Podcasts about plastic waste

What if we could recycle just half of the plastic currently going to landfills?The answer: 173,000 new jobs, nearly $50 billion in economic output, and a stronger American manufacturing base.In this episode of Sustainably Speaking, host Mia Quinn welcomes back Ross Eisenberg, president of America's Plastic Makers, for a wide-ranging conversation on why recycling is no longer just an environmental issue—it's an economic and manufacturing opportunity hiding in plain sight.Ross highlights what's actually working in recycling today, from large-scale facilities turning plastic  into new products to advanced technologies that can recover materials once thought to be unrecyclable. He explains why the idea that “recycling doesn't work” is one of the biggest myths holding back progress.The conversation also tackles the policy choices shaping the future of recycling, including:Why flexible, technology-neutral policies matter more than one-size-fits-all mandatesHow mass balance works (and why it's similar to Fair Trade coffee)What states are getting right—and wrong—on Extended Producer ResponsibilityWhy a federal definition of advanced recycling as manufacturing could unlock investment nationwideLooking ahead, Ross shares what success could look like, from scaling U.S. recycling infrastructure to reaching a global plastics agreement that expands access to waste management for billions of people worldwide.And yes, there's some fun along the way…from K-pop playlists to shark diving and guilty-pleasure reality TV.

This conversation was recorded live at Lumpen Radio in Chicago on Saturday, January 10, 2026.Ep # 100: Chicago Artist Deirdre Fox on Turning Plastic Waste into Environmental Art & Visual PoetrySummary of the episodeChicago-based artist Deirdre Fox joins noseyAF for a live, unedited conversation from 105.5 FM Lumpen Radio about art, plastic waste, and environmental consciousness. Deirdre's practice transforms discarded consumer packaging into drawings, fiber works, and installations that challenge how we think about disposability, permanence, and material value.In this episode, host Stephanie Graham talks with Deirdre about her artistic journey, the idea of visual poetry, and how mindfulness—both in making and consuming—shapes her work. Together, they explore the tension between organic and synthetic materials, the limits of recycling, and the role artists play in addressing environmental responsibility through creative practice.This conversation invites listeners to slow down, look closer, and reconsider the materials that move through their everyday lives.What we talk aboutTransforming plastic consumer packaging into drawings, fiber works, and installationsVisual poetry and storytelling through materialMindfulness, consumption, and environmental responsibilityThe evolution of Deirdre's artistic practice from representational to abstract workMaking art that lives in the tension between permanence and disposabilityChapters: • 00:00 - Introduction to noseyAF• 02:30 - Deirdre's Artistic Journey with Plastic Waste • 15:20 - Reflecting on Pouch Cove • 29:36 - Finding One's Voice in Art • 42:56 - Balancing Time and Creativity • 52:13 - Exploring Artistic Processes and Sustainability • 58:43 - Exploring Artistic CollaborationsAll about… Deirdre FoxYou're gonna love Deirdre they're a Chicago-based artist turning everyday plastic waste into visually refined, quietly radical works of environmental reflection.Deirdre Fox crochets and weaves plastic consumer packaging into drawings, fiber pieces, and drawing installations. Her work functions as personal gestures of environmental consciousness, rooted in the understanding that plastics made for convenience—like single-use bags—last far longer than intended, and that recycling alone is not an adequate solution.Her practice questions systems of built-in obsolescence and accumulated waste, while creating visual poems that hold time, care, and material awareness. Deirdre has exhibited at FlexSpace Riverside Art Center, Hyde Park Art Center, Boundary Chicago, Evanston Art Center, the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Koehnline Museum of Art Gallery, and the Swedish American Museum, among others. She has received multiple grants from the City of Chicago and the Illinois Arts Council and maintains her studio at Mana Contemporary Chicago.Sponsor Shoutout

Polystyrene is the chemical compound that makes up styrofoam, which is used for packaging and insulation. But it's not the most environmentally friendly.By one estimate, 40 million tons of polystyrene were produced globally in 2024, leaving millions of tons of plastic waste. The search for an earth-friendly alternative has led researchers to dig deep and come up with an unlikely solution: fungus. The BBC's Anna Holligan has this story.

Polystyrene is the chemical compound that makes up styrofoam, which is used for packaging and insulation. But it's not the most environmentally friendly.By one estimate, 40 million tons of polystyrene were produced globally in 2024, leaving millions of tons of plastic waste. The search for an earth-friendly alternative has led researchers to dig deep and come up with an unlikely solution: fungus. The BBC's Anna Holligan has this story.

Send us a textOn this episode of The Sustainable Business Spotlight, I sit down with Jestine, founder of Sustainable Classrooms, a Montana-based nonprofit, turning plastic waste into building blocks for education in Togo, West Africa. We talk about tackling plastic pollution, working across cultures, and building classrooms with locally sourced materials, all while creating jobs and improving student access to food and healthcare.Jestine shares how a post-college trip turned into a mission to build more than just infrastructure. With a small but mighty team on the ground and a growing community of supporters, she's proving that one idea, and one brick at a time, can make a global impact.Whether you're working on your own eco-startup or looking for inspiration to take action, this episode highlights how grassroots solutions can drive sustainable change.In this episode: 01:33 – How a trip to Southeast Asia and Africa sparked the idea 03:54 – Living in Togo and building trust with the local community 06:34 – Turning shredded plastic into bricks for classrooms 09:05 – Connecting with students through language and shared experience 13:50 – How power outages are shaping their shift to solar energy 16:57 – Supporting students with school lunches and health programs 19:36 – Ways to support Sustainable Classrooms and follow their journeyIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who cares about sustainability!Links:Website: https://www.sustainableclassrooms.eco/Instagram: @sustainable_classroomsFacebook: Sustainable Classrooms LinkedIn: Sustainable ClassroomsTikTok: @sustainable_classroomsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIUFEMKEkIa5C5kHKyK-pQAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

With cold season here, our disposable mask defense is back. But when we toss it away, its story isn't over. It begins a centuries-long sentence in landfills and oceans. What if we could commute that sentence? Scientists may have found a way, transforming this symbol of waste into a tool for cleanup. Is this the key to breaking a toxic cycle? On the show: Steve, Fei Fei & Yushan

How can global corporations and local entrepreneurs collaborate to fight plastic pollution at scale?In this week's episode, host Anna Stablum welcomes Jessie Coates, EY Corporate Responsibility Markets Leader, and Bintang Ekananda, Founder and CEO of Alner. Together, they unpack the unique public-private partnership known as TRANSFORM, a collaboration between Unilever, the United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and EY. This decade-long initiative connects multinationals with mission-driven startups in Asia and Africa to scale innovative, market-based solutions.Jessie and Bintang share how Alner's refill-and-reuse business model is helping reduce plastic waste in Indonesia and how this collaboration supports both impact and profitability.During this episode, you will learn:How refill systems are transforming local retail in IndonesiaWhy big brands benefit from investing in impact-driven startupsHow public-private partnerships accelerate sustainability solutionsWhat's needed to scale circular packaging models & reduce single-use plastic wasteDon't miss an episode—subscribe to ESG Decoded on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social for the latest updates!Episode Resources: Alner – Circular Retail & Refill Solutions in Indonesia: https://www.alner.id/ TRANSFORM Program – Unilever, UK FCDO and EY Impact Accelerator: https://transform.global/ EY Ripples – Shaping the future with confidence: https://www.ey.com/en_gl/corporate-responsibility/ey-ripples UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution (Global Plastics Treaty Overview): https://www.unep.org/intergovernmental-negotiating-committee-plastic-pollution -About ESG Decoded ESG Decoded is a podcast powered by ClimeCo to share updates related to business innovation and sustainability in a clear and actionable manner. Join Emma Cox, Erika Schiller, and Anna Stablum for thoughtful, nuanced conversations with industry leaders and subject matter experts that explore the complexities about the risks and opportunities connected to (E)nvironmental, (S)ocial and (G)overnance. We like to say that “ESG is everything that's not on your balance sheet.” This leaves room for misunderstanding and oversimplification – two things that we'll bust on this podcast.ESG Decoded | Resource Links Site: https://www.climeco.com/podcast-series/Apple Podcasts: https://go.climeco.com/ApplePodcastsSpotify: https://go.climeco.com/SpotifyYouTube Music: https://go.climeco.com/YouTube-MusicLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/esg-decoded/IG: https://www.instagram.com/esgdecoded/*This episode was produced by Singing Land Studio  About ClimeCoClimeCo is an award-winning leader in decarbonization, empowering global organizations with customized sustainability pathways. Our respected scientists and industry experts collaborate with companies, governments, and capital markets to develop tailored ESG and decarbonization solutions. Recognized for creating high-quality, impactful projects, ClimeCo is committed to helping clients achieve their goals, maximize environmental assets, and enhance their brand.ClimeCo | Resource LinksSite: https://climeco.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/climeco/IG: https://www.instagram.com/climeco/

EMV Capital (AIM:EMVC) CEO Dr Ilian Iliev and Marvine Besong, MD and CTO of EMV portfolio company DeepTech Recycling, talked with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the company's breakthrough plastic recycling technology and how it supports a circular economy. Besong explained that traditional recycling methods, such as mechanical recycling, often degrade the quality of plastics and can only process a narrow range of materials. In contrast, DeepTech Recycling uses a process that converts plastics back into oil. “This process can be repeated over and over again without the loss of quality,” he said. This approach allows for the creation of new, high-quality plastics from waste, significantly expanding the types of plastics that can be recycled and reused. The company is currently focusing on commercial applications in the plastic packaging sector, which accounts for around 40–45% of global plastic waste. Iliev said the company's "Venture Build" program is centred on supporting IP-rich, disruptive technologies with scalable potential. He added that DeepTech Recycling's capital-light structure, which separates project funding from core IP and licensing, offers potential for substantial non-dilutive returns to investors. Besong noted that the company is nearing final investment decisions on several commercial initiatives. The next 12 to 18 months are expected to include financial close and the launch of revenue-generating projects. For more interviews like this, visit Proactive's YouTube channel. Don't forget to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and turn on notifications so you never miss an update. #PlasticRecycling #CircularEconomy #DeepTechRecycling #SustainableTech #Cleantech #WasteToEnergy #PlasticWaste #GreenInvesting #EMVCapital #RecyclingInnovation

Listen to the Top News of 09/11/2025 from Australia, India and around the world in Hindi.

Karl and Erum sit down with Gabe Tavas, CEO and co-founder of Symmetry Wood, who is pioneering a revolutionary approach to wood production. Gabe shares his journey from design student to bio-innovator, inspired by his time volunteering in rural Ecuador where he witnessed the devastating impact of plastic waste. His company has developed Pyrus, the first solid wood made primarily from bacterial nanocellulose—specifically, waste from the world's largest kombucha brewery. Instead of logging endangered tropical hardwoods, Symmetry Wood is targeting the high-end guitar industry first, proving that biodesigned materials can meet the most demanding performance standards. Gabe discusses the technical challenges of working with living systems, the importance of starting with niche markets before scaling to mass production, and his vision for fab cities where wood and other materials are manufactured locally from urban waste. This conversation bridges design, biology, and entrepreneurship, offering a glimpse into a future where we can create beautiful, high-performance materials without harming forests or ecosystems.Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?Learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.messaginglab.com/groweverything⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Chapters:(00:00:00) - Introduction: Daylight Savings & The Joy of Extra Sleep(00:02:58) - The Art of Repair: Erum's Kintsugi Journey(00:05:18) - Wine as Art: Drops of God & Sensory Storytelling(00:06:25) - Cosmic Mysteries: Comet Atlas & The Wow Signal(00:09:39) - Synonym's Latest: Scaling Bio-Manufacturing(00:11:44) - Meet Gabe Tavas: The Man Growing Wood From Bacteria(00:15:00) - From Ecuador to Biodesign: Finding Purpose in Plastic Waste(00:18:58) - The Science Unveiled: How Pyrus Mimics Natural Wood(00:22:40) - Living Factories: The Challenge of Working With Microbes(00:25:00) - Circular Innovation: Transforming Kombucha Waste Into Premium Materials(00:31:23) - Strategic Launch: Why Start With $10,000 Guitars?(00:35:38) - Ecological Symbiosis: Co-Creating Materials With Nature(00:39:00) - The Fab City Vision: Localized Bio-Manufacturing Revolution(00:42:00) - Quick Fire: Gabe's Favorite Materials, Books & Bio-Inspirations(00:43:44) - Closing Thoughts: What It Takes to Build the Bio-EconomyLinks and Resources:Symmetry WoodSymmetry Wood InstagramSymmetry Wood LinkedInSymmetry Wood on CBS series The VisoneersLand Art GeneratorInvent WoodSynonym Partnered with BrenntagBiofabricate138. Living Textures, Wild Pigments: Suzanne Lee on Nature's New Aesthetic ToolboxJuniper VC153. Ghosts of Biotech Past: Veronica Breckenridge's Playbook for Smarter ScalingAvi Loeb on the 3I/ATLASTedX⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Topics Covered: biomaterials, wood, lumber, bacterial cellulose, industrial biomanufacturing, biotech, businessHave a question or comment? Message us here:Text or Call (804) 505-5553 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow Everything⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com

Oh! This cafe looks good! But everyone here has old plastic bags. They have old plastic bottles too. Why? 咦? 這間咖啡館的顧客，手上都拿著舊塑膠袋跟寶特瓶欸！Click HERE for the full transcript!

Sebastian DiGrande is the Chief Executive Officer of Plastic Credit Exchange (PCX), where he leads the company's mission to eliminate plastic waste through a technology-driven, market-based platform. Under his leadership, PCX is building a verified marketplace that connects corporations with plastic recovery and recycling partners worldwide, creating measurable, scalable environmental impact.Before joining PCX, Sebastian held senior executive roles at Gap Inc., overseeing more than $5 billion in global P&Ls across e-commerce, credit, international franchises, and the Intermix brand. Earlier, he spent nearly two decades at The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) as a Senior Partner and Managing Director, where he led major practices in technology, marketing, and pricing, helped launch BCG Digital Ventures, and advised global consumer and retail clients on digital transformation. He currently serves on the Board of Directors at Big Lots and lectures at leading business schools including Stanford, UCLA Anderson, and Wharton.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-digrande-b34961/ 

Economist Dr. Raymond Robertson joins host Brad Swail on Texas Talks to explain a surprising discovery: the United States actually imports plastic waste — and how tariffs, recycling incentives, and Texas-style solutions could change that. Robertson, Director of the Mosbacher Institute at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, breaks down how a simple deposit-refund system could clean up our lakes, create jobs, and save millions, while reviving the “Don't Mess With Texas” spirit for a new generation. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks

French startup Le Pavé and its co-founder and CEO, Marius Hamelot, were awarded the Ivy Tech Prize for Young French Entrepreneur of the Year this Tuesday. Hamelot joins us on set to explain the process he uses to upcycle everyday waste, how it reduces carbon emissions, and the importance of aesthetics.

Solgaard founder Adrian Solgaard shares how crowdfunding, design, and sustainability shaped his global travel brand.For more on Solgaard and show notes click here Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (otherwise known as PET plastic) is a clear, strong, lightweight plastic used for food and beverage containers, textiles, and many other things.  It is one of the most pervasive forms of plastic piling up in the world's oceans, in landfills, and elsewhere.  Getting rid of it is a real challenge. Scientists at the […]

Plastic represents a huge waste disposal problem around the world. What if there was a way to Cleanly convert this waste plastic to energy and solid carbon? Ed VanDyne, CEO of the company Plastic2Green tells us how.

How the Vancouver Whitecaps are tackling plastic waste in professional sports Guest: Tosaint Ricketts, Club and Player Engagement Liaison for the Vancouver Whitecaps Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sign up to the Greenpeace petition to stop lobbyists being part of the negotiations: https://act.gp/4fGLSqU   Welcome back to The Keto Vegan Podcast, I'm Rach your host — and no, today we're not talking seitan or macros. We're talking plastic. Yep, the kind clogging our oceans, food chains, and apparently now our lungs too. This week's episode unpacks what happened in Geneva at the UN plastics summit — where nearly 200 countries came together to save the planet… or at least that was the plan. Spoiler alert: it didn't go well. But before we dive into the lobbyist chaos and treaty collapse, if you're loving the mix of planet, science and a bit of sass, make sure you follow, subscribe, and share the pod. Every little bit helps amplify these conversations — and keeps us plastic-free and proud. Key Takeaways The Geneva Plastics Treaty Talks Collapsed Despite high hopes, the 11-day UN summit ended with no agreement, thanks to deep divides between countries pushing for action and petrochemical giants resisting change. Production Caps Were the Main Battleground Nations like Rwanda and the EU pushed for caps on plastic production — but were blocked by oil-rich states and corporate lobbyists fighting to protect their profits. Two Draft Treaties, Zero Agreement One ambitious, one watered-down — neither treaty moved forward. The US and allies flatly refused to accept binding rules on production and toxic chemicals. Lobbyists Hijacked the Negotiations Big Plastic sent in their troops — lobbyists from Shell and INEOS — to water down commitments and stall progress, raising serious questions about who's writing our environmental policies. Where Do We Go From Here? Some nations, like Colombia, are moving ahead solo. China's hints at lifecycle reform are promising. And grassroots pressure — from us — is more vital than ever. No Treaty Is Better Than a Weak One As frustrating as the collapse is, accepting a toothless deal would've been worse. Real change will need grit, persistence and, yes, probably more chaos before progress. Best Moments “You can't keep mopping up the floor if the tap stays on.” “It's like letting tobacco companies write the smoking laws.” “Waiting for consensus isn't going to cut it this time.” “They said, ‘Don't worry, I'll tidy up my room eventually' — while continuing to chuck pizza boxes out the window.” “Geneva was supposed to be the place where the tide turned. Instead, it was where the tide pulled us under.” “Plastic pollution isn't waiting for anyone — and neither should we.” #PlasticCrisis #UNPlasticTreaty #GenevaSummit #SayNoToPlastic #BigPlasticExposed #KetoVeganPlanet #EcoActivism #SustainableLiving #LobbyistTakeover #PetrochemicalPollution #ZeroWasteLiving #EnvironmentalPodcast #ClimateCrisis Valuable Resources For an extensive list of foods with their carb, fat and protein count, go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how For a keto-vegan start-up menu and shopping list go here: https://www.rachelgtherapy.co.uk/1-what-why-and-how Host Bio Rachel, a once morbidly obese individual, experienced a remarkable body transformation through the keto diet. Later, she embraced veganism and now shares her extensive knowledge and obsession with carbs in vegan proteins on The Keto Vegan podcast. Her goal is to demonstrate the simplicity of combining the keto diet with a vegan lifestyle. Resources: https://theketovegan.life Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheKetoVegan/podcasts Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/821471059206067 Email: rachelghinn@gmail.com 

By clicking here you can anonymously (except for the last 4 digits of your number) let me know what you think about my podcast and what you'd like to hear about on an upcoming episode of Wonder Boldly. Thank you so much!In this inspiring episode of Wonder Boldly, host Christine Santos sits down with Kate Assaraf, founder of Dip Sustainable Hair Care, a plastic-free haircare brand that rivals the performance of prestige salon products, without a single bottle of waste.From endocrine disruptors in plastics to surfing with conditioner bars, Kate shares the deeply personal story behind Dip, including the research that sparked her mission, the rigorous product development process (over 40 iterations), and her refreshing take on slow growth, sustainability, and community-first marketing.Whether you're an entrepreneur, a conscious consumer, or a haircare junkie, this episode is packed with lessons on building a values-driven brand that solves real problems, while keeping things fun and playful.Episode Highlights:00:00 Meet Kate Assaraf, Founder of Dip, trail runner, and sustainability advocate02:00 How a book about raising boys led to a deep dive on plastics and endocrine disruptors04:00 How Kate's own shower exposed the hidden challenge of going plastic-free—luxury shampoo bottles she couldn't quit07:00 The challenge of creating a high-performance bar for salon brand lovers, not just eco-conscious consumers09:00 Understanding your true customer and why Dip isn't for everyone10:00 Obsessing over your product, how Kate's love for hair guided product development12:00 Real-world use cases, runners, nurses, ocean lovers, and those who shower daily13:00 Saving $500 a year and ditching non-recyclable conditioner bottles14:00 Dip's cult following in the surf community, and how it won't melt in your beach bag16:00 "If you don't live your own product, it's very hard to sell"19:00 Kate's philosophy on community, accessibility, and human-first entrepreneurship22:00 Shop small, how to find Dip in a local store near you or online23:00 Final thoughts on purpose, sustainability, and building a happy businessFind out more: Website: https://dipalready.com/Find a Local Small Business selling DIP: https://dipalready.com/pages/store-locatorInstagram and TikTok: @dipalreadySupport the showPlease share this with a friend who might need a little extra inspiration. Don't forget to tag @christinebsantos on Instagram! If this episode helped you in any way, please consider supporting Christine by inquiring about her Podcast Production Offers - you can dm Christine here: https://www.instagram.com/christinebsantos/ or send an email to hello@christinebsantos.com. Check out her Website: Wonder Boldly Christine is a proud Brand Ambassador for Harborside Bath and Body: https://harborsidebathandbody.com?sca_ref=7834407.5lPJ3nNEGR. Her go to small business for toxin-free and organic body and hair care needs. Check them out using this link https://harborsidebathandbody.com?sca_ref=7834407.5lPJ3nNEGR.If you make a purchase using the link Christine will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting small businesses.Thank you so much for listening. It would mean the world, if you'd subscribe/follow, share it with a friend and leave a 5 star review. It takes all of us, let's support small businesses together!

The U.S. produces more plastic waste than any other country in the world. Last year, more than 35,000 tons of it was shipped to Malaysia, which received more discarded plastic from rich nations than any other developing country. But in June, Malaysian leaders effectively banned future shipments. John Yang speaks with Anja Brandon, director of plastics policy at Ocean Conservancy, to learn more. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

The U.S. produces more plastic waste than any other country in the world. Last year, more than 35,000 tons of it was shipped to Malaysia, which received more discarded plastic from rich nations than any other developing country. But in June, Malaysian leaders effectively banned future shipments. John Yang speaks with Anja Brandon, director of plastics policy at Ocean Conservancy, to learn more. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders

Fletcher Building is using hard-to-recycle plastics as fuel for its Golden Bay cement factory, in Whangarei. 

(Friday 06/27/25)Supreme Court to issue rulings today on birthright citizenship, porn sites, and more. Malaysia will stop taking U.S. plastic waste… What will California do? I have incontinence... how to avoid accidents when you leave home. Trump bans ‘negative' signage at national park, asks visitors to report unpatriotic text.

Get our premium episode archive: https://www.patreon.com/ieltssfs You should say: where and when you saw the plastic waste, why there was a lot of plastic waste, what you did after you saw it, and explain what your thoughts were about this. Tune in and have a great day! - Book a class with Rory here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://successwithielts.com/rory⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Our course on Phrasal Verbs: https://successwithielts.com/podcourses Transcript: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up for our archive to get access to the transcript⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Find an IELTS Speaking Partner: https://links.successwithielts.com/ieltspartner Our social media: https://linktr.ee/successwithielts © 2025 Podcourses Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are sharing an episode from Boiling Point, a podcast by L.A. Times Studios that looks at the climate challenges facing California and the American West, and the solutions to fix them. "Breaking Down Plastics" features an interview with journalist Susanne Rust about why plastics are unavoidable, what that means for our health and what lawsuits can achieve.

Plastics are everywhere and the concerns for how they affect our environment and our health are leading scientists to explore new ways to contend with plastic waste. Dr. Damien Guironnet, an associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, and Dr. Alexa Kuenstler, an assistant professor specializing in catalysis and polymer upcycling, spoke to Community Voices about their research.

In the second installment our SXSW conversation with Rey Banatao and Peter Chauvel from Google X, we explore what it looks like to build ambitious ideas from the ground up. This episode dives into early ‘Moonshot' experiments with textile recycling, the role biology could play in the future of materials, and how big ideas move from the whiteboard to the real world.We also go behind the scenes of Moonshot Madness — a company-wide tradition at X to identify big ideas that could change everything.In this episode, you'll hear:How clothing could be transformed into new, reusable materialsHow bioplastics and synthetic biology could shape the next era of manufacturingHow teams at Google's X, the Moonshot Factory test ideas— and learn as they goWhat Moonshot Madness is, and how it fuels a culture of experimentationHow Rey and Peter's experiences have influenced their approach to sustainability and innovationThis episode encourages you to imagine what a circular future could look like across industries — from plastics to fashion and beyond.

A year's worth of plastic waste, once collected for recycling, may now end up in the landfill. The market for coloured plastics dried up with the closure of Chinese recycling plants, and as a result, the Far North District Council is set to send 190 tonnes of plastic to the landfill. Sue Coutts, Director of External Affairs for Zero Waste Network NZ, told Mike Hosking it's no surprise the coloured bottles won't be recycled, as they've known they can't be for about a decade. She says there's plenty of good ideas out there to mitigate the problem, they just need to be implemented. Coutts says the Government is currently consulting on extending producer responsibility, which would put the problem back into the hands of the ones creating it. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Biodiversity is life on earth as we know it. From our genetics and bacteria to entire ecosystems of forests and coral reefs, biodiversity is critical to all aspects of life. From food and water, to medicine, to climate stability. In this episode, we discuss the work of Jane Goodall and the Jane Goodall Institute in preserving biodiversity to secure a prosperous and stable future for this planet. Host: Maithreyi SeetharamanShow Producer: Lisa Desai  Sound Production: PhiLipp Schweidler, Department of NoiseArtwork: Dow Creative Element  

Ocean plastics are a danger to the environment and humans. Cleaning it up and avoiding it from happening is a business opportunity, though. In this episode, Ellen Martin, Chief Impact Officer at Circulate Capital, presents how the circular startups in their portfolio tackle the plastics crisis while running profitable businesses. With venture capital investments in Asia and Latin America, Ellen highlights commonalities and differences of markets in these continents. She illustrates the dependency of circular business models on local circumstances. This episode is part of VC for Circularity - the Venture Capital Perspective on Circular Economy Startups.

Is AI really the whole story of the future? In this episode, we're asking what else is on the horizon for the future of plastic waste. We are joined by the 311 Institute to hear about the game-changing trends that are reshaping industry. From AI to synthetic biology and nanotech, the 311 Institute is looking for new ways to provide all with access to the tools that shape the future. Host: Maithreyi Seetharaman Show Producer: Lisa Desai Sound Production: PhiLipp Schweidler, Department of Noise Artwork: Dow Creative Element

Data collection and analysis is a vital step in the fight to end plastic pollution. AI could hold the answers, however it also poses significant challenges. Here we discuss how AI technology is influencing research at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) and at Wageningen University to see how they are overcoming these new challenges.  

With 2.7 billion people lacking access to waste management, this essential step in advancing a circular economy poses a significant challenge. In this opening episode for season 4 of Plastics Unwrapped, we look back on the previous 5 meetings of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) and discuss how we can find middle ground between industry and policy to end plastic pollution for good.  

April 29, 2025 - Sen. Monica Martinez, a Long Island Democrat, talks about why she is pushing plastic packaging waste legislation that is an alternative to a proposal with waste reduction mandates that has been under consideration for years.

On this Live Greatly podcast episode, in honor of Earth Day, Kristel Bauer sits down with Erin Simon, Vice President and Head of Plastic Waste and Business of the World Wildlife Fund.  Kristel and Erin discuss actionable ways that you can make an impact around conservation, how to navigate overwhelm in the conservation space and lots more!  Tune in now! Key Takeaways From This Episode: WWF's Give an Hour for Earth campaign WWF's No plastic in nature initiative How individuals can reduce plastic use in their homes and everyday life to improve their health and the health of the planet General information about plastic pollution – how big is the problem, what are some of the solutions How to handle overwhelm when it comes to conservation  About Erin Simon: Erin's mandate is to drive positive change across industries in packaging and material sustainability—an area of action that is critical to conserving the world's natural resources, and one that is key to WWF's mission of protecting people and the planet. Since joining WWF in 2011, Erin has played an integral role in growing the partnerships, programs, and science that have made WWF a leader in solving one of most pressing environmental issues of our time: plastic pollution. In addition to helping spearhead WWF's No Plastic in Nature initiative, Erin has led the development of programs to transform the way the world—and specifically business—fights the plastic waste crisis. In 2019, her team launched ReSource: Plastic, the corporate action hub to tackle the plastic pollution crisis, and since then has built out a robust portfolio of efforts and partnerships to help companies take meaningful, ambitious steps towards circularity. Erin is one of WWF's leading experts on plastics and packaging and a key member of the WWF delegation advocating for a global plastics treaty, a first-ever international binding agreement on plastic pollution. Before WWF, Erin was a packaging engineer at HP for 10 years, responsible for the design and implementation of laser jet printer and media packaging. Erin lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband, daughter, and dog. When she's not working, you can find her kayaking with her family. Connect with World Wildlife Fund and Erin Simon: You can go to wwf.help/hour to learn more and bank your hours for Give and Hour for Earth Website: https://www.worldwildlife.org/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/wwfus  LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-simon/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/World_Wildlife/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldwildlifefund  Reusable Trash Bag Erin mentioned in epiosde:  https://www.tombag.com.au/?srsltid=AfmBOoo4fjK49lj-r7h2n3MCBxsW59yCkgkKE8xBtJO_YQPFBCl5cfFz About the Host of the Live Greatly podcast, Kristel Bauer: Kristel Bauer is a corporate wellness and performance expert, keynote speaker and TEDx speaker supporting organizations and individuals on their journeys for more happiness and success. She is the author of Work-Life Tango: Finding Happiness, Harmony, and Peak Performance Wherever You Work (John Murray Business November 19, 2024). With Kristel's healthcare background, she provides data driven actionable strategies to leverage happiness and high-power habits to drive growth mindsets, peak performance, profitability, well-being and a culture of excellence. Kristel's keynotes provide insights to “Live Greatly” while promoting leadership development and team building.   Kristel is the creator and host of her global top self-improvement podcast, Live Greatly. She is a contributing writer for Entrepreneur, and she is an influencer in the business and wellness space having been recognized as a Top 10 Social Media Influencer of 2021 in Forbes. As an Integrative Medicine Fellow & Physician Assistant having practiced clinically in Integrative Psychiatry, Kristel has a unique perspective into attaining a mindset for more happiness and success. Kristel has presented to groups from the American Gas Association, Bank of America, bp, Commercial Metals Company, General Mills, Northwestern University, Santander Bank and many more. Kristel has been featured in Forbes, Forest & Bluff Magazine, Authority Magazine & Podcast Magazine and she has appeared on ABC 7 Chicago, WGN Daytime Chicago, Fox 4's WDAF-TV's Great Day KC, and Ticker News. Kristel lives in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area and she can be booked for speaking engagements worldwide. To Book Kristel as a speaker for your next event, click here. Website: www.livegreatly.co  Follow Kristel Bauer on: Instagram: @livegreatly_co  LinkedIn: Kristel Bauer Twitter: @livegreatly_co Facebook: @livegreatly.co Youtube: Live Greatly, Kristel Bauer To Watch Kristel Bauer's TEDx talk of Redefining Work/Life Balance in a COVID-19 World click here. Click HERE to check out Kristel's corporate wellness and leadership blog Click HERE to check out Kristel's Travel and Wellness Blog Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast are intended for informational and educational purposes only. Always seek the guidance of your physician for any recommendations specific to you or for any questions regarding your specific health, your sleep patterns changes to diet and exercise, or any medical conditions.  Always consult your physician before starting any supplements or new lifestyle programs. All information, views and statements shared on the Live Greatly podcast are purely the opinions of the authors, and are not medical advice or treatment recommendations.  They have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration.  Opinions of guests are their own and Kristel Bauer & this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests.  Neither Kristel Bauer nor this podcast takes responsibility for possible health consequences of a person or persons following the information in this educational content.  Always consult your physician for recommendations specific to you.

Zero Waste Store used strategic SEO to grow its sales from $6,000 to $2 million in just one year. Learn how to align your brand content with search intent to continue scaling.For more on Zero Waste Store and show notes click here. 

This week: Sebastian Munden, chair of environmental NGO WRAP, talks with Ian Welsh about the potential of circular plastics and how innovative design can significantly reduce plastic waste. They share insight about the role of regulatory frameworks in shaping sustainable packaging strategies and the need for a radical shift in consumer behaviour to truly drive change. Plus: UK faces surge in plastic bag waste; historic drought threatens global food security; US farmers suffer $20 billion in losses; US funding cuts threaten global conservation efforts; and, Dutch NGO sues ING over climate inaction, in the news digest. Host: Ellen Atiyah

After 3D-printing a habitat for Mars, AI Space Factory, Incorporated, has become a leader in terrestrial applications.

Hit subscribe so you don't miss out on all the inspiring sustainability stories!In this episode, we'll talk about a UN-led $200 B per year backed by multiple nations plan to protect nature, China's renewable energy projects to tackle climate change, as well as some concerning developments in the US to downplay the impact and information around climate change AND the plastic lie that made us LIVID. ⌛⌛TIMESTAMPS02:43 Fast Good News in Sustainability05:12 Challenges Facing National Parks07:37 The Plastic Recycling Lie09:47 The Reality of Plastic Waste as Fuel16:49 The Disillusionment with Recycling Solutions19:03 Investigating Plastic Waste and Its Consequences22:16 The Human Cost of Recycling Efforts24:53 The Deceptive Marketing of TerraCycle27:55 The Illusion of Sustainable Solutions—ARTICLES: Fast Good News:UN talks end in Rome with nations backing $200 billion a year plan to protect nature https://www.ecowatch.com/cop16-biodiversity-conservation-plan.htmlChina announces plans for major renewable projects to tackle climate change https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/china-announces-plans-major-renewable-projects-tackle-climate-change-2025-03-05/Farmers sue USDA after agency deletes climate change data: https://www.alternet.org/farmers-usda-trump/USA national park servicehttps://explorersweb.com/u-s-national-parks-report-record-visitor-numbers-at-catastrophic-time/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czx7kez4vx2oHow to support: https://www.reddit.com/r/NationalPark/comments/1ieojz9/support_national_parks_how_you_can_help_right_now/The conversation: The Plastic LieThe Recycling Myth from the Why: https://youtu.be/j_tgfvomUf8?si=_XOW_4Yfdlvs15Information about using plastic as fuel: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/should-we-burn-plastic-wasteAlliance to end plastic waste: https://www.endplasticwaste.org/How it works, Terracycle: https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/about-terracycle/our_recycling_processLawsuit: https://climatecasechart.com/case/last-beach-cleanup-v-terracycle-inc/#terracycle #plastic #blackmarket #goodnews #cop16 #environmental

“For someone seeing a light bulb for the first time, it is like a magic show from heaven. They are so happy, they are singing. That moment, it never gets old.”Six hundred million people in Africa don't have access to electricity – meaning that for many living on a continent with a median age of 19, the future is anything but bright.But it's a challenge that the winner of this year's Commonwealth Young Person of the Year prize is determined to overcome. Nigeria's Stanley Anigbogu was honoured for his innovations in transforming plastic waste into solar innovations and providing clean energy to thousands of people including refugees. For today's Africa Daily, he speaks to Peter Musembi about his goals and inspirations – including Marvel's Iron Man!

Original Duckhead grew by targeting retailers first, creating risk-free partnerships, and using customer data to boost online sales.

Hydrocarbon Processing spoke with Rob Benedict, Vice President, Petrochemicals and Midstream, AFPM, about the most pressing issues facing the petrochemical industry, from the status of the UN negotiations for a Global Agreement on Plastic Pollution to the reauthorization of the Toxic Substance Control Act.

Hospitals have to use a lot of single-use plastics to deliver care for patients. In today's episode, we look at how one hospital is cutting down through their medical plastics recycling initiative.

Have you ever thought about how your everyday choices can make waves—literal waves—of change? In this episode of The Happy Hustle Podcast, I had an inspiring and thought-provoking chat with Alex Schultz, the co-founder and CEO of Four Ocean. If you're passionate about sustainability and the future of our planet, this conversation is a must-listen!Alex and I dive deep into the concept of the triple bottom line—people, planet, and profit. 4ocean isn't just about selling bracelets; it's about cleaning up the ocean and creating a movement. Alex shared how they've built a business model that ties every product sale to a tangible environmental impact: cleaning one pound of trash from the ocean. It's not just business as usual; it's business with a purpose. Starting and scaling a business with a mission isn't all smooth sailing. Alex opened up about the challenges of running a purpose-driven company, from navigating criticism to engaging employees and building partnerships. He shared actionable tips for entrepreneurs looking to create a lasting impact. This episode is packed with insights for anyone who cares about sustainability, entrepreneurship, or simply living a more mindful life. From uncovering the hidden costs of plastic pollution to learning how businesses can lead the charge for a cleaner planet, Alex's journey is nothing short of inspiring.Don't miss this deep dive into the intersection of business and sustainability. Tune in now, and let's get to Happy Hustlin' for the planet!In this episode, we cover: 00:00 Introduction to Four Ocean and Its Mission02:59 The Triple Bottom Line in Business06:11 Understanding B Corporations and Public Benefit Corporations09:00 The Business Model of Four Ocean12:14 Creating a Movement for Ocean Cleanup15:04 Navigating Challenges and Criticism18:11 Partnerships and Sustainability Initiatives21:05 The Impact of Consumer Choices24:05 Plastic Pollution Statistics and Myths31:50 The Truth About Recycling and Plastic Waste34:34 The Impact of Microplastics on Health37:48 Mindful Living: Small Changes for Big Impact41:45 The Importance of Passion and Purpose in Business43:49 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family Life49:00 Employee Engagement and Company Culture52:28 Rapid Fire Insights and Personal ReflectionsConnect with Alexhttps://www.facebook.com/4oceanBracelets/https://www.instagram.com/4ocean/https://www.tiktok.com/@4oceanhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCT_-OGW5IiUuuHwmuyUPYQhttps://x.com/4oceanhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/4oceanpbc/posts/?feedView=allFind Alex on this website: 4ocean.com Connect with Cary!https://www.instagram.com/caryjack/https://www.facebook.com/SirCaryJackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-jack-kendzior/https://twitter.com/thehappyhustlehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDNsD59tLxv2JfEuSsNMOQ/featured Get a free copy of his new book, The Happy Hustle, 10 Alignments to Avoid Burnout & Achieve Blissful Balance https://www.thehappyhustle.com/bookSign up for The Journey: 10 Days To Become a Happy Hustler Online Course https://thehappyhustle.com/thejourney/Apply to the Montana Mastermind Epic Camping Adventure https://thehappyhustle.com/mastermind/“It's time to Happy Hustle, a blissfully balanced life you love, full of passion, purpose, and positive impact!”Episode Sponsor: Magnesium Breakthrough from BiOptimizers https://bioptimizers.com/happyIf you've been on a restricted diet lately or maybe even taken some meds to shed those pounds for the summer, I gotta warn ya—be careful! You might have unknowingly created a nutrient deficiency that could not only mess with your health but also jeopardize those weight loss goals.Did you know that over 75% of Americans are already deficient in magnesium? Yeah, it's wild! Magnesium is this powerhouse mineral that's involved in over 600 biological reactions in your body. It helps with everything from sleep to stress management to hormone balance—all key players in keeping your weight on track.And if you're still on those meds, you might be dealing with some side effects like sleepless nights, digestive issues, or irritability, which can totally throw off your commitment to your goals. Whether you're taking meds or not, setting up healthy habits is crucial to maintaining your weight over time. One of the best things you can do? Make sure you're getting all the magnesium your body needs.Don't let a magnesium deficiency derail your progress! Give Magnesium Breakthrough by BIOptimizers a shot. Unlike other supplements, this one's got all 7 forms of magnesium that your body can actually absorb, so you get the full spectrum of benefits.This approach will help you crush your goals and maintain a healthy weight while keeping your overall health in check. For an exclusive offer, head to bioptimizers.com/happy and use the promo code 'happy10' at checkout to save 10%. And if you subscribe, you'll snag amazing discounts, free gifts, and a guaranteed monthly supply.

Mind your plastic pollution is a conversation that we all need to have because we all partake in using single-use plastic as the system is set up that way.  In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin engages in a conversation with Natasha Tucker, the Executive Director of Mind Your Plastic, a Canadian charity focused on eliminating plastic pollution. The discussion centers around the pervasive issue of plastic in our environment, emphasizing the need for behavioral change among individuals and businesses to reduce our dependence on plastics. Key points from the episode include: Understanding Plastic Pollution: The episode highlights how plastic is ubiquitous in our lives, affecting not only our oceans but also our health and the environment. The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing the impact of plastic pollution on both a local and global scale. Behavioral Change: Natasha emphasizes that changing consumer habits is crucial. Many people are resistant to altering their behaviors, often clinging to convenience over sustainability. The episode discusses how small actions, such as opting for reusable items instead of single-use plastics, can lead to significant changes over time. Education and Awareness: The importance of education in fostering awareness about plastic pollution is a recurring theme. Natasha shares her journey of engaging with the public through beach cleanups and educational programs, which not only help clean the environment but also inspire others to reconsider their consumption habits. Targeted Messaging: The episode discusses the need for tailored messaging to connect with different audiences. For instance, when speaking to businesses, focusing on the financial benefits of reducing plastic use can be more effective than solely discussing environmental impacts. This approach helps to align sustainability with economic incentives. Community Engagement: Natasha shares experiences from community cleanups, illustrating how direct involvement can lead to a greater understanding of the issue. Engaging with the community fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages individuals to take action against plastic pollution. Policy and Advocacy: The conversation touches on the role of policy in addressing plastic pollution. Natasha explains how Mind Your Plastic advocates for stronger regulations and works with businesses to find sustainable alternatives to plastic. In conclusion, the episode emphasizes that reducing our dependence on plastic pollution requires a collective effort involving education, community engagement, and a willingness to change behaviors. By making conscious choices and advocating for better policies, individuals can contribute to a healthier environment and a more sustainable future. Mind Your Plastic Website: https://mindyourplastic.ca/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Plastic pollution clean up through absorption is now a possibility by using a combination of cotton and chittin to take microplastics out of the ocean...but can this work at scale? In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lo discusses the pressing issue of microplastics in the ocean and introduces a promising new method for their absorption using a combination of cotton and chitin. The mechanism involves creating a sponge-like substance called CT cell biomass, which combines cellulose from cotton and chitin from squid. This innovative material is designed to effectively capture microplastics from water. The process begins by breaking the original hydrogen bonds in cellulose and chitin, allowing them to bind together and form a stable framework with numerous activated hydrogen bonding sites. This structure enhances the material's ability to absorb microplastics through various interactions, including physical interception and electrostatic attraction. Research indicates that this foam can remove 98 to 99.9% of microplastics from water samples, showcasing its potential as an eco-friendly solution for addressing microplastic pollution. The episode emphasizes the importance of developing sustainable strategies for microplastic remediation in aquatic environments, while also highlighting the need for broader efforts to reduce plastic usage at the source. Link to article: https://www.iflscience.com/new-sponge-like-biomass-foam-found-to-soak-up-999-percent-of-microplastics-77223 Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy is a documentary that was released on Netflix a week before Black Friday. The movie reveals the shocking truth about how large corporations manipulate consumers to increase their profits at the peril of the consumer's wallet and the planet's health. In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the recently released Netflix documentary, Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy. The episode focuses on the themes of consumerism, overconsumption, and their environmental impacts, especially in the context of the holiday shopping season. Major Points Discussed: Consumer Culture and Overconsumption: The documentary critiques how companies like Amazon, Adidas, and Apple use persuasive marketing techniques to encourage consumers to overspend. It raises questions about whether society has prioritized material possessions over experiences and relationships. Environmental Impacts: The film highlights the ecological damage caused by excessive consumption, including the disposal of unsold clothing, which contributes to environmental degradation in countries like Ghana. It discusses the issue of e-waste, revealing how discarded electronics are often shipped to developing countries, leading to health hazards for workers who dismantle them without proper protection. Textile Waste and Fast Fashion: The documentary examines the fast fashion industry, showcasing how companies produce millions of items annually, resulting in significant textile waste that pollutes ecosystems. It emphasizes the harmful effects of synthetic fabrics, which release microplastics into waterways. Carbon Footprint and Resource Depletion: The production and transportation of goods are linked to high fossil fuel consumption, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. The extraction of raw materials for consumer goods leads to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. Plastic Waste and Ocean Pollution: Excessive packaging, often made from non-recyclable plastics, exacerbates the plastic waste crisis, harming marine life and ecosystems. The episode stresses the urgent need for sustainable consumption practices to mitigate these issues. Consumer Responsibility vs. Systemic Solutions: While the documentary raises awareness about consumer manipulation, it also questions whether the onus of change should solely fall on consumers. Lewin argues for the need for systematic solutions and corporate accountability to address the root causes of overconsumption and environmental degradation. Personal Reflections: Lewin shares his own struggles with impulse buying and the societal pressures to consume, especially during the holiday season. He encourages listeners to think critically about their purchases and consider sustainable alternatives, such as thrift shopping. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to reflect on their consumption habits and engage in discussions about sustainability and environmental protection. Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the pressing issue of plastic pollution and highlights a promising biological solution involving African mealworms. The episode focuses on the Kenyan lesser mealworm, a larval form of the Alphitobius darkling beetle, which has shown the ability to break down polystyrene, commonly known as styrofoam. This capability is attributed to the unique microbes and bacteria in the mealworms' gut. Researchers are studying these gut bacteria to identify specific communities that facilitate the degradation of plastic materials. Key findings from the research indicate that the mealworms can effectively digest polystyrene when provided with a nutrient-rich diet, such as bran, alongside the styrofoam. This balanced diet appears to enhance the production of the necessary bacteria and enzymes to break down plastic. The study revealed significant shifts in bacterial composition based on the mealworms' diet, suggesting that the gut microbiome adapts to optimize plastic degradation. The episode emphasizes the potential of harnessing these naturally occurring bacteria and enzymes for large-scale applications in plastic waste management, particularly in regions like Africa, where plastic waste poses significant environmental challenges. By isolating and utilizing these microbial communities, there is hope for developing innovative methods to biologically process plastic waste, reducing reliance on harmful chemical recycling methods. The podcast presents a hopeful perspective on using biological solutions, like the African mealworm, to combat plastic pollution and promote environmental conservation. Link to article: https://theconversation.com/plastic-eating-insect-discovered-in-kenya-242787 Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube  

La France a lancé une campagne nationale pour encourager la réduction des déchets plastiques, avec un objectif ambitieux de réduire leur usage de 50 % d'ici cinq ans.Traduction: France has launched a national campaign to encourage the reduction of plastic waste, with an ambitious goal to cut its use by 50% within five years. Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.