attacks against Mr. Donziger and the Ecuadorian Peoples, and how their actions set a dangerous precedent and represent a growing and serious threat to the ability of civil society to hold corporations accountable for their misdeeds around the world. Steven Donziger is a New York-based attorney, human rights advocate, and member of the international legal team that won the historic $9.5 billion Ecuador pollution judgment against Chevron. Steven spent 995 days in detention on what was at most a misdemeanor, both in house arrest and prison, after he refused what appears to be an unlawful order to turn over his computer and cell phone to Chevron as he fought to protect the rights and lives of his Indigenous clients, including their right to confidential communications with their own lawyer. He can be reached at the websites https://www.freedonziger.com/ Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 16-year recycling industry and Zero Waste leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. In her day job she is the Sustainability and Zero Waste Programs Director for Athens Services. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/criminalizing-activism-steven-donziger-vs-chevron-2/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 84

Well, we all know we have a problem with waste, trash, single-use plastics, wrappers, plastic bags. Plastic has become ubiquitous in our daily lives thanks to its convenience and artificially low prices. But it comes with many costs, upstream and downstream, so to speak. Fossil fuels fracked and pipelined to produce it, petrochemical facilities polluting communities, ecosystems, and the climate. Millions of tons of plastic waste are dumped every year, much of which makes its way into the oceans, harming wildlife and ecosystems in the process. Yet the majority of all plastic that has ever been made, some say around 90 percent, is not recycled. But keep in mind that recycling has some value, and we will get to that. Our EcoJustice Radio co-host, as most of our regular listeners know, has been working for the last sixteen years in the waste industry to help clean up their act and provide solutions to this insane dilemma. We decided to have her take the interviewee seat this week to give us a vision of what can be done to confront this problem. And taking over the interviewer seat this week is Auri Jackson, a veteran of viral video news site BuzzFeed, who became known for telling stories using humor to transform scary and unsexy topics like the climate crisis and plastic pollution into inspiration and action. Auri Jackson [http://www.aurijackson.com/] tells stories using humor to transform scary and unsexy topics like the climate crisis and plastic pollution into inspiration and action. During her seven years at BuzzFeed, she pioneered viral environmental content, the only dedicated sustainability video producer there, created multiple successful unscripted series, and gained a deep knowledge of what makes millions of eyes pay attention. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 16-year recycling industry and Zero Waste leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. In her day job she is the Sustainability and Zero Waste Programs Director for Athens Services. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Ep. 198

The Right to Repair our electronics and other materials sounds like a no brainer. But historically manufacturers have said otherwise and fought, with millions of dollars, to stop legislation that allows consumers access to the resources to repair items like cell phones, toasters, and even tractor trucks. On this show Right to Repair takes center stage with guests Liv Butler, Policy Associate for Californians Against Waste [http://www.cawrecycles.org] and Elizabeth Chamberlain, Director of Sustainability for iFixit [https://www.ifixit.com/]. From new legislation in California to the national and global movement and successes, we discuss how manufacturers are being required to provide repair tools, parts, and manuals and examine concern around manufacturer compliance. Right to Repair is an important element in combating planned obsolescence and empowers consumers and small businesses. Our guests provide a thought-provoking look at this intersection of environmentalism, economics, and consumer rights and access. You may be surprised to learn that fixing your own items doesn't actually void the manufacturers' warranty. We discuss this and much more. Liv Butler is a Policy Associate at the Sacramento-based environmental advocacy group, Californians Against Waste [http://www.cawrecycles.org]. There, she works on legislation related to Extended Producer Responsibility and recycling issues. Elizabeth Chamberlain heads iFixit's advocacy work, supporting Right to Repair legislation around the globe and pushing for more repair in green electronics standards. The role blends her commitment to climate action, her love of technology, and her doctoral work in digital rhetoric [https://www.ifixit.com/]. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Related Show https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/the-right-to-repair-your-devices-the-corporate-stranglehold/ Articles https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/video/right-to-repair-rally-held-at-the-california-state-capitol-in-sacramento/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/08/24/apples-surprising-about-face-right-repair/ Resources https://www.repair.org/ https://pirg.org/campaigns/right-to-repair/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Ep. 196

Breathing clean air and drinking clean water are fundamental rights. However, these have been denied to many low-income communities and communities of color, who often live next to massive industrial facilities that pollute the air and water. Our guest from an encore presentation from early in 2023 is Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali {https://www.mustafasantiagoali.com/] former EPA official and now Executive Vice President at the National Wildlife Federation and Founder and CEO of Revitalization Strategies. He has been working toward solving historical injustices that target certain communities for class- and race-based discrimination putting them in the path of harm from toxic exposure, climate disruption, and industrial accidents. In this show we discuss Dr. Ali's history of working at the EPA and why he had to leave that position. We talk about the toxic train derailment in East Palestine, OH; the EPA regulation of forever chemicals in drinking water; and vehicle pollution standards. We also discuss how the EPA authority to regulate greenhouse gasses has been dialed back by a recent supreme court decision. Through his public advocacy, Dr. Ali shares his holistic approach to empowering and revitalizing vulnerable communities to secure environmental, health, and economic justice. And how all of us can use our talents to be part of the larger change while also curbing climate anxiety and burnout. Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali is a thought leader, international speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Dr. Ali serves as the vice president of environmental justice, climate, and community revitalization for the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) [https://www.nwf.org/About-Us/Leadership/Mustafa-Santiago-Ali]. He is also the founder of Revitalization Strategies [https://www.mustafasantiagoali.com/about-mustafa/], a business focused on moving our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving. Before joining NWF, Dr. Ali was the Senior Vice President for the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC), a national nonprofit and nonpartisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process. Prior to joining the HHC, Mustafa worked 22 years at the EPA and 2 years on Capitol Hill working for Congressman John Conyers, chairman of the Judiciary Committee. He began advocating on social justice issues at the age of 16 and joined the EPA as a student, becoming a founding member of the EPAs Office of Environmental Justice. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40.

Margaret Elysia Garcia, author and poet published by El Martillo Press, has spent a couple of decades living in Greenville, a Gold Rush-era Northern California town, that no longer exists as it did in 2021. That's because it was devoured by the Dixie Fire, one of the largest blazes in California history. Margaret began writing her poetry collection “Burn Scars” while waiting at traffic stops driving from her mother's house to her former hometown. She grappled with the destructive aftermath that began with a eulogy and ended with a 79 page poetry book memoir. On this show, we discuss with Margaret how poetry serves as a vehicle to process, mourn, and raise awareness around climate disruption while honoring those on the front lines. She shares her poetry and tells us how a town of marginal incomes, set in dense forests, was almost completely destroyed. Margaret relates how the fire started near a Pacific Gas and Electric power station and spread at an incomprehensible rate as a result of gusty winds and historically dry conditions. Thankfully no lives were lost. But the fire resulted in significant losses of property and livelihoods with major challenges for rebuilding. One thing's for sure, lots of lessons were learned and stronger community bonds were built. Listen to the extended interview: https://www.patreon.com/posts/margaret-elysia-90722908 Margaret Elysia Garcia [http://www.margaretelysiagarcia.com/]is the author of the short story collection Graft, the poetry chapbook Burn Scars, and the debut poetry collection the daughterland poems. She's the editor of the forthcoming Red Flag Warning Anthology. She teaches poetry with the Community Literary Initiative and writes a history column for High Country Life magazine in Northeastern California. She's currently working on her second collection of poems, Watershed, also to be released by El Martillo Press [https://www.elmartillopress.com/margaretelysiagarcia]. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Ep. 193 Photo credit: Margaret E. Garcia

The fossil fuel industry has been promoting hydrogen as a reliable, low carbon, next-generation fuel to power cars, heat homes, and generate electricity. However, currently 99% of the annual supply of hydrogen comes from fracked methane gas. So will switching to hydrogen only lock us into continued fossil fuel use and additional investments in fossil fuel infrastructure? Proponents argue that when hydrogen is made using renewable power it can cut climate-warming industrial carbon pollution from the steel, oil, and agricultural industries. However, does hydrogen measure up when compared to powering our cars and homes with alternative renewable energy generated directly from wind and solar? In this encore presentation, Ashley Kosak, 2022 Research and Project Management Fellow with FracTracker Alliance [https://www.fractracker.org/], explains how hydrogen is generated, transported, stored, and burned; the environmental and social impacts; and what it means for the future of clean energy. Listen to the extended interview: https://www.patreon.com/posts/ashley-kosak-on-77020057 Ashley Kosak is a mechanical engineer who started her career as an engineer at SpaceX. She is an advocate for decarbonization for energy and aerospace, consumption reduction, and social advocacy. She worked with FracTracker Alliance to distill complex emerging technologies into a simple process that can be understood by anyone who wishes to be informed of shifts within the clean energy movement. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Greenwashing Hydrogen Webinar with Ashley: https://halttheharm.net/2022/12/greenwashing-hydrogen-understanding-the-climate-risks-of-blue-hydrogen/ Ashley on her time at SpaceX: https://www.lioness.co/post/at-spacex-we-re-told-we-can-change-the-world-just-don-t-try-to-stop-the-sexual-harassment Related Shows: On Building Decarbonization/Home Electrification: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/zerohouz-ditching-fossil-fuels-for-a-zero-emissions-home/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/the-truth-about-hydrogen-green-fuel-or-greenwash/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Guest: Ashley Kosak Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats

Is a 100% clean, renewable energy future by the year 2050 possible? Our guest, Stanford Professor Mark Z. Jacobson proposes that the most efficient and socially and environmentally just way is to replace fossil fuels through a combined implementation of Wind, Water, and Solar energy solutions. Are these solutions perfect? No. However, when compared to other so-called energy solutions like nuclear, biofuel, biomass, waste to energy, and hydrogen (just to name a few) these three (Wind, Water-Geothermal, Solar) show significant promise. As our guest explains, real solutions must always be BOTH clean and renewable, rapidly deployable, low cost, and carry with them very few side effects. In this encore interview from early 2023, Professor Jacobson responds to his detractors and also debunks some myths, while getting at the solutions. What about the intermittency of wind and solar? Is there enough battery storage? Are wind turbines dangerous to wildlife? What is the real cost of battery mining and disposal? Why don't small nuclear reactors make the cut and how are they dangerous even to global security? How do the proposed costs-benefits of these solutions pencil out when compared to other options and the fossil fuel industry? In his latest book, No Miracles Needed, How Today's Technology Can Save Our Climate and Clean Our Air, Professor Mark Z. Jacobson [https://web.stanford.edu/group/efmh/jacobson/] lays out a clear framework based on peer reviewed studies, and he does so in a way that is easy to understand. Professor Jacobson has developed computer models and roadmaps that illustrate how countries, states, cities, and towns can transition to 100% renewable energy for all their energy needs. He is a man with a clean energy plan, one with a stable and efficient grid that would provide reliable electricity at lower cost while creating new jobs. Mark Z. Jacobson is Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Stanford University, and Director of their Atmosphere/Energy Program. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Public course on 100% renewables: Clean, renewable energy & storage for a sustainable future: https://online.stanford.edu/courses/xeiet100-clean-renewable-energy-storage-sustainable-future New book: "No Miracles Needed": https://web.stanford.edu/group/efmh/jacobson/WWSNoMN/NoMiracles.html Stanford Solutions Project infographic map https://sites.google.com/stanford.edu/wws-roadmaps/home Related Shows: Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Mark Z. Jacobson Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 165

Humans are eating more seafood than can ever be replenished, a vital source of protein for 3.3 billion people. There are many different ways to feed people while conserving our marine ecosystems without overfishing and industrial fish farming. Unfortunately, the US government and multinational corporations are pushing offshore industrial fish farming as a way to keep people eating their salmon and shrimp. In fact the US government is fast tracking industrial fish farms in federal waters, in underwater or floating net pens, pods, and cages. International agribusiness companies are pushing legislation that would open the floodgates for US offshore factory fish farms (think Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations on the ocean). Our guest, Andrianna Natsoulas from the Don't Cage Our Oceans coalition campaign [https://dontcageouroceans.org/], says no to these industrial fish farms, while advocating for community-centered seafood supply chains. We talk about the impacts to public health and the environment from these massive open net-pens. She also advocates for the alternatives: sustainably managed wild-caught seafood and aquaculture fish farming practices that are embedded in social, economic, and environmental values. For the extended interview, click here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/andrianna-of-our-86979454 Andrianna Natsoulas is the Campaign Director of the coalition Don't Cage our Oceans [https://dontcageouroceans.org]. She has worked on agricultural and fisheries issues in varying capacities and venues for over two decades. She has been an independent consultant and worked for organizations, such as Food & Water Watch, the North American Marine Alliance, and the Northeast Organic Farming Association of New York. Andrianna wrote the book, Food Voices: Stories From the People Who Feed Us, which is a collection of personal stories from farmers and fishermen who are part of the food sovereignty movement. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Photo credit: Andrianna Natsoulas

The upcoming documentary ‘Feeding Tomorrow' explores the intersection between the food we eat, our personal and community health, and protection and regeneration of ecosystems. In today's interview, Oliver English, Co-Founder & CEO of Common Table Creative [http://www.commontablecreative.com] and Filmmaker, Chef, and Food Advocate, shares the stories of visionary leaders in agriculture, healthcare, and education working to build a more just food system in their local communities - giving rise to a new global vision for Feeding Tomorrow. Oliver illustrates tangible, working examples of regenerative farming methods that not only grow healthy food, but also heal both the land and the people. As a professional chef that grew up in a restaurant family, he makes the case for why restaurants and chefs must have an intimate knowledge of their food system impact and how they can be part of the solution. All that and more on this show. Listen to the Extended Interview: https://www.patreon.com/posts/filmmaker-oliver-86305333 Oliver English [http://olivertenglish.com/] is the Co-Founder & CEO of Common Table Creative (CTC), an impact-driven production and hospitality company specializing in advancing global food, sustainability, and social justice issues. Common Table Creative [http://www.commontablecreative.com] works with the world's leading NGOs, non-profits, and innovative food companies to tell stories about the power of food, and drive change through inspiring individual action. He co-created CTC's signature documentary, ‘Feeding Tomorrow', and launched WE UNITE, a short-form documentary, together with the United Nations & the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements. He grew up in a family restaurant business, and has worked for some of the most prestigious global hospitality companies, including Alain Ducasse Enterprise in Paris, France, Eleven Madison Park in New York, and for Celebrity Chef Daniele Boulud. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Photo credit: Oliver English

Dr. Scott Coffin joined us in this encore presentation from 2022. As a toxicologist and Research Scientist at California State Water Resources Control Board, he speaks about how microplastics are entering our environment, how to assess risk and implement precautionary solutions. Microplastics, small, micro-sized plastic fragments are showing up in our water sources, rain, drinking water, and beverages like beer. It is in food, salt, and seafood. Moreover, it has recently been found in human breast milk, placentas, human lungs, and blood. One report indicated that blue whales are consuming 10 million pieces of microplastic particles a day. As plastic fragments, it continues to shed fibers smaller than a strand of human hair. Most of the time we are unaware how and when this happens. Did you know, when you open a plastic cap on a bottle, you release thousands of particles. But then there is also our clothing, roads, artificial turf, food packaging, tea bags, or plastic that comes in contact with friction, hot liquid, or hot food. For the extended discussion with Dr, Coffin, click here: www.patreon.com/posts/more-on-and-with-74660652 Dr. Scott Coffin [https://scottcoff.in/] is a research scientist and subject-matter expert for microplastics at the California State Water Resources Control Board, where he leads the agency's efforts to monitor and manage microplastics pollution in drinking water and the environment. Dr. Coffin holds a PhD in environmental toxicology from the University of California, Riverside. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info: https://www.sccwrp.org/about/research-areas/additional-research-areas/trash-pollution/microplastics-health-effects-webinar-series/history-california-microplastics-legislation/ https://www.plastiverse.org/ https://www.springeropen.com/collections/sccwrp Related Show: The EcoJustice Radio Plastic Plague Series: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/the-future-solutions-policy-resistance-around-plastic-plastic-plague-pt-7/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/microplastics-are-everywhere-whats-the-risk/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Guest: Dr. Scott Coffin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats

Green Building. Organic Architecture. Regenerative Design. These concepts have come to prominence recognizing the built environment as one of the largest contributors of carbon dioxide emissions, using toxic materials that can damage human health as well as pollute the environment. Following Nature's design process, our guest this week has developed an organic approach to design with an eye toward innovative buildings that embody ecological & social responsibility. Organic architecture, coined by master architect Frank Lloyd Wright, unifies every element of the building—from windows to doors and even floors and furniture—with Nature. Biomimicry has become an important advance in this movement, harnessing functional design elements from—mimicking—Nature. Our guest, award-winning Architect Eric Corey Freed, 12-time Author, and Director of Sustainability for CannonDesign, has made this central to his work when designing buildings. On this show we discuss Eric's approach to designing for the human systems, our senses, cycles, and signals, to engage people through using biology as a technology. We explore his process in how to build a non-toxic building that can also increase our connection to the natural world. If that sounds abstract, Eric Corey Freed is here to walk us through the work he has been doing for decades now. Eric Corey Freed is an award-winning architect, author, and global speaker. As Principal and Director of Sustainability for CannonDesign [https://www.cannondesign.com/people/eric-corey-freed], he leads the healthcare, education, and commercial teams toward low-carbon, healthy, regenerative buildings for over 30 million square feet a year. For two decades, he was Founding Principal of organicARCHITECT [http://www.organicarchitect.com/about/ecf.html], a visionary design leader in biophilic and regenerative design. He serves on the board of Design Museum Everywhere, whose mission is to “bring the transformative power of design to all.” Eric is the author of 12 books, including "Green Building & Remodeling for Dummies” and "Circular Economy for Dummies." In 2012, he and his firm were named one of the 25 "Best Green Architecture Firms" in the US, and one of the "Top 10 Most Influential Green Architects." Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/reports/14-patterns/ Fossil fuel firms owe climate reparations of $209bn a year, says study https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/may/19/fossil-fuel-firms-owe-climate-reparations-of-209bn-a-year-says-study Oil and gas health impacts cost $77 billion per year, study finds https://www.axios.com/2023/05/10/oil-gas-health-impacts-study Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Photo credit: Eric Corey Freed

For years, Monsanto declared that their product Roundup, the world's most widely used weed killer, was safe. But in 2015, scientific studies concluded that glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, is probably carcinogenic. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Monsanto disagreed with the findings, as scientists worked to understand the link between glyphosate and cancer. Dr. Chadi Nabhan's book, Toxic Exposure [https://chadinabhan.com/mybooks/], tells the true story of his role as an expert physician witness who testified in multiple state and federal trials against Monsanto. His book recounts the heartbreaking stories of numerous patients who developed the cancer non-Hodgkin lymphoma, after regularly using Roundup on yards and school grounds. Monsanto is now owned by Bayer, one of the largest agrochemical companies in the world. These companies and the EPA downplayed the health dangers of Roundup and the active ingredient glyphosate even after Monsanto lost numerous court cases (owing billions in judgements) and settled out of court for more than $11 Billion for more than 100K patients. In this interview we discuss the history of Roundup, the dangers of glyphosate, the trial stories and verdicts, and what the everyday person can do to fight for justice against this agricultural behemoth. Listen to the Extended Interview: https://www.patreon.com/posts/dr-chadi-nabhan-84123670 Dr. Chadi Nabhan is an expert in lymphoid malignancies and treating and diagnosing cancers. He is author of Toxic Exposure: The True Story behind the Monsanto Trials and the Search for Justice [http://www.chadinabhan.com]. He received his medical degree from Damascus University in Syria. After performing basic science research at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, he completed his internal medicine residency as well as an MBA in Healthcare Management at Loyola University in Chicago. Dr. Nabhan maintains active medical licenses in five states, and has over 300 peer-reviewed articles and abstracts. He is also a sought-after speaker, moderator, facilitator, and the creator and host of his own podcast, "Healthcare Unfiltered" [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjiJPTpIJdIiukcq0UaMFsA]. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Buy the book, Toxic Exposure: https://chadinabhan.com/mybooks/ Salon Article: https://www.salon.com/2023/02/25/glyphosate-roundup-chadi-nabhan-interview/ Related Show: Kelly Ryerson - Glyphosate Girl - https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/glyphosate-an-herbicide-that-kills-more-than-weeds/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Photo credit: Dr. Chadi Nabhan

Breathing clean air and drinking clean water are fundamental rights. However, these rights have been denied to many low-income communities and communities of color, who often live next to massive industrial facilities that pollute the air and water. Our guest is Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali [https://www.mustafasantiagoali.com/] former EPA official and now Executive Vice President at the National Wildlife Federation and Founder and CEO of Revitalization Strategies. He has been working toward solving historical injustices that target certain communities for class- and race-based discrimination putting them in the path of harm from toxic exposure, climate disruption, and industrial accidents. In this show we discuss Dr. Ali's history of working at the EPA and why he had to leave that position. We talk about the toxic train derailment in East Palestine, OH; the EPA regulation of forever chemicals in drinking water; and vehicle pollution standards. We also discuss how the EPA authority to regulate greenhouse gasses has been dialed back by a recent supreme court decision. Through his public advocacy, Dr. Ali shares his holistic approach to empowering and revitalizing vulnerable communities to secure environmental, health, and economic justice. And how all of us can use our talents to be part of the larger change while also curbing climate anxiety and burnout. LISTEN to the Extended Interview: https://www.patreon.com/posts/dr-mustafa-ali-83445663 Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali is a thought leader, international speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Dr. Ali serves as the vice president of environmental justice, climate, and community revitalization for the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) [https://www.nwf.org/About-Us/Leadership/Mustafa-Santiago-Ali]. He is also the founder of Revitalization Strategies [https://www.mustafasantiagoali.com/about-mustafa/], a business focused on moving our most vulnerable communities from “surviving to thriving.” Before joining NWF, Dr. Ali was the Senior Vice President for the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC), a national nonprofit and nonpartisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process. Prior to joining the HHC, Mustafa worked 22 years at the EPA and 2 years on Capitol Hill working for Congressman John Conyers, chairman of the Judiciary Committee. He began advocating on social justice issues at the age of 16 and joined the EPA as a student, becoming a founding member of the EPA's Office of Environmental Justice. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: https://www.gq.com/story/mustafa-ali-epa-interview Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Guest: Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 177

Jessica Aldridge, TRUE Advisor is the Director of Sustainability & Zero Waste Programs at Athens Services, she designs programs for the most challenging waste scenarios, consults with corporate brands, and advances Athens' environmental goals. She leads on Athens' organics and Zero Waste outreach and education programs and hosts/produces EcoJustice Radio an award-winning podcast and radio show (on KPFK Los Angeles and KPFT Houston), presenting environmental and climate stories from a social justice frame.

#94: Are you all composting at home? Well, you should be, because we're now kind of required to by law! California's landmark composting mandate went into effect in January of 2022. It states that all residents and businesses must separate “green waste” from other trash. To comply, LA developed a new composting program called “organics recycling,” but roll out has been complex, especially for multifamily residences.  Today, How To LA and LAist's climate emergency reporter, Erin Stone, go to Park La Brea Apartments – the largest apartment complex on the West coast – to see how they're making composting happen for their renters.  Guests: Aryn Thomez, VP of property management at Park La Brea Apartments; Jessica Aldridge, director of sustainability at Athens Services; Erin Stone, climate emergency reporter for LAist.  Check out Erin's reporting on the roll out of the composting program. And check out Athens Services guides on properly composting and recycling.   

Greenhouse gases from fossil fuels, such as carbon dioxide and methane, are warming the planet. This warming is then setting in motion ice and permafrost melting, release of more greenhouse gases, more heat and storms – these are feedback loops, which then feed upon themselves, as well as interact with each other and spiral further out of control. In this show, we sat down in 2022 with Susan Gray, Director and Bonnie Waltch, Senior Producer and writer of the five-part documentary series, “Climate Emergency: Feedback Loops.” [https://FeedBackLoopsClimate.com] Narrated by Richard Gere, this series of five short films features twelve leading climate scientists, who explore how human-caused emissions are triggering nature's own warming loops. We also learned why natural warming loops have scientists alarmed—and why they feel we have less time to correct climate disruption than previously thought. The series is subtitled in 23 languages and can be paired with an educational science curriculum for students in grades 6-12. The films can be viewed in full at https://FeedBackLoopsClimate.com For an extended version of this interview: https://www.patreon.com/posts/feedback-loops-64015141 Susan Gray is the award-winning director and co-writer of Climate Emergency: Feedback Loops, & Earth Emergency. She began her career as an environmental political activist and now makes documentary films about the pressing social issues of our times. Her films have been aired on major television networks around the world. Bonnie Waltch is a Boston-based freelance producer/director/writer for documentaries and museum exhibit media and the award-winning senior producer and writer of Climate Emergency: Feedback Loops, & Earth Emergency. Other recent work include a short film about super reefs for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and media for the Pikes Peak Visitor Center in Colorado. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Resources/Articles: https://www.woodwellclimate.org/ WOODWELL CLIMATE RESEARCH CENTER; https://www.oneearth.org/who-we-fund/media-advocacy-grants/project-drawdown-100-solutions-to-reverse-global-warming/ PROJECT DRAWDOWN: 100 Solutions for Global Warming Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/feedback-loops-climate-changes-most-critical-dynamic/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 131

As house prices escalate, the concept of living in smaller homes has gone viral. Whether fixed to land or portable, the tiny house movement has swept across the US. Yet, what is the day-to-day reality of living the downsized life? Our guests this week, Lindsay Wood - The Tiny Home Lady [https://www.thetinyhomelady.com/] - and Teresa Bradley from Tiny Green Adventures [https://www.youtube.com/@tinygreenadventure3464], bring a dose of reality to the challenge, but also the splendor, of living simply with few belongings in a tiny home. Can you really save money by going tiny? Is it a net positive for the environment? And what about zero waste, is that possible? Are tiny homes the way to tackle the housing crisis across the United States? Tiny Homes, although lauded as a green way forward in a world covered in wasteful McMansions and debt enslaving rent payments, must overcome land and building regulations (that in many places) still consider this form of housing either illegal or difficult to approve. We go into all these points and more on this show. For an extended interview and other benefits, become an EcoJustice Radio patron at https://www.patreon.com/posts/tiny-home-lady-81679651 Lindsay Wood, "The Tiny Home Lady" [https://www.thetinyhomelady.com/] is on a mission to develop 100,000 Tiny Homes as attainable and affordable houses in California and across the US. Lindsay has been investing in Real Estate since 2015 and believes Tiny Homes are a solution to the housing and climate crisis. Lindsay consults and guides people dreaming of going Tiny through The GO TiNY! Academy, GO TiNY! Showcase and the GO TiNY! VIP Tours [https://www.youtube.com/@GOTINYTV] . Teresa Bradley is the founding Director of Race to Zero Waste [http://racetozerowaste.org] and lives with her partner, daughter and cat who all live a low waste lifestyle while traveling most of the year in a 24-foot Class C Motorhome. She and her partner travel for environmental project work throughout California and showcase their lifestyle on their Instagram & YouTube channel called Tiny Green Adventure [https://www.youtube.com/@tinygreenadventure3464] . Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: https://www.thetinyhomelady.com/press.html https://garageshedcarportbuilder.com/tiny-homes-a-big-idea/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 172 Photo credit: The Tiny Home Lady

In the coming decades, at least thirteen million coastal U.S. residents will have to pack their bags and move from their homes, rising sea levels and superstorms put lives at risk and cause billions of dollars in damages. In the popular tourist town of Charleston, South Carolina, climate denial, widespread gentrification, over development, and racial issues compound. The city, like so many other coastal regions across the world, has no workable plan to relocate its most vulnerable populations away from the path of harm. Harvard Law Professor and Author Susan Crawford tells the story of a city that has played a central role in this country's painful racial history since the early 1800s and now, as the waters rise, the city stands at the intersection of climate and race. In her book, 'Charleston: Race, Water, and the Coming Storm' [https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Charleston/Susan-Crawford/9781639363575 ], Susan Crawford puts out a well-researched call for climate adaptation and mitigation, guided by Black community leaders whom she documents with in-depth narratives. Some say a sea wall is the answer, others find the suggestion to be an expensive undertaking that falls short of impending climate predictions. So what would it mean to uproot an entire town due rising sea levels and flooding neighborhoods? In this show we discuss the issues Charleston and other similar cities face and how long term planning and respectful engagement and treatment of local communities of color can result in necessary solutions. BUY THE BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1639363572?tag=simonsayscom For an extended interview and other benefits, become an EcoJustice Radio patron at https://www.patreon.com/posts/author-susan-on-80990896 Susan Crawford is the John A. Reilly Clinical Professor of Law at Harvard Law School and author of ‘Charleston: Race, Water, and the Coming Storm' [https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Charleston/Susan-Crawford/9781639363575 ]. She previously was Obama's special assistant to the president for science, technology, and innovation policy and co-led the FCC transition team between his and the Bush administrations. Earlier in her career, Crawford was a partner at Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering. As an academic, she teaches courses about climate adaptation and public leadership. Crawford is the author of several books, including Captive Audience: The Telecom Industry and Monopoly Power in the New Gilded Age and Fiber: The Coming Tech Revolution and Why America Might Miss It. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Coastal Flood Resilience Project: https://www.cfrp.info/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 170 Photo credit: Susan Crawford

Multiple banks have pledged to clean up their fossil fuel funding with net-zero carbon commitments, but they continue business-as-usual, pushing for profit by championing destructive projects responsible for driving climate chaos. The 2022 annual report, Banking on Climate Chaos [http://www.bankingonclimatechaos.org], revealed that fossil fuel financing from the worlds 60 largest banks has reached nearly $4.6 trillion in the six years since the adoption of the Paris Climate Agreement, with $742 billion in 2021 alone. On this show recorded in 2022, we delve into the Banking on Climate Chaos report with Ruth Breech from Rainforest Action Network [https://www.ran.org/], one of the organizations that authored the report. She discusses how these findings underscore the need for banks to immediately implement policies that end their financing for fossil fuel expansion. Moreover we highlight some of these projects causing climate chaos and the worldwide movement of communities coming together to demand that the financial sector get out of the oil and gas business altogether. We also feature special reports from Producer Jack Eidt on Liquified natural Gas expansions on the Louisiana Gulf Coast and the recently approved Willow drilling project on Alaska's North Slope. Listen to the extended version of the show: https://www.patreon.com/posts/banking-on-chaos-66503029 Ruth Breech is Senior Campaigner, of Rainforest Action Networks Climate and Energy team. She is responsible for organizing corporate accountability campaigns on financial institutions, supporting front line communities impacted by fossil fuels and climate change, partnering with Indigenous leaders and working with grassroots networks across the country to Defund Climate Chaos. Ruth brings 20 years of on-the-ground-work with environmental justice frontline communities. She is the recipient of the 2009 Healthy School Heroes Award for her leadership in relocating an elementary school in Ohio away from a plastics plant and its cancer causing emissions. She serves on the board of Crude Accountability International & Earth Guardians. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/banking-on-climate-chaos-the-fossil-fuel-finance-report/ Support the Podcast: Patreon https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats

We've been ​“saving the planet” for decades and environmental crises just continue to compound. All this Tesla driving, green-roofed corporate headquarters, and carbon trading seems to accomplish little to nothing — all while low-income communities of color continue to suffer the worst consequences. Jenny Price is an ardent advocate for increasing public environmental access, activism, and effectiveness in solving the myriad of challenges we face. She joined us in 2022 to talk about her latest book, 'Stop Saving the Planet, An Environmentalist Manifesto' [https://www.jennyjjprice.net/stop-saving-the-planet]. Its message is that environmental advocates must do better. She suggests a plan with 39 steps to get to cleaning up the toxic messes and rolling back climate change. Buy the Book: https://www.jennyjjprice.net/stop-saving-the-planet# Jenny Price is a writer and public artist, and a Research Fellow at the Sam Fox School at Washington University-St. Louis. She tells stories about the environment and public space, and deploys a wide variety of public arts and humanities formats to do so. Her writings include Stop Saving the Planet: An Environmentalist Manifesto (2021); Flight Maps: Adventures with Nature in Modern America; “Thirteen Ways of Seeing Nature in L.A.” and other essays; op-eds in the NY Times and LA Times; and her not-quite advice column “Green Me Up JJ.” She has created, co-created, and sometimes stumbled into public art projects to work for environmental justice, as well as to de-privatize essential public spaces. She has co-founded the LA Urban Rangers collective, led tours of the concrete LA River, designed the alternative Nature Trail in Laumeier Sculpture Park, co-launched the "What Are You Doing?! (stop saving the planet!)” video series, and co-created the popular Our Malibu Beaches mobile phone app. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/stop-saving-the-planet-an-environmentalist-manifesto-ep-125/ Support the Podcast: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Hosted by Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Episode 125 Photo credit: Igor Heifetz

The fashion industry contributes to roughly 10% of all global carbon emissions (releasing 1.2 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere every year). It is also the world's second worst offender in terms of water and plastic pollution, seeing that the majority of our clothes are made from plastic and contribute to microplastic pollution. In this show, our guest Dr. Joanne Brasch, Special Projects Manager for California Product Stewardship Council, walks us through the current state of disposal, shares what prime solutions must exist, and how their organization and others are pushing on policies and legislation that will hold manufacturers accountable, create transparent industry practices, and address social and environmental justice concerns. It is estimated that 100 billion garments are produced each year, while 92 million tons end up in landfills. That is the equivalent of one trash truck full of clothes being dumped into the landfill every second. In 7 years, it is expected that the 92 million discarded tons will increase upwards of 148 million tons according to Fashion Revolution. In the United States, wasted clothing and textiles make up almost 8% of all landfill waste. Many times, textile waste isn't recycled due a complex web of issues from mixed material types to lack of sorting and processing infrastructure. Undesirable clothing donated to thrift stores or dropped off in parking lot collection bins could very well be disguised as second hand clothing that is exported to and dumped on other countries, such as Ghana, Kenya, Chile and more. A recent documentary revealed that 300m items of junk plastic clothing from around the world are dumped in Kenya every year. So what needs to happen to turn the tide on the textile dilemma? LISTEN TO THE EXTENDED INTERVIEW: https://www.patreon.com/posts/joanne-brasch-of-79723489 Dr. Joanne Brasch holds a PhD in Textile Economics and Environmental Analysis from the University of California, Davis, where she also received a Master's degree in Textile Science and a Bachelor's degree in International Agricultural Development. She currently works as Special Project Manager at the California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC) [https://www.calpsc.org/textilestewardship] and has worked for its national spinoff, the National Stewardship Action Council (NSAC). Dr. Brasch is appointed by the state agency CalRecycle to two advisory committees for carpet and mattress recycling where she serves as the chair on both. She made Waste360's 2021 “40 under 40” awardees list. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240SB707 Related Shows: Circular Fashion: Designing for Equity & Environment https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/circular-fashion-designing-for-equity-environment/ The Steep Environmental and Social Costs of the Fashion Industry https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/the-steep-environmental-and-social-costs-of-the-fashion-industry/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=LBGXTRM292TFC&source=url Guest: Dr. Joanne Brasch Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 167

Jessica Aldridge is the Director of Sustainability & Zero Waste Programs at Athens Services, she designs programs for the most challenging waste scenarios, consults with corporate brands, and advances Athens' environmental goals. She leads on Athens' organics and Zero Waste outreach and education programs and hosts/produces EcoJustice Radio an award-winning podcast and radio show (on KPFK Los Angeles and KPFT Houston), presenting environmental and climate stories from a social justice frame.

Is a 100% clean, renewable energy future by the year 2050 possible? Our guest, Stanford Professor Mark Z. Jacobson proposes that the most efficient and socially and environmentally just way is to replace fossil fuels through a combined implementation of Wind, Water, and Solar energy solutions. Are these solutions perfect? No. However, when compared to other so-called energy solutions like nuclear, biofuel, biomass, waste to energy, and hydrogen (just to name a few) these three (Wind, Water-Geothermal, Solar) show significant promise. As our guest explains, real solutions must always be BOTH clean and renewable, rapidly deployable, low cost, and carry with them very few side effects. In this interview, Professor Jacobson responds to his detractors and also debunks some myths, while getting at the solutions. What about the intermittency of wind and solar? Is there enough battery storage? Are wind turbines dangerous to wildlife? What is the real cost of battery mining and disposal? Why don't small nuclear reactors make the cut and how are they dangerous even to global security? How do the proposed costs-benefits of these solutions pencil out when compared to other options and the fossil fuel industry? In his latest book, No Miracles Needed, How Today's Technology Can Save Our Climate and Clean Our Air, Professor Mark Z. Jacobson [https://web.stanford.edu/group/efmh/jacobson/] lays out a clear framework based on peer reviewed studies, and he does so in a way that is easy to understand. Professor Jacobson has developed computer models and roadmaps that illustrate how countries, states, cities, and towns can transition to 100% renewable energy for all their energy needs. He is a man with a clean energy plan, one with a stable and efficient grid that would provide reliable electricity at lower cost while creating new jobs. Mark Z. Jacobson is Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Stanford University, and Director of their Atmosphere/Energy Program. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Public course on 100% renewables: Clean, renewable energy & storage for a sustainable future: https://online.stanford.edu/courses/xeiet100-clean-renewable-energy-storage-sustainable-future New book: "No Miracles Needed": https://web.stanford.edu/group/efmh/jacobson/WWSNoMN/NoMiracles.html Stanford Solutions Project infographic map https://sites.google.com/stanford.edu/wws-roadmaps/home Related Shows: Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Mark Z. Jacobson Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 165

From the late 1800s to the early decades of the 1900s, African Americans started to occupy and steward recreational sites and public spaces throughout the United States, and thus challenged racial hierarchies while expressing Black identity on the social landscape. In her book, ‘Living The California Dream: African American Leisure Sites During The Jim Crow Era', our guest historian Alison Rose Jefferson [http://www.alisonrosejefferson.com] examines how African American leisure sites were a catalyst for economic individualism, political perspectives, and self confidence and broader sense of community for Black society. In our discussion, Alison demonstrates how Black communal practices and economic development around leisure confronted the politics of racial exclusion in recreational spaces. She shares with us some unique stories of these leisure sites, their rich history, and the influence they still have today. Listen to the extended interview - click here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/alison-rose-78372020 Alison Rose Jefferson is a community engaged independent historian and heritage conservation consultant. a third generation Californian, her research interests focus on United States history, the African American experience, historical memory, social justice, and cultural tourism. She is the author of the book, ‘Living The California Dream: African American Leisure Sites During The Jim Crow Era'. in her work she aims to engage broad audiences through applied history projects in the struggle for social justice. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Publications: https://alisonrosejefferson.com/about/publications/ Belmar History+Art Project: https://alisonrosejefferson.com/belmar-history-art-a-santa-monica-commemorative-justice-initiative-continues-rolling-out-2020-2021/ Thanks to Penny Elia and her tireless work on coastal access for all for inspiring this interview. Related Shows: Civil Rights History Conservation in Alabama: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/conserving-civil-rights-history-and-biological-diversity-in-alabama/ Black-Indigenous History in the US: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/intersection-of-black-and-indigenous-resistance-justice-in-the-united-states-ep-123/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Alison Rose Jefferson Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 163 Photo Credit: Alison Rose Jefferson

Fueled by influencers, celebrities, and a wellness community, white sage has become a hot commodity from body products to the infamous smudging sticks of bundled dry leaves. However, most people are unaware that most white sage is poached from the wild and sold on the black market. White sage, also known as salvia apiana, only grows naturally from Southern California to Baja Mexico where it is stolen from the wilds and sold all over the world in boutiques, big box stores, and online. But at what cost? White Sage is deeply rooted in the cultures and lifeways of Indigenous communities within its native range. Barbara Drake, a Tongva elder who passed away in 2020, called it a sacred grandmother plant, a relative. Our guest, Deborah Small, along with Rose Ramirez and the California Native Plant Society, have made the award-winning documentary Saging the World [https://www.cnps.org/conservation/white-sage]to raise awareness and call for action around the protection of white sage. Deborah Small [http://deborahsmall.wordpress.com/] is a gardener, artist, writer, and Professor Emerita in the School of Arts at CalState University San Marcos. She is co-writer of The Ethnobotany Project with Rose Ramirez, and Cooking the Native Way with the Chia Cafe Collective. She is Co-Director and Co-Producer of the Saging the World documentary and campaign. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Flora, the White Sage CNPS magazine issue: https://www.cnps.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Flora-v5n3-Spring-LR.pdf Saging the World Trailer: https://vimeo.com/694109001 “Saging the World” article: https://deborahsmall.wordpress.com/2020/07/30/saging-the-world/ Al Jazeera's 13 minute new video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_KvbfczDQk Samantha Morales-Johnson, Gabrielino-Tongva https://www.instagram.com/native.illustrator/?hl=en and How Celebrities Are Causing a Black Market for White Sage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_KvbfczDQk United Plant Savers Species At-Risk Downloadable List (includes White Sage as one of the at-risk plants) https://unitedplantsavers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/22229-UpS-Species-At-Risk-List-2022-rev-7-22.pdf Related Shows: On Protecting the Joshua Tree and climate change in the desert https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/climate-change-in-the-desert-with-ecologist-james-cornett/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Deborah Small Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats

Jessica Aldridge is the Director of Sustainability & Zero Waste Programs at Athens Services. She is a 15-year waste industry leader and long-time environmental steward having received the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership award, the 2016 inaugural Waste360 award, and a 40 Under 40 designation. As the Director of Sustainability and Zero Waste Programs for Athens Services, she designs programs for the most challenging waste scenarios, consults with corporate brands, and advances Athens' environmental goals. She leads on Athens' organics and Zero Waste outreach and education programs and hosts/produces EcoJustice Radio an award-winning podcast and radio show (on KPFK Los Angeles and KPFT Houston), presenting environmental and climate stories from a social justice frame.

The fossil fuel industry has been promoting hydrogen as a reliable, low carbon, next-generation fuel to power cars, heat homes, and generate electricity. However, currently 99% of the annual supply of hydrogen comes from fracked methane gas. So will switching to hydrogen only lock us into continued fossil fuel use and additional investments in fossil fuel infrastructure? Proponents argue that when hydrogen is made using renewable power it can cut climate-warming industrial carbon pollution from the steel, oil, and agricultural industries. However, does hydrogen measure up when compared to powering our cars and homes with alternative renewable energy generated directly from wind and solar? Our guest, Ashley Kosak, Research and Project Management Fellow with FracTracker Alliance [https://www.fractracker.org/], and CEO of Green Aero [http://greenaero.org], will explain how hydrogen is generated, transported, stored, and burned; the environmental and social impacts; and what it means for the future of clean energy. For an extended interview, click here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/ashley-kosak-on-77020057 Ashley Kosak is a mechanical engineer who started her career as an engineer at SpaceX. She is an advocate for decarbonization for energy and aerospace, consumption reduction, and social advocacy. She now works with FracTracker Alliance to distill complex emerging technologies into a simple process that can be understood by anyone who wishes to be informed of shifts within the clean energy movement. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: Greenwashing Hydrogen Webinar with Ashley: https://halttheharm.net/2022/12/greenwashing-hydrogen-understanding-the-climate-risks-of-blue-hydrogen/ Ashley on her time at SpaceX: https://www.lioness.co/post/at-spacex-we-re-told-we-can-change-the-world-just-don-t-try-to-stop-the-sexual-harassment Related Shows: On Building Decarbonization/Home Electrification: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/zerohouz-ditching-fossil-fuels-for-a-zero-emissions-home/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Ashley Kosak Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats

Devil's urine. That's what Dupont employees called PFAS. These toxic, human made forever chemicals are now in the blood of almost every human on the planet. They are found in drinking water around the world, even Antarctica. And they are used in a broad range of consumer products, like non-stick cookware, stain-resistant clothing, waterproof items, dental floss, and even medical masks. These are only a few examples of many. This group of toxic chemicals, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), permanently concentrates in your body and the environment. You can't get rid of them. In fact, they bioaccumulate, meaning they get worse and worse. The public awareness from uncovering of the truth behind Dupont's misdeeds now contaminating much of the planet is tantamount to this generation's Silent Spring. Our guest Rob Bilott is very much a Rachel Carson sort of figure who has stood up to the chemical industry as the lead attorney to bring light to the dangers of PFAS and its many variations. He fought and won a 20+ year battle against Dupont for the poisoning of over 70,000 people in West Virginia and Ohio. His work was even captured in the 2019 feature film, Dark Waters where he was portrayed by Mark Ruffalo. In this interview from Summer 2022, we explore the history of PFAS, what exposure means, where it can be found, and what we can do. For an extended discussion, click here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extended-with-on-70223811 Rob Bilott is a partner in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky offices of the law firm, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP [https://www.taftlaw.com/people/robert-a-bilott], where he has practiced in the Environmental and Litigation Groups for over 31 years. During that time, Rob has handled and led some of the most novel and complex cases in the country involving damage from exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”), including the first individual, class action, mass tort, and multi-district litigation proceedings concerning the toxic chemical, recovering over $1 billion for impacted clients. In 2017, Rob received the Right Livelihood Award, known as the “Alternative Nobel Prize,” for his decades of work on behalf of those injured by PFAS chemical contamination. Rob is the author of the book, “Exposure: Poisoned Water, Corporate Greed, and One Lawyer's Twenty-Year Battle Against DuPont,” [https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Exposure/Robert-Bilott/9781501172823] and his story is the inspiration for the 2019 motion picture, “Dark Waters,” starring Mark Ruffalo. Rob's story and work is also featured in the documentary, “The Devil We Know.” Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info: Book: Exposure: Poisoned Water, Corporate Greed, and One Lawyer's Twenty-Year Battle Against DuPont https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Exposure/Robert-Bilott/9781501172823 Feature Film: Dark Waters https://www.focusfeatures.com/dark-waters Documentary: The Devil We Know https://www.amazon.com/Devil-We-Know-Bucky-Bailey/dp/B07J35G3P4 Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/exposing-pfas-global-contamination-one-lawyers-battle-for-justice/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Rob Bilott Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Episode 145

The proliferation of suburban sprawl, built where wildlife live and thrive, threatens the safety and genetic diversity of wild animals and plant species. Migrating wildlife of all shapes and sizes must contend with humans driving on the 4.8 million miles of roads in the US, facing the danger of colliding with vehicles. Aside from driving less, one strategy to mitigate these accidents has gained bipartisan acceptance: providing wildlife crossings that facilitate connectivity for a diverse group of species. Not all wildlife crossings are simple bridges or tunnels, and our guest Beth Pratt, California Regional Executive Director of National Wildlife Federation, has been championing for years what will become the world's largest urban wildlife crossing, planned for suburban Los Angeles. And she worked for years to support the most famous mountain lion ever, P-22, who had to be euthanized this month after he lost his long battle for survival navigating freeways and suburbia in the Los Angeles hills. Beth Pratt joined us earlier this year to discuss the importance of connectivity and wildlife crossings. She explained why they are an integral strategy in land and habitat conservation and why preserving biodiversity not only protects wildlife, but also all of us humans. LISTEN TO THE EXTE4NDED VERSION: https://www.patreon.com/posts/room-to-roam-of-62124923 Beth's Website: www.bethpratt.com/ Save LA Cougars: https://savelacougars.org/ Beth Pratt has worked in environmental leadership roles for more than twenty-five years, and in two of the biggest national parks: Yosemite and Yellowstone. As the California Regional Executive Director for the National Wildlife Federation, she leads the #SaveLACougars campaign to build the largest wildlife crossing in North America—and potentially the world—to help save a population of mountain lions from extinction. Her work has been featured by the New Yorker, the Wall Street Journal, BBC World Service, CBS This Morning, the Los Angeles Times, and NPR. She is the author of three books, the most recent, Yosemite Wildlife, will be released in 2023. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Beth Pratt Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 126

What would it take to transform a 100 year old house sitting near oil fields into the most sustainable clean energy zero-emissions house? That was the challenge our guest, architect Avideh Haghighi, took up with her personal project she named ZeroHouz [http://www.zerohouz.com]. We discuss the dangers of gas appliances inside homes and why people should consider replacing - and how to replace - their “natural” gas (or some people call it fossil gas) stove, furnace, air conditioning and water heater with electric appliances. We also look into why a transition to clean energy in your home or apartment is not a one-size-fits-all question and share tips on how to get started. Does Net Zero Energy have a Net Benefit for the climate and our personal health? What happens when our homes become a place for climate action and environmental responsibility by promoting energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. For the extended discussion, listen here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/zerohouz-with-75883321 Avideh Haghighi is a Registered Architect with a passion for transforming the built environment towards a net positive impact. She has a decade of experience and a diverse portfolio of work spanning public and private sectors, including the State's largest Net Zero Carbon building currently under construction. Recently she has turned her attention to the single family housing market, recognizing the need for resources and innovation to decarbonize the existing housing stock. She is applying her knowledge from designing and constructing zero energy commercial buildings to the all-electric deep green retrofit of a 99 year old house dubbed 'Zerohouz'. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info/Resources: https://switchison.org/ https://www.cleanenergyconnection.org/ https://www.redwoodenergy.net/research/a-pocket-guide-to-all-electric-retrofits-of-single-family-homes Find Oil Wells near You: https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/doggr/wellfinder/#openModal/-118.21152/33.77232/14 Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Avideh Haghighi Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats

The Gulf Coast of Louisiana and Texas face a petrochemical and fracked gas export boom. Super-heat-charged hurricanes strike almost every year. As a result, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Low-Income Communities, face an interrelated number of issues including environmental justice; voting suppression; and access to housing, healthcare, clean water, energy, and safe fresh produce, just to name a few. In this encore presentation, our guest, Roishetta Ozane, started the Vessel Project of Louisiana [https://www.vesselprojectoflouisiana.com/] to assist the most vulnerable communities by meeting their emergency needs in times of crisis. As an organizer for the nonprofit Healthy Gulf [https://healthygulf.org/team-member/20227/], her work includes stopping a rush of new fossil fuel facilities slated for the Southwest Louisiana region. If the fossil fuel companies get their way, 17 new Liquefied Natural Gas export terminals would be built nationwide, most of them in the Gulf of Mexico, which will guarantee more climate chaos for the entire planet. Roishetta's mix of building community, inspiring mutual aid, and organizing in solidarity with environmental justice leaders and regional and national nonprofits, brings hope to overcoming this managed chaos. For an extended interview with Roishetta, go here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/vessel-for-ep-69539449 Roishetta Sibley Ozane has over a decade of experience representing organizations as a community outreach specialist. Not only is she the founder, director and CEO of The Vessel Project of Louisiana, she is the Clean Energy Organizing Director with Healthy Gulf [https://healthygulf.org/] for the Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas region. Roishetta is also She Leads Fellow alum and Environmental Justice Coordinator for the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice [https://powercoalition.org/], where she empowers women of color to go out into their communities and make positive change. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Roishetta Ozane Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Created by: Mark and JP Morris Episode 143 Photo Credit: Roishetta Ozane

Microplastics, small, micro sized plastic fragments are showing up in our water sources, rain, drinking water, and beverages like beer. It is in food, salt, and seafood. Moreover, it has recently been found in human breast milk, placentas, human lungs, and blood. One report indicated that blue whales are consuming 10 million pieces of microplastic particles a day. As plastic fragments, it continues to shed fibers smaller than a strand of human hair. Most the time we are unaware how and when this happens. Did you know, when you open a plastic cap on a bottle, you release 1000s of particles. But then there is also our clothing, roads, artificial turf, food packaging, tea bags, or plastic that comes in contact with friction, hot liquid, or hot food. Our guest Dr. Scott Coffin [https://scottcoff.in/] has been studying plastic since 2014. He is a toxicologist and Research Scientist at California State Water Resources Control Board speaks about how microplastics are entering our environment, what solutions are being put in place to assess risk and implement precautionary solutions, and how we might limit our own exposure. The biggest human body entry point for micro plastics isn't our water, food packaging, or clothing (which are still of great concern), it is the air we breathe. Plastics and their chemical additives can be toxic, of the more than 10,000 unique chemicals used in plastics, more than 2,400 are of potential concern, most of which are unregulated. So should we be worried about micro plastic in the environment and our bodies? What is the average level of human exposure? And is there enough evidence to prove that a health risk exists? Dr. Scott Coffin is a research scientist and subject-matter expert for microplastics at the California State Water Resources Control Board, where he leads the agency's efforts to monitor and manage microplastics pollution in drinking water and the environment. Dr. Coffin holds a PhD in environmental toxicology from the University of California, Riverside, and has been studying plastic's impacts on the environment since 2014. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. For the extended discussion with Dr, Coffin, click here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/more-on-and-with-74660652 More Info: https://www.sccwrp.org/about/research-areas/additional-research-areas/trash-pollution/microplastics-health-effects-webinar-series/history-california-microplastics-legislation/ https://www.plastiverse.org/ https://www.springeropen.com/collections/sccwrp Related Show: The EcoJustice Radio Plastic Plague Series: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/the-future-solutions-policy-resistance-around-plastic-plastic-plague-pt-7/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Dr. Scott Coffin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats

Just as we analyze the impacts of our food and energy use, equally important is understanding from where our clothes originate, their environmental and social impacts, and how to dispose of them in an environmentally responsible manner. According to a 2017 Ellen MacArthur Foundation report, every second on this planet, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of clothing and textiles is landfilled or burned. On this show we interview Karri Ann Frerichs, CEO and Founder of Circular Fashion LA [http://www.circularfashionla.com/] whose mission is to give new life and add more value to clothing and to help customers keep loving the clothes they already own for much longer. Circular fashion moves away from single use products and services that don't reflect the true cost of an item; spoiler there is no such thing as a truly $10 t-shirt. Circular fashion is a system where the design of our clothing and personal belongings considers both the production of an item and the end of its life as of equal importance. It rethinks the linear “take-make-dispose” model and instead asks the industry to prioritize responsible materials, manufacturing, labor, use, and end-of-life for every garment. Karri Ann Frerichs has been a fashion industry entrepreneur and innovator since 2008, working in retail management, wholesale distribution, brand development and apparel manufacturing, with a focus on zero-waste, regenerative product development. She has taught the Business of Fashion to university students since 2010 and in her current position at Woodbury University, has also spearheaded the addition of Circular Economy curriculum since 2019. In 2020, she became an Ellen MacArthur Foundation Circular Economy Pioneer and mentor to the From Linear to Circular Programme, and also launched the Los Angeles Chapter of the Circular Economy Club. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info: http://laincubator.org/startups Related Show: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/the-steep-environmental-and-social-costs-of-the-fashion-industry/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Kari Ann Frerichs CEO and Founder of Circular Fashion LA, A Social Purpose Corporation. Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Board Operator: J.P. Morris

The poetry of Matt Sedillo [https://www.mattsedillo.com/] -- a fearless, challenging and at times even confrontational blend of humor, history and political theory -- is at times a shot in the arm of pure revolutionary adrenaline. It also is a sobering call for the fundamental restructuring of society in the interest of people not profits. Passionate, analytical, humorous and above all sincere, Matt's poetry revolution is a clarion call for those who know a new world is not only possible but inevitable. Matt Sedillo has been described in ROAR Magazine as one of the most important working-class intellectuals of our time. On this encore presentation, Matt discusses his latest book, City on the Second Floor, published by Flowersong Press [https://www.flowersongpress.com/store/poetry]. He is a Poet and Writer in Residence at Re Arte and also author of 'Mowing Leaves of Grass'. Author Paul Ortiz wrote "Matt Sedillo's poetic work is full of history, struggle, tragedy, anger, joy, despair, possibility and faith in the struggles of working class people to overcome the forces of capitalism and racism. Matt Sedillo also has been called the "best political poet in America" as well as "the poet laureate of the struggle" by academics, poets, and journalists alike. He has appeared on CSPAN and has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, among other publications. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Listen to the Extended Version: https://www.patreon.com/posts/poetry-and-with-73402113 He is also a returning guest of EcoJustice Radio; check out episode 105 where he and fellow poet Awa Ndiaye discuss Spoken Word: Challenging Mainstream Discourse on Climate. https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/spoken-word-challenging-mainstream-discourse-on-climate/ To buy Matt Sedillo's latest book, 'City on the Second Floor': https://www.amazon.com/City-Second-Floor-Matt-Sedillo/dp/1953447899 Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Episode 129 Image: Matt Sedillo

On this show we explore the world of Shelterwood Collective [http://www.shelterwoodcollective.org], a Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ-led community forest and retreat center that seeks to heal people and ecosystems through active stewardship and community engagement. Recently they took on the role of stewards for 900 acres of forest in Sonoma County, California, on Unceded Kashaya and Southern Pomo territory. Our guest is Layel Camargo, Co Founder & Co Executive Director of Shelterwood Collective. We explore what it means and why it is important to heal self and environment through land management, shaping culture change, and narrative shifting (also sought by story telling). Shelterwood Collective believes that ecosystem health can only be achieved by communities who are in deep relationship with the Earth and with one another. The work of Shelterwood Collective extends beyond the forest edge through training & programming focused on antiracism, decolonizing conservation, inspiring resilient leadership, promoting artistic expression, and community health. For the extended interview, click here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/extended-with-72808679 Layel Camargo is a non binary and trans person uses they/them pronouns . They are an indigenous descendant of the Yaqui and Yoeme tribes of the Sonoran Desert. Co founder and co executive director of Shelterwood Collective, a land stewardship project building a retreat center and artist residency. In the last 10 years they have been a champion of Zero Waste, veganism, and a cultural organizer and producer for podcasts such as 'Did We Go Too Far?' & 'Climate Woke'. In 2020 they were named on the Grist Fixers List of Climate Activists to follow. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. More Info: Grist: https://grist.org/fix/arts-culture/2021-intersectional-future-for-the-climate-movement/ Cultural Power: https://www.culturalpower.org/stories/trail-ahead-layel-camargo/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/reclaiming-land-culture-narrative-through-black-indigenous-queer-stewardship/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Layel Camargo Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt

The Gulf Coast of Louisiana and Texas face a petrochemical and fracked gas export boom. Super-heat-charged hurricanes strike almost every year. As a result, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Low-Income Communities, face an interrelated number of issues including environmental justice; voting suppression; and access to housing, healthcare, clean water, energy, and safe fresh produce, just to name a few. Our guest, Roishetta Ozane, started the Vessel Project of Louisiana [https://www.vesselprojectoflouisiana.com/] to assist the most vulnerable communities by meeting their emergency needs in times of crisis. As an organizer for the nonprofit Healthy Gulf [https://healthygulf.org/team-member/20227/], her work includes stopping a rush of new fossil fuel facilities slated for the Southwest Louisiana region. If the fossil fuel companies get their way, 17 new Liquefied Natural Gas export terminals would be built nationwide, most of them in the Gulf of Mexico, which will guarantee more climate chaos for the entire planet. Roishetta's mix of building community, inspiring mutual aid, and organizing in solidarity with environmental justice leaders and regional and national nonprofits, brings hope to overcoming this managed chaos. Roishetta Sibley Ozane has over a decade of experience representing organizations as a community outreach specialist. Not only is she the founder, director and CEO of The Vessel Project of Louisiana, she is the Clean Energy Organizing Director with Healthy Gulf [https://healthygulf.org/] for the Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas region. Roishetta is also She Leads Fellow alum and Environmental Justice Coordinator for the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice [https://powercoalition.org/], where she empowers women of color to go out into their communities and make positive change. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. For an extended version of this interview and other benefits, become an EcoJustice Radio patron at https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Check out our related interview with activist John Beard on Port Arthur, Texas: https://wilderutopia.com/ecojustice-radio/port-arthur-texas-community-resistance-vs-the-climate-change-nexus/ More Info: https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/2021-6-winter/feature/halting-gas-export-boom https://lailluminator.com/2022/07/12/as-peak-hurricane-season-looms-banks-bolster-cozy-relationship-with-fossil-fuel-industry/ Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Roishetta Ozane Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Created by: Mark and JP Morris Episode 143 Photo Credit: Roishetta Ozane

The act of composting ensures that food scraps and green waste are never wasted, but returned to enrich the soil. It sequesters carbon, and helps to minimize greenhouse gas emissions from landfills. Furthermore, it also enriches the community, creating cooperative human networks, inclusive spaces, and green jobs. Our guest Michael Martinez, Founder and Executive Director of LA Compost [http://www.lacompost.org], illustrates how composting should and can be available to everyone (no matter if you are in an apartment or single family home). We explore how his organization has grown a successful urban composting model by developing spaces and collaborations with a wide variety of partners including the community, nonprofits, business, and city departments. For an extended version of this interview and other benefits, become an EcoJustice Radio patron at https://www.patreon.com/posts/soulful-to-urban-68931890 LA Compost cultivates community through their extensive network of accessible compost hubs including food-scrap drop-off locations and urban composting sites. They have even set up infrastructure at Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. Composting is an act of social justice; supporting food security and localized food systems. This, in turn, improves the environment by implementing restorative practices, which can mitigate negative health impacts and empower communities. Michael Martinez, Founder and Executive Director of LA Compost - Michael is a former elementary school teacher, a father of two, and the Founder and Executive Director of LA Compost. Michael has grown LA Compost from a group of volunteers collecting organics using bikes, to a decentralized network of community compost hubs that span the most populated county in the country. LA Compost now oversees over 40 compost hubs, all in partnership with existing communities, nonprofits, and organizations committed to healthy ecosystems , while also honoring the community's perspective, lived experience, and leadership. Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Michael Martinez Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Created by: Mark and JP Morris Episode 141 Photo Credit: LA Compost

This week we look into the truth about compostable foodservice and packaging with Erin Levine, Resource Recovery Manager at World Centric [https://www.worldcentric.com/]. We delve into environmental concerns, what is actually biodegradable, how fossil fuel dependence fits into the game, and whether we should focus instead on reusable cups, bags, flatware, etc. We also talk about organics waste, which includes yard waste and plant trimmings, food scraps, and food soiled paper. At approx. 40%, organic matter is the largest contributor of material in the landfill. Waste food makes up around 20%. When this material starts to slowly decompose it creates the 3rd largest source of human related methane emissions in the USA according to the EPA. Methane is a climate super pollutant up to 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Diverting wasted organics away from landfills and into systems like compost can not only reduce methane emissions, it supports healthier soils, stronger plants, and cleaner air through carbon sequestration. Composting is a climate oriented solution that we need and can enact immediately. That being said, business and public participation in accurately separating organic waste so that it can be composted is key to collecting and processing this material, especially wasted food. So by using compostable foodware can we divert more food from landfill, reduce ghg emissions, and lessen the consumption of single use plastics? *Erin Levine is the Resource Recovery Manager at World Centric, manufacturer of compostable products. Erin has been involved with resource recovery for 18 years and in the last decade has focused specifically on the sales and marketing of finished compost. She has supported commercial compost facilities throughout the West Coast and has worked closely with the end users of compost, particularly the agricultural industry. Erin is a Certified Composting Professional through the US Composting Council and a Certified Compost Programs Manager through the Solid Waste Authority of North America. *Jessica Aldridge, Co-Host and Producer of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and 15-year waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She is a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and an award recipient of the international 2021 Women in Sustainability Leadership and the 2016 inaugural Waste360, 40 Under 40. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Guest: Erin Levine, Resource Recovery Manager at World Centric. Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Created by: Mark and JP Morris Episode 139 Photo Credit: Down2EarthMaterials.ie

Each US resident creates an average of 4.5 to 4.9 pounds of trash per day. For many, once it's in the garbage can, it's out of sight, out of mind. However, what if we lived our daily lives walking around with the waste we created? Not throwing it into a trash or recycling can, but having to carry our waste with us wherever we go. Would this change our perception? For 30 days, Environmental Activist Rob Greenfield [http://robgreenfield.org/] has been doing just that, wearing a suit that holds the waste he creates on a daily basis. He has set out to walk the streets in his suit to bring awareness to the amount of trash people create and inspire others to reduce, reuse, repair, refill, recycle, and of course, let the food scraps rot. His message is also one of rethinking – change the system that has made plastic ubiquitous and also encourages a throw away mentality. Rob has become a social media sensation by undertaking living experiments to inspire people to live sustainably and take personal and collective responsibility in solving environmental challenges. He has documented his bike rides across the US and South America; built and lived for years in tiny houses in San Diego, CA and Orlando, FL; and subsisted for a year growing his own food. Rob Greenfield is an activist and humanitarian dedicated to leading the way to a more sustainable and just world. He embarks on extreme projects to bring attention to important global issues and inspire positive change. In a time when many feel disempowered, he believes that our actions really do matter and that as individuals and communities we have the power to improve the world around us. He is wearing the 30 days of his trash to bring awareness to the amount of waste created on a daily basis. Jessica Aldridge, co-host of EcoJustice Radio, is an environmental educator, community organizer, and waste industry leader. She is a co-founder of SoCal 350, organizer for ReusableLA, and founded Adventures in Waste. She has worked for 15 years as a Zero Waste professional, a former professor of Recycling and Resource Management at Santa Monica College, and is a recipient of the inaugural Waste Expo 40 Under 40 award. Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast - Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/ecojusticeradio Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Created by: Mark and JP Morris Episode 136 Photo credit: Jack Eidt

Hello Gintalkers on today's episode: We are live from the 2nd Annual BBU's (Black Businesses United) Block Party that was held in Columbus, GA. We are on scene doing live interviews with some of the Tri-City best business owners. We have interviews from Tasha Magana owner of Doris' Daughter Private Chef and catering, Shana Rutledge owner of Savory Sips and Tipsytails. Also we on spot interviews with Mr Davian Chester of Real Toons. And Mr Bronson McBride of B Good Clothing Company and Mrs Natasha McBride of Ethereal Glow. And a very power interview with Ashley Harris from Teen Resource 5 a nonprofit organization out of Columbus, GA. We would like to thank BBU's President Jessica Aldridge and Vice President Christian Reliford for inviting us out to this amazing event. We hope you all enjoy this episode

On this week's episode of GinTalk we are joined by The President of Black Businesses United (BBU) Jessica Aldridge of Columbus, Ga we discuss her nonprofit Organization Black Business United (BBU) and their mission to unify black businesses across the Tri-City area. Thinking big and putting goals into action. And the overall mission to take the organization global. We also discuss her amazing board of directors: Jessica Aldridge- BBU, KGLOW SKINCARE, & 0508Solutions Sharena Smith, licensed esthetician- Snatched Beauty Christian Reliford- Trap n' Healthy Kito Perry- Perry Residential Solutions Terri Eaddy- FaceTime Terri Jennifer Frazier- SoGorgeouslyFit Ehren Robinson- Sumo's Printing Kaylana Norris- Royal Mama Kymia Haywood- Mama Mia Bronson McBride- B GOOD CLOTHING Kurstyn Jolly- Jolly Girl Curls Brandy Kennedy- The Brandy K Shanell Johnson- Mocha Madame Cathy Carter- Pump It Up With Poe Danielle Patterson- Divine Taste & Sweets Gary Jackson- Fourann Life Photography And we also discuss her others businesses. We discuss the power of manifestation and talking your goals and dreams into existence. And on the second part is the Club scene dead or have we changed? We want to thank everyone for listening and the supporting us you guys are the best!!!

The President of Black Businesses United Jessica Aldridge stops by to enlighten us about the power of unity, business, entrepreneurship, and more!

The President of Black Businesses United Jessica Aldridge stops by to enlighten us about the power of unity, business, entrepreneurship, and more!

The 51-mile Los Angeles River, more known for its barren stretches of concrete, is undergoing a long-term Master Planned greening and revitalization. Big questions remain about how to restore biodiversity, provide water resiliency in the face of climate disruption, and protect the local neighborhoods from green gentrification that has already presented problems along sections of the river. On this show, our host Jessica Aldridge is joined by representatives from a coalition of organizations, Friends of the Los Angeles River [http://folar.org], Heal the Bay [http://www.healthebay.org], and East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice (EYCEJ) [http://eycej.org/]. The coalition has concerns with the plan’s vision, lack of community input, human rights, and environmental protections. *Liliana Griego serves as Director of Policy, Advocacy, and Engagement for Friends of the LA River. As a native Angelino who grew up along the Arroyo Seco, she has had an intimate relationship with LA’s living waterways and uses her story and scientific background to advocate for a healthy, resilient, and equitably accessible LA River. *Katherine Pease, Director of Science & Policy for Heal the Bay, has a background in biology, receiving her undergraduate degree from Barnard and her PhD from UCLA. She became passionate about protecting our local rivers and streams through her graduate research on tadpoles in the Santa Monica Mountains and visits to the LA River. Katherine has been at Heal the Bay for nine years, working to make our coastal waters and watersheds safe, healthy, and clean. *Jessica Prieto, Community Stability Policy Organizer for EYCEJ, was born and raised in East Los Angeles and has a Masters of Urban and Regional Planning from UCLA Luskin. She has extensive experience working at the grassroots level on various planning issues and their impact on communities of color. She has been an EYCEJ member since 2015, and currently leads EYCEJ's community stability efforts throughout Southeast LA cities. -Comment portal for the Master Plan: https://folar.org/county-plan/ -Link to Facebook recording of advocacy training by HtB, FoLAR, EYCEJ: https://www.facebook.com/295656805868/videos/3706811629406761 -Guardian piece highlights how CBOs like East Yard need to hold polluters and agencies accountable. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/mar/19/citizen-regulators-epa-pollution-environment -LA Times write-up on the action at the federal courthouse after the Exide bankruptcy was announced: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-10-19/exide-cleanup-bankruptcy-march -Article: http://folar.org/county-plan Podcast Website: http://ecojusticeradio.org/ Podcast Blog: https://www.wilderutopia.com/category/ecojustice-radio/ Support the Podcast: https://socal350.org/contribute-to-socal-350-climate-action/ Host and Producer: Jessica Aldridge Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 95 Image: William Preston Bowling

The events of 2020, from the pandemic to the uprising, have made the upcoming election a pivotal moment in time. In particular, the Black and Brown communities of South Los Angeles, facing generations of systemic racism and growing inequality, demand a new way forward with political leaders having the opportunity to bring forward solutions to police violence, environmental injustice, and social and economic mismanagement and exploitation. But can political leaders overcome the corporate money that prioritizes industry over people, profits over community? In this episode we get to know one of the candidates running for California Assembly for South Los Angeles, Fatima Iqbal-Zubair. The incumbent Assemblymember Mike Gipson was asked to be on the show but did return our requests. Fatima’s campaign platform is founded on ending systemic racism by prioritizing clean air, water, and food; supporting affordable housing and ending homelessness; pushing for health care for all; and reforming our education system, criminal justice, and immigration. She says she is running to uplift the voices in her community, not the special interests that run the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and the multiple oil refineries and drilling sites in the area, that have dominated business as usual in the district. Her goal is economic justice and a just transition to a green economy with full employment. Fatima Iqbal-Zubair, candidate for California Assembly District 64 [https://fatimaforassembly.com/], is a public school teacher in Watts, an immigrant, and a community advocate. Essay by Fatima: https://knock-la.com/we-are-at-a-tipping-point-liberation-and-nothing-less-f7f4e4de30de Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from Adventures in Waste [http://adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 76

TUNE IN! Guests Andrea Leon Grossman from AZUL [http://azul.org/en/] and Conner Everts from Southern California Watershed Alliance discuss the proposal by Poseidon Water Company to build a $1 billion desalination plant in Huntington Beach, California. When the price tag is more than 2x the cost of our current water system, is desal necessary? Can existing and future conservation opportunities provide the solutions necessary to ensure local water resilience in California and elsewhere? Paid for by taxpayers and ratepayers to privatize water, this industrial project would erode the #HumanRightToWater, kill marine life and it will run on dirty energy for decades to come. They already received $585 million from Trump's EPA and applied for $1.1 billion in CDLAC funds from California that usually go to build affordable housing. More Info: https://www.smarterwaterla.org/ Andrea Leon-Grossman, Director of Climate Action at AZUL, is a Mexican-born immigrant who works with the Latinx community to protect and conserve our coasts and oceans. She has always been passionate about fighting for environmental and social justice, and has been involved with immigrant rights, juvenile justice, animal rights, and of course, environmental groups, for nearly two decades. Conner Everts, Executive Director of the Southern California Watershed Alliance [http://ewccalifornia.org/staff/] and Co-Chair of the Desal Response Group [https://www.facebook.com/pages/Desal-Response-Group/514608058614252], has spent a lifetime in pursuit of clean water, first as a Southern California steelhead fisherman and then in the quest of the Human Right to Water. He is currently co-chair of the Southern California Water Dialogue, the Green LA Water Committee and as an elder advisor to the Environmental Justice Coalition for Water and Amigos de los Rios. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from Adventures in Waste [http://adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 74

Guest Kwazi Nkrumah from the MLK Coalition for Greater Los Angeles [http://mlkcoalitionforjobsjusticeandpeace.org/] discusses with host Jessica Aldridge how unity and mass mobilization across all movements is necessary for social change and an equitable future. He speaks to how we effectively do this in an inclusive manner across interests and issues that considers priorities, roadblocks, and better relationship building. We address concerns of derailment and demobilization, and look to how we can shield and grow from those movements. ~ Kwazi Nkrumah is the Co-Chair of MLK Coalition of Greater Los Angeles for Jobs, Justice, and Peace. Kwazi is a nationally respected community and labor organizer, and a human and environmental rights activist and advocate. Over the years he has been a successful leader for economic justice efforts on behalf of tenants, homeowners, and working people. Further reading on anti-racist organizing: Robert L. Allen: "Reluctant Reformers: Racism and Social Reform Movements in the United States" - https://www.amazon.com/Reluctant-Reformers-Racism-Social-Movements/dp/0882580264 Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from Adventures in Waste [http://adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 72

Martha Arguello of Physicians for Social Responsibility Los Angeles [https://www.psr-la.org/] discusses with host Jessica Aldridge neighborhood oil drilling, the call for a 2,500 ft. health and safety buffer, and how community mobilization is addressing the climate emergency and ensuring public health and environmental protection. Martha leads the coalition Stand Together Against Neighborhood Drilling in Los Angeles [https://www.stand.la/]. They work in a statewide coalition dedicated to buffers as well called Voices in Solidarity Against Oil in Neighborhoods [https://www.vision-ca.org/]. With California being one of the largest oil-producing states in the USA, community based solutions and industry accountability is vital to protecting the most vulnerable and building resilience. In Los Angeles, there are 759 active oil wells less than 1,500 feet from homes, schools, churches, and hospitals; these being predominantly in low-income and communities of color who face disproportionate health and safety impacts from their frontline exposure. Martha Arguello is the Executive Director with Physicians for Social Responsibility Los Angeles. For the past 32 years, she has served in the non-profit sector as an advocate, community organizer, and coalition builder. She joined PSR-LA in 1998 to launch the environmental health programs, and became Executive Director in November 2007. She is committed to making the credible voice of physicians a powerful instrument for transforming California and our planet into a more peaceful and healthy place. Sign this petition: https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/vote-yes-on-ab-345?source=direct_link&referrer=group-socal-350 Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from Adventures in Waste [http://adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 71 Photo courtesy of STAND-LA

Reverend Eddie Anderson discusses the People’s Budget Los Angeles [https://peoplesbudgetla.com/] with our host Jessica Aldridge. He defines what it means to re-imagine policing and public safety, and how to ensure reinvestment back into Black communities. The institutions that run the USA continue to benefit from the repercussions of long-standing, systemic oppression and racism. How do we reinvent and re-imagine the power structures? How do we change the economic system and fund a budget that is community-centered? Tune in to find out more! Reverend Edward L. Anderson is a social activist and ordained minister serving McCarty Memorial Christian Church [http://www.mccartychurch.org/] in West Adams, Los Angeles. Anderson is an active advocate for Black Lives Matter, a convener and Co-Chair of the New Poor People's Campaign in California and is a Bethany and Preston Taylor Fellow. Black Los Angeles Demands: https://www.blmla.org/newsfeed/2020/4/16/black-los-angeles-demands-in-light-of-covid-19-and-rates-of-black-death Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from Adventures in Waste [http://adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 68

Plastic Plague Series: PART 7 (of 7) THE FUTURE: how Solutions, Policy, & Resistance around plastic can elevate, inspire, and drive change at a systems-level approach. Our guests, Matt Prindiville of Upstream Solutions, Sam Pearse of Story of Stuff, and Emily Parker of Heal the Bay, speak with our host, Jessica Aldridge of Adventures in Waste. There is no one silver-bullet solution or intervention point. The story of plastic we knew from the 1970s and 80s is a different story than what we know today. The finger of responsibility no longer points only at the consumer, but we all have the opportunity to play our role when it comes to creating and demanding the future we want to see. We are up against a take and make economy [that not only ends up disposing of packaging, but also energy, water, resources, and PEOPLE!] where packaging is not the only disposable, but so is energy, water, resources, and PEOPLE! How do we create the change and connect the dots for everyone who uses, disposes of, or is in some way effected by plastic. Matt Prindiville, Imagineer & CEO of Upstream [https://www.upstreamsolutions.org/], is a recognized thought leader within the plastic pollution community and advises the United Nations Environment Program on their plastic pollution strategies. He is one of the founders of the global Break Free from Plastic Movement and the founder of the Cradle2 Coalition and Take It Make It Campaign. Sam Pearse, Lead Campaigner of The Story of Stuff Project [https://www.storyofplastic.org/], is working at the intersection of storytelling, plastics policy, and corporate campaigning. He comes from a background of campaigning on environmental, human rights, and security issues. Emily Parker, Coastal and Marine Scientist for Heal the Bay [https://healthebay.org/], works to protect our coastal and marine resources. Her work focuses on plastic pollution, marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and climate change. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste [adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Producer: Georgia Tunioli Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 66 Photo Credit:

Plastic Plague Series: PART 6 (of 7) THE PARADIGM SHIFT - we explore how reduction, recycling, and technology can create a paradigm shift that is solution oriented, equitable, and achievable. Our guests include Claire Arkin, from GAIA (Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives), Marcus Eriksen of 5 Gyres Institute, and Keng Baloco, of Athens Services. There is too much plastic production for recycling to be the end-all-be-all solution to our problems, not to mention the inequity from its creation to disposal. However, waste-to-energy, chemical recycling, and plastic-to-fuel also have their concerns and might not be the winning silver bullet. Solutions best laid are community oriented and do not compromise the needs of future generations. So who is responsible for shifting the norm? Is it consumers, business, or manufacturers? How do we create community-based solutions? And how do these solutions around reuse and recycling weather issues and concerns related to virus spread and pandemics like COVID-19. Tune in to hear from the experts. Claire Arkin is the Communications Coordinator at GAIA (Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives) [http://www.no-burn.org]. Her work has been featured in such outlets as The Guardian, Resource-Recycling and the San Francisco Chronicle. She recently coordinated a global investigative project called “Discarded” that documented impacts of the global plastic waste trade on communities in Southeast Asia. Marcus Eriksen, 5 Gyres Institute [https://www.5gyres.org] – Research Director and Co-Founder. As an environmental scientists publishing the first global estimate of plastics in the world’s oceans, and co-discovering microbeads in the Great Lakes, Marcus and his team use research to inform campaigns aimed at changing the systems that pollute the planet and communities. Keng Baloco, Commodity Sales and Logistics Manager, Athens Services [https://athensservices.com/] has 13 years of experience in the waste and recycling industry. She currently markets commodities to domestic and international markets, finding homes for post-consumer plastic, fiber, metal, glass and other commodities. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste [adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Producer: Georgia Tunioli Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 64 Photo Credit: Adam Dean/GAIA

Plastic Plague Series: PART 5 (of 7) THE BOTTLE SCAM - we connect the dots between the Water Bottle Scam and the fight for Land, Water, and Indigenous Rights. Our guests include Stiv Wilson, Co-Director of @peakplastic and Creator and Producer of the film, The Story of Plastic [https://www.storyofplastic.org/] and Raven Stevens, Board Member of W.A.T.E.R. (We Advocate Thorough Environmental Review) [http://cawater.net/] The chain of environmental and social impacts is an embedded cost of bottled water, a resource that is supposed to give us life, but now arguably the process to extract, make, ship, store, and dispose seems to take from it. Clean, reliable, and free water should be available to all. Companies want us to fear our tap water and sell us “solutions,” increasing our dependency on bottled water by providing something that was once free, but now costs us $2k times more. That isn’t a surprise when Pepsi has been quoted saying, “the biggest enemy is tap water.” With a ½ billion bottles used and disposed of every week in the United States, while land and water resources are stolen and polluted it is time to close the tap on the Bottle Scam. The solution isn’t as easy as switching over to a reusable water bottle. Stiv Wilson, is an award winning activist, filmmaker, and educator working at the nexus of marine conservation, plastic pollution, petrochemical production and human rights. After completing 35,000 nautical miles sailing the world to study marine plastic pollution, Stiv co-authored the first ever global estimate of the abundance of plastics in all of the major five oceans in the peer reviewed journal, PLOS ONE. Stiv is the Co-founder of Break Free from Plastic [https://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/] and Creator and Producer of the film, The Story of Plastic. Website: https://www.storyofplastic.org/ Twitter https://twitter.com/AgentStiv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peakplastic/ Raven Stevens is a Water Protector and Community Advocate, living in Mt. Shasta, California. She is working with W.A.T.E.R. (We Advocate Thorough Environmental Review) and the local community to stop industrial water extraction in and around Mt. Shasta. Raven Stevens is a spokesperson for the Gateway Neighborhood Association and representing W.A.T.E.R. for this interview. She plans to keep up the fight to prevent Crystal Geyser from harming the mountain and all life downstream. Website: http://cawater.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mtshastawater/ Raven does not speak for the Winnemem Wintu Tribe. They are a sovereign nation and speak for themselves. They can be reached at: https://www.winnememwintu.us/ for further information. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste [http://adventuresinwaste.com/] Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Producer: Georgia Tunioli Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 62 Photo Credit: Cuyahoga Recycles

This is PART FOUR of a special seven-part series, called, “The Plastic Plague: Connecting the Dots between Extraction, Inequity, and Pollution.” Plastic Plague Series: PART 4 (of 7) THROWAWAY SOCIETY – we investigate the economics & inequity of plastic consumption once thrown away. Does plastic truly get recycled and what is the burden of other countries? More than 300 million tons of new plastic is produced annually and less than 10% is recycled. 40% of the plastic produced is for packaging. China was the recycling destination for over 40% of the USA’s waste commodities. When they shuttered their doors to recycling imports, new opportunities popped up in other countries, but with it came the same issues of contamination, excess waste, and a dumping ground for the consequences of a “throwaway society.” Our guests include Shibu Nair, India Coordinator for GAIA - Asia Pacific and Michael Doshi, Director of Partnerships for Algalita Marine Research & Education. Shibu K. Nair is an environmental activist from South India with 20 years of experience in environmental education, conservation, movements, policy and advocacy campaigns. He is a former Saathi Fellow of Association of India’s Development and Bay area chapter and Zero Waste Fellow of GAIA and Ecology Centre in Berkeley, CA. http://www.no-burn.org Michael Doshi is Algalita's Director of Partnerships, spearheading strategic partnership collaborations, engaging like-minded organizations working on innovative solutions to participate in educating youth through Algalita’s leadership programs. Doshi travels the world conducting waste investigations to experience where our plastic ends up in the environment and how it impacts humans. https://algalita.org/ Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Producer: Georgia Tunioli Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 61 Photo Credit: Shibu Nair

This is PART THREE of a special seven-part series, called, “The Plastic Plague: Connecting the Dots between Extraction, Inequity, and Pollution.” HUMAN HEALTH – On this episode, we will investigate the impacts plastics have on our personal health and quality of life. From our food packaging to our building material, we cover the toxins types, corporate responsibility, and how can we avoid exposure. We dive into what it means to support the efforts of frontline communities to minimize exposure by reducing these toxic chemicals. Did you know that after packaging, the #1 global use of plastic is building materials? Our guests include Yvette Arellano, Policy Research & Grassroots Advocate for TEJAS, Dr. Julia Varshavsky, Reproductive Health and the Environment, UCSF Medical Center, and Bill Walsh, Healthy Building Network Yvette Arellano, is a community organizer for TEJAS, Texas Environmental Justice Advocacy Services. She focuses on the human health impacts of petrochemicals involved in plastics production, chemical clusters, risk of accidents and access to information in the 52-mile industrial corridor between Houston and Galveston. Dr. Julia Varshavsky is a Postdoctoral Scholar in environmental epidemiology and biostatistics for the Research team, conducting biologically-based, population-level studies on exposure and health risks associated with endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Bill Walsh, has been working on issues related to plastics and environmental justice for more than 35 years. He founded the Healthy Building Network in 2000 to be the green building movement’s leader in product transparency, healthy materials and related issues of health equity and environmental justice. Prior to that he spent 15 years with Greenpeace USA. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Producer: Georgia Tunioli Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 59 Photo Credit:

This is Installment Two of our National Zero Waste Conference series meant to elevate the voices featured during the two-day event in Berkeley, California (postponed this year). Our guests are Meleny Thomas, Shashawnda Campbell, and Greg Sawtell all Leadership Organizers with United Workers in Baltimore, Maryland, speaking with our host, Jessica Aldridge from Adventures in Waste. More Info: zwconference.org/ Baltimore, Maryland, is setting the standard for #ZeroWasteCities by ensuring social equity! Their racially and economically just Zero Waste Plan goes beyond the successful management of resources and waste by lifting up human rights values and ensuring that those communities who are historically burdened by the ill effects of our waste system are made a priority. People in South Baltimore are living 15 years less than other communities in the same city. Their Bresco Incinerator is responsible for $55 million in health damages annually. “When you think of Zero Waste, you can’t have a dumping ground community; and we have that.” Meleny Thomas. MELENY THOMAS is a published author and member of the South Baltimore Community Land Trust. Her work focuses on mobilizing youth leadership and community leadership around environmental injustice and affordable housing. SHASHAWNDA CAMPBELL is a member of the South Baltimore Community Land Trust. She began as a high school student that co-founded Free Your Voice, an advocacy group that was successful in shutting down the proposal of an incinerator. GREG SAWTELL also co-founded the Free Your Voice group. He has been instrumental in accelerating the Zero Waste movement in South Baltimore. The National Zero Waste Conference is a two day educational and networking event organized by the National Recycling Coalition. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 58 Photo courtesy Meleny Thomas

This is PART TWO of a special seven-part series, called, “The Plastic Plague: Connecting the Dots between Extraction, Inequity, and Pollution.” REFINEMENT - Once extracted, how does oil and gas become the resin that will eventually be the plastic we use in our daily lives? Then we buy these products, the social and environmental justice issues are covered up by cool marketing campaigns. On this episode, we will breakdown how fossil fuels become plastic and follow the train of economic interests and irresponsibility. We will hear from front-line activists dealing with plastic manufacturing and the impact to their communities’ quality of life. Our guests include Diane Wilson, Executive Director of San Antonio Bay Estuarine Waterkeeper; Sharon Lavigne, Founding Director of RISE St. James; and Jim Vallette, President of Material Research L3C. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge. LINKS & RESOURCES Diane Wilson, Executive Director, San Antonio Bay Estuarine Waterkeeper Social Media: @UnreasonableWoman http://www.breakfreefromplastic.org/ Diane is a fourth-generation shrimper, mother of five, author of three books, and an environmental, peace, and social justice advocate who during the last 30 years launched legislative campaigns, demonstrations, hunger strikes, sunk boats, and even climbed chemical towers in her fight to protect her Gulf Coast bay. She is executive director of San Antonio Bay Estuarine Waterkeeper and recently won the largest ever citizen Clean Water suit against the plastic polluter Formosa Plastics, accruing $50 million in penalties against them and achieving zero discharge of plastics from their facility. Sharon Lavigne, Founding Director of RISE St. James Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/risestjames/ Sharon is the Founding Director of RISE St. James, and founding executive member of the Coalition Against Death Alley. She is a dedicated activist committed to protecting her community of St. James, Louisiana. She was a teacher for 39 years and loves working with children. It is her conviction that God ignited this environmental justice fight with in her. Jim Vallette, President, Material Research L3C Social Media: https://materialresearch.net/ Jim is President and co-founder of Material Research L3C. In 2019, they investigated the delivery of tar sands by rail through Portland, Oregon, the life cycle impacts of 20 toxic chemicals (with Earthjustice), and completed a global inventory of the chlorine industry, the source of many of the world's most problematic petrochemicals and plastics. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Producer: Georgia Tunioli Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 57 Photo Credit: Drew Angerer/Getty Images

This is Installment Two of our National Zero Waste Conference series meant to elevate the voices featured during the two-day event in Berkeley, California (postponed this year). Our guests are Mike Sangiacomo, President & Chief Executive Officer of Recology and Eric Potashner, Vice President & Senior Director of Recology, speaking with our host, Jessica Aldridge from Adventures in Waste. More Info: https://zwconference.org/ What is the responsibility of the businesses creating the products we use, including packaging material? Should they share in the responsibility to ensure a product is truly recyclable or compostable in current markets? What is their role if a product they create cannot be readily recycled and composted? Should the product have a minimum recycled content in order to stimulate a healthy economy for recycled resin? Or is it alright for their responsibility to be completely abandoned once a product is sold and consumed? On this show we dive into these questions and talk about what is happening with California legislation that is looking to reduce plastic pollution and support recycling and Circular Economy efforts. Ballot Measure website: https://plasticsfreeca.org/ MICHAEL J. SANGIACOMO has served as the Recology President & Chief Executive Officer and a member of its Board of Directors since November 1990. Over the past three decades, under Mr. Sangiacomo’s leadership, Recology, an integrated resource recovery company, has expanded its operations from Northern California to include more than 60 operating solid waste processing companies and facilities across California, Washington, and Oregon. As the largest employee-owned company in the waste and recycling industry, Recology serves 140 communities along the West Coast. Website: https://www.recology.com/ ERIC POTASHNER joined Recology’s Corporate team in 2012. Eric is responsible for a team that executes on the company’s strategies for government affairs, permitting, planning, and community and media relations across California, Oregon, and Washington. The National Zero Waste Conference is a two day educational and networking event organized by the National Recycling Coalition. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 55 Photo credit: Greenpeace USA

This is PART ONE of a special seven-part series, called, “The Plastic Plague: Connecting the Dots between Extraction, Inequity, and Pollution.” As most people understand, plastic originates from oil and fracked natural gas. In order to limit the flow of plastic, we must look to the well from which it came, before it ever becomes waste. The rapid growth of cheap fracked gas in the past decade has led to accelerating methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas planet warmer. Drilling and fracking leads to serious public health and safety impacts, poisoning and destroying public lands and wildlife, and contaminating our air and water. The fight against the expansion of new oil development and the fight to reduce plastics pollution are inseparable. To stop the flow of plastic, you have to go to its beginning. On today’s episode (part 1 of a 7-part series), we tackle the beginnings of plastic at the source of its initial social and environmental impacts. Jane Patton is the Senior Campaigner, Environmental Health Program - Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL). Jane has been a campaigner, coordinator, and organizer for many years with global movements and organizations working to stop plastic pollution at the source, including in her home state of Louisiana. Social Media: https://twitter.com/ciel_tweets, http://www.ciel.org/, http://www.stopformosa.org/ Sharon Wilson the Senior Organizer, for Earthworks is a 5th generation Texan who pursued her dream of living in the country with her two sons surrounded by her animals. Her beautiful country farm turned into a fracking sacrifice zone and Sharon became @TXsharon (https://twitter.com/TexasSharon), a leading activist fighting against oil and gas. Blog: http://www.texassharon.com/ Ethan Buckner the Energy Campaigner of Earthworks is a longtime social movement organizer and singer/songwriter living in Los Angeles. As Earthworks’ Energy Campaigner, Ethan works alongside communities directly impacted by oil, gas, and petrochemical companies to fight for a fossil-free future. Social Media: Twitter https://twitter.com/ethanbuckner & Facebook https://www.facebook.com/earthworksaction/IG: @earthworksaction Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Producer: Georgia Tunioli Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 54

This is Installment One of our National Zero Waste Conference series meant to elevate the voices featured during the two-day event in Berkeley, California (postponed this year). Our guest, Leslie Lukacs co-chair of the conference. More Info: https://zwconference.org/ From the time a resource is extracted and managed for product creation and consumption, to when it is consumed, disposed and then managed for extended use or burial, there are climate disrupting effects and potentials for climate loving solutions. How we create product (or what can be defined as soon to be wasted resources) and then how we manage said resources at end of life has a cumulative impact on climate change. Our guest, Leslie Lukacs, Executive Director of Zero Waste Sonoma, formally known as the Sonoma County Waste Management Agency, speaks with our host Jessica Aldridge, who also is the founder of Adventures in Waste [http://adventuresinwaste.com/]. Leslie has worked over 20 years in the solid waste and resource management industry. She has spent her career designing and implementing comprehensive sustainability and zero waste programs for large institutions, public agencies, venues, and events throughout California and the nation. Leslie serves on the board of directors of the National Recycling Coalition and Zero Waste International Alliance. Websites: https://zerowastesonoma.gov/ https://zwconference.org/ Social: IG: https://www.instagram.com/zerowastesonoma/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/_RecycleNow FB: https://www.facebook.com/zerowastesonoma/ The National Zero Waste Conference is a two day educational and networking event organized by the National Recycling Coalition Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 53

After generations of struggle, the imperative of Indigenous sovereignty over traditional lands and waters has crystallized as a growing movement in the Americas to counter the power of multinational corporations and the governments that enable them. Native Nation self-determination has proven an effective way to steward and protect resources and develop a sustainable way forward in an era of ecosystem collapse and runaway climate disruption. We welcome to Ecojustice Radio two people working toward a model of self-determination and a brighter future for the planet through Indigenous prosperity, Manape LaMere and SunRose IronShell. Jack Eidt, co-founder of SoCal 350 and publisher of WilderUtopia.com, does the interview. Manape LaMere, who has relinquished his U.S. citizenship and is a government representative of his treaty nation (Sioux) and a representative at the U.N. Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Manape is one of the seven headsmen of the Oceti Sakowin, which is proper name for the people commonly known as the Sioux, meaning Seven Council Fires. SunRose IronShell, of the Sicangu and Oglala, Lakota Nations, is a designer whose point of view reaches far beyond the realms of mere clothing. Her brand Warrior Status challenges the wearer to think and live as a modern-day warrior. SunRose on IG https://www.instagram.com/livenwarriorstatus/ Interview by Jack Eidt Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 52

We speak with Chief Caleen Sisk, the Spiritual Leader of the Winnemem Wintu Tribe, whose ancestral territory includes what is now known as the McCloud River watershed below “Buliyum Puyuk” aka. Mt. Shasta in Northern California. Since 2000, Chief Caleen has helped maintain the cultural and religious traditions of the Tribe and continually advocates for salmon restoration, the Human Right to Water and protection of Indigenous sacred sites. She and her tribe are currently working with Maori of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and federal fish biologists to return the now nearly extinct California Chinook salmon to the McCloud River. Run4Salmon Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/run4salmon/ Interview originally recorded in 2017. Interview by Carry Kim Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: JP Morris and Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 51

Palm Oil is touted as a “miracle ingredient,” found in more than 50% of all packaged products consumed in the US. It renders makeup smooth, keeps ice cream from melting, and moisturizes our hair and skin. It is a hot commodity; giving rise to plantations in Asia, Africa and Latin America. At 66 million tons annually and 10% of permanent global cropland, palm oil is a prevalent, economically appealing crop. But how would you know, it is not always clearly labeled in the products we purchase, identified by at least 25 ingredient names. Although popular, the cultivation and expansion of this supposed cash crop can come at the expense of the indigenous peoples, critical habitat, endangered species, and the climate. Almost 90% of the world's oil palm is grown on a few islands in Malaysia and Indonesia, home to the most bio-diverse tropical forests found on Earth. Can palm oil can be produced in a responsible, sustainable, and regenerative manner that protects the environment, bio-diverse species, and communities where it is cultivated? On this episode, we discuss what is happening in Indonesia and elsewhere around Palm Oil extraction, expansion, and exploitation. Our guest has been involved with orangutans for 46 years and has been working tirelessly to secure and protect the orangutan populations through creating more regenerative and equitable solutions around Palm Oil production. We welcome Dr. Gary Shapiro, President of Orang Utan Republik Foundation & The Orangutan Project-USA. https://www.orangutanrepublik.org/ https://www.theorangutanproject.org/ https://www.facebook.com/OrangUtanRepublik/ http://twitter.com/OURF Gary L. Shapiro, Ph.D. has dedicated most of his life to understanding and supporting the well-being of individual and populations of critically endangered orangutans through research, conservation, advocacy and education. He was the first person (1973-1975) to teach a symbolic communication system to an orangutan and the first person to have taught sign language to orangutans in their natural environment, the forests of Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesian Borneo (1978-1980; 1981). Shapiro further assisted in the rehabilitation efforts of dozens of orangutans confiscated from the illegal pet trade and monitored the phenology of local rain forest ecosystem. Shapiro received his doctorate in Zoology in 1985 from the University of Oklahoma then returned to Indonesian Borneo (1986) to conduct post-doctoral freshwater ecology studies in Tanjung Puting National Park. He spent 28 years as a government scientist and retired in 2014. Shapiro was the co-founder and vice president of the first orangutan support organization, the Orangutan Foundation International, from 1986-2004 where he administered and oversaw the activities supporting research and conservation in and around Tanjung Puting National Park. In late 2004, Dr. Shapiro and his Indonesian wife, Inggriani, were inspired to create the Orang Utan Republik Education Initiative (OUREI), a nonprofit project, in response to the education needs underscoring the Critically Endangered status facing orangutans today, particularly in Sumatra. In 2007, the Orang Utan Republik Foundation (OURF) was established as a legal organization to support the programs of OUREI in Indonesia. In 2015, OURF partnered with The Orangutan Project (TOP) to serve as their US chapter. Shapiro also serves on the board of TOP and administers the funds collected and distributed to dozens of organizations conserving orangutans. Shapiro returns to Indonesia each year to facilitate OURF’s programs in Sumatra and Borneo. He also conducts ecotours to Borneo and Sumatra. Shapiro also lectures to audiences of all ages in both English and Bahasa Indonesian. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 50 Image courtesy of OneGreenPlanet.org.

Hear Tina and Jessa Calderon, mother and daughter duo representing the Gabrielino Tongva and Ventureño Chumash Nations, share their personal experiences, stories and insights regarding growing up as indigenous women on their Native lands. They recount the trials, traumas and tribulations, as well as the creativity, pride and healing that ensued during their process of reclaiming their indigenous language, cultural life ways and themselves as empowered Native women. Carry Kim did the interview. Jessa Calderon shares her song, 'Scars of a Warrior', a raw, universal reminder and personal telling of the legacy and walk of an indigenous child come empowered woman warrior and mother. Together as mother and daughter, Tina and Jessa are now fulfilling a spiritual calling to serve the local and global community by preserving their Native legacy for the benefit, education, and inheritance of future generations. Gabrielino/Tongva - San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians: https://gabrielenotongva.org/ Jessa Calderon: https://www.instagram.com/jessa_songwriter1/ https://soundcloud.com/lady-sparkz https://twitter.com/TheeLovelyJessa https://www.youtube.com/user/KrazyLady818/videos Tina Calderon: https://www.facebook.com/tina.o.calderon Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Interview by Carry Kim Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 49

In recent years across the world, a groundswell of youth activism is growing, pressuring governments to stand up for social and environmental rights. It can be argued that a surge of youth activism this size has not been seen since the Vietnam War. The reasons for unrest are diverse, from fears of worsening climate, violence in schools, political corruption, racial injustice, deportation. A recent UCLA survey found that 1 in 10 undergraduates nationwide expected to partake in protests while in college, the highest rate since 1967. The youth are rising up and they demand their voices be heard and their presence taken seriously. The youth are the future. Well that future better be livable, equitable, and safe. Today we discuss the power of youth-led activism and how our guest is helping to inspire change and build community. We welcome 19-year-old Youth Environmental Activist and one of the lead organizers for Youth Climate Strike LA, Kevin Patel. Kevin J Patel is from Los Angeles, CA. As a climate activist for over six years, he is also the Founder and Executive Director for the youth-led climate movement, OneUpAction Facebook: Kevin J Patel Instagram: @imkevinjpatel Twitter: @imkevinjpatel https://www.facebook.com/YouthClimateStrikeLosAngeles/ Resources https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/ed/18/08/student-activism-20 Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 48 Photo courtesy of Ben Goloff

In this episode, we discuss the struggle to protect the sacred lands and culture of the Wixárika people, also known popularly as the Huichol, an indigenous group inhabiting the remote reaches of the Sierra Madre Occidental of Mexico. Our guests are Andrea Perez, Indigenous Environmental Justice Advocate, and Susana Valadez Director of the Huichol Center for Cultural Survival and Traditional Arts. Jessica Aldridge did the interview. Central to the ancient religion of the Wixárika is the yearly pilgrimage crossing the San Luis Potosí desert in the region of Real de Catorce to a sacred place called Wirikuta, the homeland of their ancestors. They would collect and ingest hikuri (the peyote cactus) as a tool to dialogue with the ancient spirits. Their sacred Wirikuta has been invaded, private properties have encroached on traditional pilgrimage routes, and 78 mining concessions have been granted to First Majestic Silver Corporation out of Canada. While this project purports to bring some jobs and economic development to the area, it also drains and pollutes water resources and limits access to their ancestral homeland. Andrea Perez Andrea Perez is a 23 year old, Indigenous Environmental Scientist and Geospatial Analyst. Her desire for people to build personal relationships with Earth is moved by her approach to the Climate Crisis as an Indigenous Environmental Justice Advocate. Her ancestral lands are currently under threat by foreign countries trying to exploit the rich land for profit. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/protect_wirkuta/ https://www.instagram.com/arte_wixarika_tanuiwari/ https://www.instagram.com/for_the_love_of_earth/ (personal) Facebook: Congreso Regional de Wirikuta Susana Valadez Nobel Peace Prize nominee and founder of the Huichol Center for Cultural Survival and Traditional Arts Biography: UCLA anthropology grad student from the 1970s who married into the Huichol (Wixarika) culture and has since then spearheaded a humanitarian organization in the mountains of Mexcio. A Nobel Peace Prize nominee that has dedicated her life the well-being of the tribe and the protection of their people, sacred plants and cultural legacy Web: www.thehuicholcenter.org, https://www.thehuicholcenter.org/shop-huichol.html https://decriminalizenature.org/ IG and Twitter: SUSANA_VALADEZ Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 47 Image art courtesy The Huichol Center for Cultural Survival and Traditional Arts

The Los Angeles Harbor community is starving for oxygen. Environmental Justice Activist Jesse Marquez speaks with EcoJustice Radio about the dangers of living around five oil refineries, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and hemmed in by the truck-clogged 710 and 110 freeways. Fresh air in the shadow of an industrial sacrifice zone is often in short supply for those who call those neighborhoods home. Moreover, the Los Angeles Basin, home to 13 million people, has over 1,000 active oil drilling sites, pumping and emitting gases and noise next to schools, churches, and residences. How do these day-to-day operations affect our communities? What do people need to know to take appropriate action in the event of a refinery accident or oil spill? AQMD data shows the five refineries in the immediate area — owned by Marathon (formerly Andeavor/Tesoro), Phillips 66, and Valero — reported releasing nearly 14 million pounds of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, and so-called criteria pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and fine particles. Oil refineries report only a fraction of the emissions they release, according to a 2016 study by Swedish academics, and the poisons in this brew can cause cancer and heart disease as well as asthma. The sad reality is that the majority of L.A.’s industrial oil activity takes place in low-income and minority communities, where residents aren’t afforded the same regulatory protections as individuals living in affluent areas. Jesse Marquez is the Executive Director of the Environmental Justice Organization the Coalition For A Safe Environment (CFASE) established in April 2001 in Wilmington, California, to eliminate, reduce and mitigate the negative community environmental, public health, public safety and socioeconomic impacts caused by International Trade Marine Ports, Freight Transportation Corridors, Petroleum and Energy Industries. CFASE works to protect, promote, preserve, and restore our Mother Earth’s delicate ecology, environment, natural resources and wildlife. More info (website under construction): cfase.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coalitionforasafeenvironment/ Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Interview by Carry Kim Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 46 Image thanks to Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times

On Episode 45 of EcoJustice Radio our guest Reverend Oliver Buie, Minister of Community Engagement at the Holman United Methodist Church in South Los Angeles, speaks with Jessica Aldridge on the important relationship between faith and environmentalism and what his parish has been doing to promote environmental and social justice in their community. As a member of the Steering Committee of STAND-LA, he speaks to the environmental justice movement to institute a 2,500-foot health and safety buffer between oil drilling and where people live, in particular motivated by the Murphy Oil Drilling site near his South Los Angeles church. Reverend Oliver Buie is Minister of Community Engagement at the Holman United Methodist Church. He earned a Master of Divinity Degree in 2011 from San Francisco Theological Seminary. He has 25 years of valuable experience in carrying out ministry responsibilities both as a licensed and ordained minister of the Gospel, including strong Biblical preaching and teaching, and worship leadership. His strong points have been organizational leadership, administration, and strategic planning, evangelism and church growth strategies, community outreach & relations, program development and team building, stewardship and fund development, ecumenical and collaborative relations and event planning & management. He is actively involved in environmental and social justice issues and is a Steering Committee for STAND LA (Stand Together Against Neighborhood Drilling). LINKS Web: www.holmanumc.com IG and Twitter: @holmanUMC FB: www.facebook.com/HolmanChurch/ Other Resources: STAND-LA: https://www.stand.la/ Murphy Oil Site: www.stand.la/murphy.html Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 45

Weather extremes, soil degradation, and climate disruption have turned our attention to the potential of soil, carbon, and water cycling as a formidable and creative response to climate change. Linda Gibbs is the Owner & Principal Manager of the gardens at Woodshed Recording Studio, growing food, medicine, and soil. She teaches at the Gaia school of healing and Earth education and is a soil advocate for Kiss the Ground. One week after her home burned down in the Woolsey Fire, she spoke on behalf of Kiss the Ground at the 73rd annual Conservation Resource Districts conference on soil and fire resilience. The urgency of our times and the loss of her home spurred her to begin offering free classes to educate and motivate people about what they can do right under their feet to regenerate the Earth and address climate change. Linda Gibbs on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.gibbs.1042 Allan Savory's site: https://www.savory.global/ Kiss the Ground: https://kisstheground.com/ Interview by Carry Kim Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 44 Photo courtesy of Kiss the Ground

On today’s show we are discussing Urban Forestry’s Impacts On Climate Change and Social Equity. Jessica Aldridge speaks with Mark Kenyon, Executive Director of the nonprofit, North East Trees. The horrific fires ravaging the Amazon in Brazil and Bolivia have sparked massive interest about how these dense rain forests influence the global weather systems by creating microclimates that have macro effects. Ultimately, large-scale deforestation has an overall effect on global climate. However, what of our trees here at home? Do they impact our local weather? Does their existence play a role in mitigating climate change? Today we will speak to the powerful effect urban forests have on the health and well-being of our communities and the climate in general. We will also look into programs that are working within those communities to provide equitable solutions, green jobs, and open spaces. Mark Kenyon has been associated with North East Trees (NET - http://www.northeasttrees.org/) from its very first tree planting over 26 years ago and volunteered on many tree planting projects as well as working with the Founder, Scott Wilson, and NET's Board management oversight and strategic planning. Mark brings to NET a keen interest in native plants, habitat restoration, watershed management, and the use of natural spaces to connect with at-risk youth disadvantaged communities. Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 43

The Global Climate Strikes that happened from 20-27 September 2019, inspired a record 7.6 million people to head into the streets and strike for climate action. The biggest climate mobilization in history. From Jakarta to New York, Karachi to Amman, Berlin to Kampala, Istanbul to Québec, Guadalajara to Asunción, in big cities and small villages, millions of people joined hands and raised their voices in defense of the climate. The Global Climate Strike shows that we have the people power we need to create a just world and end the era of fossil fuels. The September 20th Los Angeles Youth Climate Strike was organized by a coalition of groups and led by Youth Climate Strike Los Angeles. EcoJustice Radio's Jessica Aldridge and production team joined the action at Downtown LA's Pershing Square, where anywhere from 10-20,000 people gathered for speeches and music, and then all marched through the streets to City Hall. This caused absolute pandemonium on the crowded city streets, but all happened peacefully and with grace from all involved. Following are a sampling of the diverse voices out in the streets to demand climate action and an end to the fossil fueled business as usual that is destabilizing the global climate systems, with heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, destructive hurricanes, melting of glaciers, and methane feedback mechanisms spinning out of control. We have to act NOW! Jessica Aldridge spoke with: Ash Rosas - Sunrise Movement Los Angeles Tina Calderon - Gabrielieno Tongva and Ventureno Chumash Paula Kahn - SoCal 350 Climate Action Daniel Lopez - Youth Activist Claire McCarthy - Greenpeace Diego Johansen - Greenpeace Former Sen. Kevin De Leon, President Emeritus of CA State Senate Jesus Villalba Gastelum - Youth Climate Strike LA - Earth Uprising LA Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 42 Photo courtesy of Mike Chickey - More: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10216860498399552&type=3

Susan V. Collins, President of Container Recycling Institute, speaks with host Jessica Aldridge about how California underwent a recent wave of redemption center closures (those places where consumers can drop off their recyclable beverage containers for cash). So what needs to happen to fix the California bottle bill? Container Recycling Institute: http://www.container-recycling.org/ Hosted by Jessica Aldridge, Adventures in Waste Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 41 Image from Waste 360

Water is life. Clean, safe, reliable, affordable, and the future security of water is nonnegotiable. Los Angeles, California currently imports a whopping 70% of their water. And getting that water to LA is the largest use of electricity in the state of CA. When water is not captured and utilized within the system, it traverses through the city and out to the ocean. In order to shape a strong water future, we must manage the flow in way that ensures high quality, social equity, and solutions based in nature. Jessica Aldridge, interviews Annelisa Moe, Water Quality Scientist with Heal the Bay and Miguel Ramos External Affairs Outreach Coordinator with the Nature Conservancy. This show aired on KPFK on Sept 12, 2019 Photo Credit: Los Angeles Aqueduct Terminus Cascades in Sylmar. Meghan McCarty - KPCC Interview Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 40

Hear the wise words of Tongva Elder, Grandmother Gloria Arellanes, as she shares the heritage of the Tongva people, who inhabited and stewarded the area referred to as the "Los Angeles basin" as well as the Southern Channel Islands. Grandmother Gloria offers her insights about the state of our world, youth, elderhood and the intergenerational cycle of learning, as well as how we might honor proper protocols, First Nations and all that is Sacred, amidst the backdrop of increasing urbanity, and the numerous perils now facing our environment. In December 2018, a 6-3 decision by the California Coastal Commission allowed a massive expansion of oil operations in the Los Cerritos Wetlands, near Long Beach. This includes the drilling of 120 new oil/water wells and the construction of a 2,200-foot pipeline to extend across the Newport-Inglewood fault. Water injection drilling methods could increase output from 300 to 23,000 barrels daily and emit 70,000 tons of greenhouse gases annually. The oil will be sent to local refineries poisoning working class communities, mainly people of color, in West Long Beach/Wilmington. In a worst-case scenario, this project could spill 2.8 million gallons of oil, destroying wetlands, bay, and ocean waters along the coast. This unfortunate project, promoted as "wetlands restoration," was approved using "overrides" even though it violates the Coastal Act. The Tongva and Acjachemen consider these wetlands to be a tribal cultural landscape and wildlife sanctuary. Many sacred and burial sites have been destroyed here already, very little is left. Interview by Carry Kim Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineers: JP Morris and Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 39

Hear from David Lamfrom, Director of California Desert and National Wildlife programs at the National Parks Conservation Association, who will discuss the particular challenges of protecting and preserving our national parks in the Anthropocene era, including this current stage of global industrialization. David recounts the impact of the government shutdown on wildlife in national parks, including the financial cost for the remediation of destruction from unmonitored and unregulated human activity. He discusses the gaps in federal funding that impact conservation efforts. Listen to how we can best support biogeography, diversity and migration patterns of animals and whole ecosystems as we accelerate industrial production of renewable energy infrastructure to scale. David asserts that "empty space" is a myth, and elucidates how we can become more effective and connected stewards of the Earth while we seek alternatives for fossil fuels. David Lamfrom from serves as the Director of the California Desert and National Wildlife programs for the National Parks Conservation Association, using his passion and knowledge of our natural, cultural and historical resources to inspire others to learn about and protect our national parks. David has extensive experience working with diverse wildlife and agriculture in the fields of: aquaculture, agricultural biology and herpetology. He volunteered time and expertise as a naturalist for the Wildlife Research Team, a non-profit organization who has had tremendous success utilizing non-mechanized mangrove restoration in Biscayne Bay, Florida. As a graduate of New College of Florida, David has had the opportunity to conduct significant study in the fields of ecology, herpetology, foreign languages, Native American studies, and art. Published both as an author and wildlife photographer in several issues of Wild South magazine, David is an avid naturalist, hiker, and photographer who spends his free time exploring wildlife and wilderness. For more info. and to support visit: https://www.npca.org/ Interview by Carry Kim Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineers: JP Morris and Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 38

Jessica Aldridge speaks with Ayla Suhail, Climate Change and Livelihood Project Coordinator at PODA, Potohar Organisation of development and advocacy in Pakistan. She is a graduate of mathematics from Comsats University in Islamabad and is finishing her up masters in Geographical Information System. Her thesis is based on "Analyzing the impact of Plastic Waste on the Urban Climate." She is also a teacher and a coach. The effects of natural disasters and Climate change have disproportionate impacts to those most vulnerable, especially rural based women and marginalized groups. Empowerment of women is critical to personal well-being and self-sufficiency; that empowerment is also directly tied to how the community will handle crisis and build resiliency. In order to mitigate climate change, there must exist a fuller understanding of the social and economic issues that those on the front line bear, and what approaches need to be in place in order to create empowerment and solutions from within. With an increase in development including industrialization, urbanization, and motorization, the World Bank identified Pakistan’s top environmental issues as air pollution, inadequate supply of uncontaminated drinking water, and health deterioration of urban and rural populations. That same report says Karachi’s urban air pollution is among the most severe in the world. That being said it is important to note that the majority of Pakistan’s population lives in rural areas and experiences high poverty rates. Those in urban areas suffer from significant damages to human health. Ayla Suhail has been working for a Pakastani organization that tackles the issues of climate change by supporting solutions that are based in gender equity, economic justice, and human rights. They also have a stunning program that encourages entrepreneurism through art while protecting traditional cultural expressions. More Info: https://poda.org.pk/ Interview by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: JP Morris and Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 37

Carry Kim talks with Rev. Adelia Sandoval, the Spiritual Leader for the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians/Acjachemen Nation. The Acjachemen people are the indigenous people of Orange County in Southern California and have stewarded and inhabited this region for roughly 12,000 years. Adelia is also a Ceremonial Leader, Bear Dancer, Re-Burial Rites Ceremonialist, and Keeper of Songs she has been taught by Tribal Spiritual Leader, Ka'chi. She is the director of the Tribal women's singing group the Tushmalum Heleqatum (Hummingbirds that Sing). Listen to Adelia offer wisdom from her lineage and lived experience as a spiritual leader for the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians/Acjachemen Nation. She contemplates and wonders aloud about the efforts many are now making on behalf of future generations to preserve Earth-honoring traditions of indigenous peoples, flora, fauna, sacred places and life itself. She also discusses the imminent need to protect Qu'eespamay (aka. San Onofre) from the threat of unsafe nuclear waste storage upon sacred, ancestral Acjachemen lands. Be reminded of the importance of unity, sacred "activism" even in the apparent face of "failure," and our common human heritage as we navigate our times and learn to regard all living things in sacred reciprocity once again. Interview by Carry Kim Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 36

Carry Kim speaks with Doug Lindamood, from SonRise Ranch in San Diego County, California. He and his family own and operate this pasture based livestock operation dedicated to changing industrial, factory farming into a local, sustainable, integrity, food movement through education and outreach one family at a time. According to SonRise Ranch, Management Intensive Grazing, regenerative agriculture, and the highest standards of animal husbandry are the best way to heal the planet. SonRise Ranch: http://son-riseranch.com/ https://www.son-riseranchstore.com/Default.asp Interview by Carry Kim Hosted by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 35 Photo courtesy of American Dairymen

In the spring of 2019, the Sunrise Movement, building an army of young people to make climate change an urgent priority across the US, put on the Road To A Green New Deal Tour, visiting eight cities across the US to share what a Green New Deal would look like in different communities as well as spotlighting local politicians and organizers throughout the country. A Green New Deal would address the interwoven crises of climate catastrophe, economic inequality, and racism at the scale that science and justice demand. It could combine quick action to get to net- zero greenhouse gas emissions and 100% renewable energy by 2030 along with an “Economic Bill of Rights” – the right to single-payer healthcare, a guaranteed job at a living wage, affordable housing and free college education. EcoJustice Radio joined KPFK-FM to interview the voices in and around the Green New Deal Tour in Los Angeles, and this is what our interviewer Jessica Aldridge with the sound team Kiyana Williams and Blake Lampkin found out. Guests Josh Willis, oceanographer with Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Hotpocalypse Podcast Aura Vasquez, former LA DWP Commissioner, environmental activist Loraine Lundquist, environmental scientist at Cal State Northridge D Garcia with Sunrise Movement LA Varshini Prakash, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Sunrise Movement with Gabbi Pierce also with Sunrise At the end, Jack Eidt from SoCal 350 interviewed Bill McKibben, author, educator, environmentalist, and co-founder of 350.org, and a global leader in the movement to solve the climate crisis along with several important books on global warming, along with Lydia Ponce from SoCal 350 and a member of American Indian Movement. Photo Credit: Al Drago/Bloomberg Interviews by Jessica Aldridge Engineer: Blake Lampkin Video Kiyana Williams Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 34

Over the past few years, there has been significant growth in US politics of women candidates (especially women of color) and for many this being their first run for office. As of today, there exists a record number of women in congress and more young women and women of color than ever in US History. On this show, Jessica Aldridge talks with Aura Vasquez, Environmental and Social Justice organizer and Candidate for Los Angeles City Council District 10, on how we change the “old boys club” and what this could mean for bringing social equity to the table. Bio Aura Vasquez is an Afro-Latina immigrant, community leader, fearless advocate for environmental and racial justice issues and running to be the first woman elected to represent Los Angeles Council District 10. As the first immigrant and the youngest to be appointed a Commissioner for the L.A. Department of Water and Power, Aura supported millions in investments in sustainable energy and incentives to lower power bills for all residents. In 2018, she coached Democratic candidates across the U.S. and helped flip the U.S. Congress to a Democratic majority. Her commitment is to give a voice to people who have been, historically unheard, and help them build a prosperous future for themselves and their families. Learn more about Aura Vasquez Campaign for the People of District 10. https://www.aura2020.com Follow her journey in Social Media: Instagram: @Auravasquezofficial Facebook: @Auravasquezofficial Twitter: @Auramvasquez For questions, comments, and suggestions email Aura anytime! Info@Aura2020.com Interview by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 32 Photo Credit: Christina House / Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles is the nation’s garment production capital and the city’s second largest manufacturing sector, yet workers face injustice, usually associated with the developing world, right here in one of the largest cities in the United States. Unbeknownst to most, sweatshops are a reality in Los Angeles, California and are directly tied to some of the most notable and loved brands. However, accountability and human rights are not always being addressed by these brands and the manufacturers they use. How are sweatshops and labor practices intrinsically tied to environmental issues? Our host, Jessica Aldridge, interviews Mar Martinez from the Garment Worker Center a worker rights organization leading an anti-sweatshop movement to secure social and economic justice for tens of thousands of Los Angeles garment workers. Bio: With two garment workers as parents, Mar Martinez witnessed first-hand the harm that the garment industry creates due to low wages and unsafe working conditions. As Organizing Coordinator and Wage Theft Clinic Coordinator, Mar has helped recover over $900K in stolen wages for garment workers and fight for greater brand accountability in the garment industry in Los Angeles. Garment Worker Center is a worker rights organization leading an anti-sweatshop movement to improve conditions for tens of thousands of Los Angeles garment workers. Through direct organizing, GWC develops leaders who demand enforcement of strong labor laws and accountability from factory owners, manufacturers, and fashion brands. We center immigrant workers, women of color, and their families who are impacted by exploitation in the fashion industry. Website: http://garmentworkercenter.org/ Interview by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 31

Replay of segment 3 The Wisconsin Vegetable Gardener Radio Show from 6-8-19 Heard on 860AM WNOV & W293cx 106.5FM Milwaukee, WI Saturday mornings 9-10AM CST Heard on WAAM 1600 AM Ann Arbor, MI Sundays 7-8AM est Heard on WWDB 860 AM Philadelphia, PA Sundays 7-8AM est Heard on KMET 1490 AM Tuesdays 9 - 10 AM pst Banning, CA listen here during show hours for your station: WNOV https://tinyurl.com/y8lwd922 WWDB: https://wwdbam.com/ WAAM https://tinyurl.com/p68cvft KMET https://www.kmet1490am.com/ Check out https://thewisconsinvegetablegardener.com/ Contact Joey and Holly: Email them at TWVGshow@gmail.com Reach the show anytime through the Instant access text hotline 414-368-9311 Thank you for listening and downloading the show. Segment 3 Guest: Jessica Aldridge ( Adventures In Waste) http://adventuresinwaste.com/ Jessica Aldridge is the founder of Adventures in Waste and is a hotshot in the recycling world. Her passion for environmental education led to creating Zero Waste programs and other sustainability projects for corporations, cities, and municipalities in Southern California. What is adventures in waste? We always hear - reduce, reuse, and recycle - are these all good methods in reducing waste? Is one better than the other? A lot of people think recycling isnt as environmentally efficient as we think it is - and could be going straight to the landfill even if we put it in the recycle bin - is there any truth to that? Why is it important for us to think about where our waste goes and waste reduction? Lets talk about the numbers on recyclables - are all recyclables equal? For example, is a 3 the same in all the same types of plastic? How can we find out more about you? Tweet us at #twvg or @twvgshow The show runs March - Oct Check out the following sponsors that make the radio show possible: Thank you Power Planter of www.powerplanter.com IV Organics of www.ivorganics.com Dr. Earth of www.drearth.com organic Root maker of www.rootmaker.com Flame Engineering Inc. of www.flameengineering.com Use coupon code WVG19 to get free shipping. Pomona Universal Pectin of www.pomonapectin.com Bobbex of www.Bobbex.com: Beans & Barley of www.beansandbarley.com MIgardener of www.MIgardener.com Outpost Natural Foods Co-op of www.outpost.coop Root Assassin of www.rootassassinshovel.com . Handy Safety Knife of www.handysafetyknife.com Use promo code WVG to get 10% off &free shipping one time use only BioSafe of www.biosafe.net Save 10% on your next order use coupon code TWVG at checkout Chapin Manufacturing Inc. of www.chapinmfg.com Pro Plugger of www.proplugger.com Dharmaceuticals of www.dharmaceuticals.com Soil Savvy of www.mysoilsavvy.com Use coupon code TWVG19 to save 10% at checkout Tomato Snaps of www.tomatosnaps.com Drip Garden of www.dripgarden.com Drip Garden Wisconsin Greenhouse company https://wisconsingreenhousecompany.com/ Standard Process Inc. of www.standardprocess.com Big Fat’s Hot Sauce of www.bigfatshotsauce.com Soil Diva of www.soildiva.net World’s coolest floating rain gauge of www.WorldsCoolestRainGauge.com Clyde’s vegetable planting chart of www.clydesvegetableplantingchart.com NuNu Natural Healing of www.nunuhealing.com RowMaker of www.rowmaker.com Eco Garden Systems of www.ecogardensystems.com Use coupon code (wiveg2019) and get $295 off the list price of $1,695 PLUS free shipping (a $250 value). Shield n seal of www.shieldnseal.com Bluemel's garden & landscape center of www.bluemels.com Phyllom BioProducts of PhyllomBioProducts.com Norwalk juicers of www.norwalkjuicers.com Use coupon code Garden talk Free Continental US shipping on the Model 290 Juicer Tree Ripe of https://www.tree-ripe.com/ Hydrobox of https://gohydrobox.com/

When we get dressed in the morning, most of us don’t consider the environmental costs and human rights issues that may be attached to the clothing on our bodies. Jessica Aldridge interviews two women who have made it their business to not only consider how to clean up the global fashion industry, advocating for environmentally-supportive and equitable solutions to water pollution, pesticides, microfibers, and waste associated with making, washing, and disposing of our clothing. Bios: Andrea Plell - For over a decade San Francisco Bay Area based writer and sustainable fashion consultant, Andrea Plell, has fostered community in the effort of supporting systemic change in the apparel industry. In 2016, she co-founded The Sustainable Fashion Alliance a member-based organization designed to empower small and mid-sized sustainable brands with resources, shared opportunities and creative avenues to market. She is also the West Coast Regional Coordinator for Fashion Revolution, a not-for-profit international movement that calls for greater transparency in the global supply chain. Jennifer Gilbert is a respected fashion recycling industry expert and is currently the Chief Marketing Officer of I:CO (short for I:Collect), a leading global solutions provider for the collection, sorting, reuse and recycling of apparel, footwear and other textiles. In her role, she works with some of the largest fashion brands to take on end-of-use product responsibility and help them transition towards a more circular fashion industry. Resources: Instagram - @jenniferdgilbert @icospirit @Fash_revusa @sustainablefashionalliance @ecologiqfashion Website - http://ecologiquefashion.com/ https://www.fashionrevolution.org/ https://www.sustainablefashionalliance.com/ https://www.ico-spirit.com/en/ Books - Magnifeco: https://www.amazon.com/Magnifeco-Head-Toe-Ethical-Non-toxic/dp/0865717974 ECOrenaissance: https://www.amazon.com/ECOrenaissance-Lifestyle-Cocreating-Stylish-Sustainable/dp/1501123564 How to Shop for Shi(f)t: https://www.amazon.com/How-Shop-Shi-Shopping-healthier/dp/0692968709 Interview by Jessica Aldridge from SoCal 350 and Adventures in Waste. Engineer: Blake Lampkin Executive Producer: Jack Eidt Show Created by Mark and JP Morris Music: Javier Kadry Episode 30

Replay of The Wisconsin Vegetable Gardener Radio Show from 6-8-19 Heard on 860AM WNOV & W293cx 106.5FM Milwaukee, WI Saturday mornings 9-10AM CST Heard on WAAM 1600 AM Ann Arbor, MI Sundays 7-8AM est Heard on WWDB 860 AM Philadelphia, PA Sundays 7-8AM est Heard on KMET 1490 AM Tuesdays 9 - 10 AM pst Banning, CA listen here during show hours for your station: WNOV https://tinyurl.com/y8lwd922 WWDB: https://wwdbam.com/ WAAM https://tinyurl.com/p68cvft KMET https://www.kmet1490am.com/ Check out https://thewisconsinvegetablegardener.com/ Contact Joey and Holly: Email them at TWVGshow@gmail.com Reach the show anytime through the Instant access text hotline 414-368-9311 Thank you for listening and downloading the show. Topics: Joey and Holly Talk about growing herbs the legal kind How to grow herbs and what to grow 1.get them from start from your local independent garden center 2. Seed from MIgardener https://migardener.com/category/99-seeds-by-category/herbs-99-seeds-by-category/ Basil all types of Licorice Basil, lime lemon, Thyme Rosemary Cilantro Sage Dill Parsely Oregano Lemon grass 3. Very easy to grow 4. Start them in containers bring them in over the winter or grow them in your window or you can get a Happy leaf led grow light their garden in a box and grow them on your counter 4 inch led light 5 cheaper than buying cuttings at the store 6. In a container feed them dr, earth 7 don't over water them Not all weeds are bad weeds 1. Weeds can host bad bugs in your garden. 2. Some weeds are edible But you must be sure we are not responsible for mis ideafations Dandelion. ... Purslane. ... Clover. ... Lamb's Quarters. ... Plantain. ... Chickweed. ... Mallow. ... Wild Amaranth. Weds protect essential top soil from being washed or blown away. Bringing Up Nutrients and Water: Dandelions, prickly lettuce, spiny sow thistle, wild amaranths, cockleburs, nightshades and Queen Anne’s lace are examples of weeds that have very strong roots that go deep into the ground. Weeds with deep taproots can benefit a garden by breaking up hard soil and bring up nutrients from the areas that most plants are unable to reach. If the weeds are composted or turned into the soil, the nutrients that they have absorbed will be distributed for other plants to use. As well, moisture is also wicked upwards outside of the roots for other plants to benefit from. Weeds like Mugwort may also be helpful in absorbing heavy metals from the ground, stopping erosion and adding nutrients to soil. Attracting Beneficial Insects and Luring Away Pests: Certain repellent weeds such as dandelions, cockleburs and goldenrod can help to deter pests such as army worms. As well, other weeds including Lamb’s-quarters and Rosa multiflora will help protect your garden by luring away insects such as leaf miners and Japanese beetles that might otherwise feed on your plants. Pennycress and dandelions are also great weeds for attracting beneficial insects. Clover is a common weed that can be used to attract earthworms and also to lure away pests such as rabbits. In addition, certain weeds such as Queen Anne’s lace, goldenrod, evening primrose, wild mustard, amaranth and dandelions will help to attract beneficial insects that will feed on and eliminate the harmful ones. So, next time you go to weed your garden take a closer look and remember not all weeds are bad! https://www.absorbentproductsltd.com/not-all-weeds-are-bad-your-guide-to-reaping-the-benefits-of-good-weeds-in-the-garden/ Weeds are aggressive and will take over your garden and choke out your vegetables and you may not want to or can dig them up you can use weed dragon or mini dragon from flame engineering use twvg 19 at check out to get free shipping Or Bio safe weeds killer for organic gardens Save 10% on your next order use coupon code TWVG at checkout. Guest: Jessica Aldridge ( Adventures In Waste) http://adventuresinwaste.com/ Jessica Aldridge is the founder of Adventures in Waste and is a hotshot in the recycling world. Her passion for environmental education led to creating Zero Waste programs and other sustainability projects for corporations, cities, and municipalities in Southern California. What is adventures in waste? We always hear - reduce, reuse, and recycle - are these all good methods in reducing waste? Is one better than the other? A lot of people think recycling isnt as environmentally efficient as we think it is - and could be going straight to the landfill even if we put it in the recycle bin - is there any truth to that? Why is it important for us to think about where our waste goes and waste reduction? Lets talk about the numbers on recyclables - are all recyclables equal? For example, is a 3 the same in all the same types of plastic? How can we find out more about you? Garden questions 2. Q: I have a pineapple plant going on two years old. Should I plant it in the ground, in hopes that it will flower? 3. With my straw bale garden I am also wondering if I should water all the plants every day. I had always thought peppers needed less water but wondered if the answer was different with straw bale gardens. 4. Can I eat rhubarb when it has flowered? 5. over fertilization what to do now. Tweet us at #twvg or @twvgshow The show runs March - Oct Check out the following sponsors that make the radio show possible: Thank you Power Planter of www.powerplanter.com IV Organics of www.ivorganics.com Dr. Earth of www.drearth.com organic Root maker of www.rootmaker.com Flame Engineering Inc. of www.flameengineering.com Use coupon code WVG19 to get free shipping. Pomona Universal Pectin of www.pomonapectin.com Bobbex of www.Bobbex.com: Beans & Barley of www.beansandbarley.com MIgardener of www.MIgardener.com Outpost Natural Foods Co-op of www.outpost.coop Root Assassin of www.rootassassinshovel.com . Handy Safety Knife of www.handysafetyknife.com Use promo code WVG to get 10% off &free shipping one time use only BioSafe of www.biosafe.net Save 10% on your next order use coupon code TWVG at checkout Chapin Manufacturing Inc. of www.chapinmfg.com Pro Plugger of www.proplugger.com Dharmaceuticals of www.dharmaceuticals.com Soil Savvy of www.mysoilsavvy.com Use coupon code TWVG19 to save 10% at checkout Tomato Snaps of www.tomatosnaps.com Drip Garden of www.dripgarden.com Drip Garden Wisconsin Greenhouse company https://wisconsingreenhousecompany.com/ Standard Process Inc. of www.standardprocess.com Big Fat’s Hot Sauce of www.bigfatshotsauce.com Soil Diva of www.soildiva.net World’s coolest floating rain gauge of www.WorldsCoolestRainGauge.com Clyde’s vegetable planting chart of www.clydesvegetableplantingchart.com NuNu Natural Healing of www.nunuhealing.com RowMaker of www.rowmaker.com Eco Garden Systems of www.ecogardensystems.com Use coupon code (wiveg2019) and get $295 off the list price of $1,695 PLUS free shipping (a $250 value). Shield n seal of www.shieldnseal.com Bluemel's garden & landscape center of www.bluemels.com Phyllom BioProducts of PhyllomBioProducts.com Norwalk juicers of www.norwalkjuicers.com Use coupon code Garden talk Free Continental US shipping on the Model 290 Juicer Tree Ripe of https://www.tree-ripe.com/ Hydrobox of https://gohydrobox.com/