What On EARTH Can We Do?: Recent Episodes
Alberta Emerald Foundation
What On EARTH Can We Do? is a storytelling and educational podcast produced by the Alberta Emerald Foundation and created by Hoopla Media in Edmonton, AB. Emerald Award recipients – our province’s environmental leaders – are featured in the annual series through casual conversation with hosts Gregory Caswell (Alberta Emerald Foundation) and Colleen Nuc (Hoopla Media). Each episode surrounds its own environmental topic, with our guests sharing their related achievements, experience, and tips. While tackling these big topics as individuals can seem daunting, we learn that together we can answer the question “What On EARTH Can We Do?”.
The opinions of our guests do not reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation.
This season, we’ve talked about rescuing surplus food, redistributing it to communities, and even turning it into clean energy. But what about the scraps, spoiled produce, bones, peels, and leftovers that can’t be saved?
In this episode, Bri sits down with Brian Wonnacott, superintendent at AltRoot, a composting facility in Westlock that transforms organic waste into a valuable resource for local farms. Brian breaks down how industrial composting works, why microbes are the real stars of the show, and how composting helps reduce methane emissions, support regenerative agriculture, and build a truly circular local economy.
Resources
- AltRoot’s End-to-End Tracability tool
- How to compost at home
About the Podcast
The What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity dedicated to accelerating environmental excellence across Alberta.
Learn more about the AEF
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
What if every community could rescue its food waste — and feed its neighbours at the same time?
In Lacombe, Alberta, Echo Food Rescue is proving it’s possible. Since 2020, this volunteer-driven program has saved nearly one million pounds of food from the landfill, redirecting it to farms and families across their community.
In this episode, we sit down with Christina Sturgeon, program coordinator at Echo Food Rescue, to talk about how the initiative began, what it takes to keep it running, and the powerful role community collaboration plays in fighting food waste.
Learn more about Echo Food Rescue: https://www.echofoodrescue.com/
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The What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity dedicated to accelerating environmental excellence across Alberta.
Learn more about the AEF
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
Food waste isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s an economic one. In this episode, we sit down with Esther Cohn from Flash Food, a Canadian-founded tech company that rescues groceries destined for landfill and offers them to shoppers at a discount.
Discover how Flash Food is making sustainable shopping simple, saving families money, helping grocers cut waste, and preventing over 150 million pounds of food from ending up in landfills. We’ll talk about how the idea came to life, how the app works, and why making sustainability affordable might be the key to lasting change.
Listen to learn:
- How Flash Food connects shoppers with discounted groceries nearing their best-before date
- The environmental and economic impact of rescuing food waste
- Why accessibility and affordability are essential to sustainability
- How changing our mindset about “waste” can help us all make a difference
Download the Flash Food app and start saving money and food today
https://flashfood.com/?showgettheapp=true
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The What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity dedicated to accelerating environmental excellence across Alberta.
Learn more about the AEF
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
By transforming leftover food into low-emission energy, Eco Growth Environmental is helping businesses heat water, power equipment, and cut food waste in landfills — all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this episode, we explore how their made-in-Alberta technology works, the impact it’s having, and where it could take us next.
What’s in this episode:
- 03:36 - How Eco Growth Environmental’s system transforms food waste into a usable energy source
- 07:57 - Why methane reduction is critical to achieving net-zero goals
- 10:27 - The environmental and economic benefits of waste-to-energy technology
- 15:56 - How this innovation is reaching remote communities in the Arctic and beyond
Resources:
- Learn more about Eco-Growth Environmental
- Get a firsthand look at how their technology works
The What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity dedicated to accelerating environmental excellence across Alberta.
Learn more about the AEF
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
When we talk about food waste, most of us picture what ends up in our own kitchen bins — but there’s a whole other side to the story. Across Alberta, small businesses like cafés, restaurants, and grocery stores face big challenges when it comes to keeping food out of the landfill.
In this episode, Bri speaks with Maggie Bain, Project Manager of the ICI Food Waste Diversion Initiative at the Circular Innovation Council, about a pilot program in Strathcona County and Westlock that’s helping small businesses keep food out of landfills.
Together, they unpack how the project worked, what made it successful, and the impact it’s already having — from reducing methane emissions to inspiring long-term change in local communities.
Listen to learn:
- Why it’s so hard (and costly) for small businesses to divert food waste
- How collaboration between local governments, haulers, and processors made it possible
- The impressive results — including nearly 90,000 kg of organics diverted
- What this means for Alberta’s circular economy and the future of food waste solutions
Learn more about The Circular Innovation Council’s Commercial Waste Diversion Pilot
The What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity dedicated to accelerating environmental excellence across Alberta.
Learn more about the AEF
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
The impact of food waste goes far beyond what ends up in our green bins or landfills. It affects our climate, our wallets, and our communities from wasted water and emissions to economic loss.
In part two of our conversation with Dr. Kate Parizeau, we are talking about why food waste matters and what can actually be done about it - from policy and infrastructure changes to simple actions we can all take at home.
Resources:
- Second Harvest and Value Chain Management International report - The Avoidable Crisis of Food Waste
- Food insecurity among Canadian families (StatsCan)
- The Seed (Guelph, ON)
- Echo Food Rescue (Lacombe, AB)
- Circular Innovation Council
The What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity dedicated to accelerating environmental excellence across Alberta.
Learn more about the AEF
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
Food waste is everywhere, from farms to our own kitchens, but what does it actually mean, and why is it so hard to track?
In the first episode of Season 7, host Bri Huot-Boer speaks with Dr. Kate Parizeau from the University of Guelph to unpack the basics: what food waste is, where it happens, and why Canada is still struggling to measure it. This conversation sets the stage for our season-long focus on food waste and the solutions that can make a difference!
Resources:
- Second Harvest
- The Avoidable Crisis of Food Waste (2024)
- National Zero Waste Council
- Circular Innovation Council
The What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity dedicated to accelerating environmental excellence across Alberta.
Learn more about the AEF
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
For over 30 years, the Alberta Recycling Management Authority (ARMA) has been at the forefront of environmental stewardship, diverting millions of tires, litres of oil, and other materials from landfills. Joining us in this episode is Ed Gugenheimer, CEO of ARMA, to discuss the province's leadership in recycling, the evolution of ARMA's programs, and what the future holds for Alberta’s circular economy.
Key Topics* 01:00 - The origins of ARMA and Alberta's early leadership in recycling * 12:06 - Milestones in environmental impact * 15:33 - Innovations in recycling, such as renewable energy components and AI-powered sorting systems * 22:58 - Alberta’s ongoing role as a national leader in sustainable waste management
GuestEd Gugenheimer
Chief Executive Officer, Alberta Recycling Management Authority
Resources Mentioned* Learn more about ARMA and its programs: albertarecycling.ca
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Follow Us:
- Website: Emerald Foundation
- Twitter: @AlbertaEmerald
- Instagram: @AlbertaEmerald
Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
Indigenous people are the original stewards of the land and have an important role to play in our collective response and action to a changing climate. In this episode we’re diving into the importance of reciprocity, the role of Indigenous knowledge in modern stewardship, and the significance of empowering Indigenous youth to lead future environmental initiatives.
Key Topics
- 01:24 - Indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship and climate action
- 04:16 - Alberta-based examples of indigenous-led environmental stewardship
- 08:06 - The role of community in successful environmental initiatives
- 11:37 - Strategies for building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities
- 16:18 - Empowering Indigenous youth to become leaders in environmental stewardship
GuestMackenzie Brown
Mackenzie is an Indigenous singer, drummer, storyteller, knowledge seeker, songwriter, artist, and Cree cultural ambassador. Mackenzie is also First Nations Cree from the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, though she currently live in Mohkinstsis, Calgary.
Resources MentionedBooks:
- Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
- Mother Earth Plants for Health & Beauty: Indigenous Plants, Traditions, and Recipes by Carrie Armstrong
Podcasts:
- Unreserved (CBC)
- The Secret Life of Canada (CBC)
Organizations:
- Future Ancestors
- Indigenous Youth Roots
- We Matter
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Follow Us:
- Website: Emerald Foundation
- Twitter: @AlbertaEmerald
- Instagram: @AlbertaEmerald
Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
Alberta is facing a growing challenge with over 170,000 abandoned oil wells across the province, creating environmental risks and economic burdens for rural communities. RenuWell Energy Solutions is addressing this issue by converting these orphan well sites into community solar projects that generate clean energy and support rural communities. Keith Hirsche, founder of RenuWell, joins host Bri to explain how this innovative approach works, the positive impacts on Albertan communities, and what it means for Alberta’s renewable energy future.
Key Topics:
- Understanding orphan wells (01:33) and their environmental and economic impact (05:31)
- RenuWell’s journey to repurpose orphan wells for solar energy (07:58)
- Social, economic, and environmental benefits of the RenuWell Project (18:00)
- The path forward (21:00)
Guest:
Keith Hirsche, Founder of RenuWell Energy Solutions
Resources Mentioned:
- 170,000 abandoned oil wells in the province
- Environmental risks of orphan wells
- Estimated cost to clean up Alberta’s orphan wells
- Orphan Well Association
- Municipal Climate Change Action Centre
- St. Mary River Irrigation District
- RenuWell Energy Solutions
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Follow Us:
- Website: Emerald Foundation
- Twitter: @AlbertaEmerald
- Instagram: @AlbertaEmerald
Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the Alberta Emerald Foundation. As a non-partisan organization, we are committed to presenting diverse perspectives on environmental issues.
Alberta’s first industrial-scale waste-to-energy facility with carbon capture integration is set to open in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland in 2027. This innovative project will divert over 150,000 tonnes of Edmonton’s residential waste from landfills each year while capturing carbon emissions and generating alternative energy. Rory Wheat, Vice President of Development at Varme Energy, explains how this innovative technology works and its long-term social, environmental, and economic impacts on Edmonton and Alberta.
Key Topics:
- Introduction to Varme Energy and its mission (01:08)
- How waste-to-energy technology works (02:33)
- The environmental benefits of waste-to-energy with integrated carbon capture (05:38)
- Details of the Alberta Industrial Heartland project and partnership with the City of Edmonton (07:22)
- Long-term impact on waste management, energy production, and job creation in Alberta (13:19)
- The role of waste-to-energy in Alberta’s transition to a low-carbon future
Guest:
Rory Wheat - Vice President of Development at Varme Energy
Resources Mentioned:
- Varme Energy website
- Industrial Heartland Project
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Follow Us:
- Website: Emerald Foundation
- Twitter: @AlbertaEmerald
- Instagram: @AlbertaEmerald
Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, TD Friends of the Environment, and City of Calgary
As our landscapes have changed over the years, coyotes have adapted to thrive in urban environments, creating unique challenges and opportunities for coexistence. In this episode, Dr. Colleen Cassady St. Clair unpacks why coyotes are so prevalent in our cities, discusses the challenges of living alongside them, and shares strategies for avoiding conflicts and interactions with these adaptable creatures.
Key Topics:
- The evolution of Alberta’s landscapes and its impact on wildlife
- The adaptability of coyotes in urban settings
- Common challenges arising from human-coyote interactions
- Effective strategies and management techniques for reducing conflicts with coyotes
- The role of public education in promoting coexistence
Guest:
Dr. Colleen Cassady St. Clair, Biological Sciences Professor at the University of Alberta
Resources Mentioned:
- 87.7% of Albertans reside in ‘Urban Municipalities’, including cities, towns, villages, summer villages, and specialized municipalities
- Calgary and Edmonton’s changing landscapes
- The negative effects of land use changes on wildlife
- Edmonton Urban Coyote Project website
- The Urban Wildlife Information Network
- How to avoid and prevent conflict with coyotes
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Follow Us:
- Website: Emerald Foundation
- Twitter: @AlbertaEmerald
- Instagram: @AlbertaEmerald
Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, and City of Calgary.
Episode Summary:
Explore the environmental impact of demolition waste and how one Alberta-based company is tackling this issue by reclaiming valuable wood from buildings before they get demolished. Jay Sanderson, founder of Backroads Reclamation, shares he’s repurposing old-growth wood, reducing waste, and honoring Alberta’s architectural heritage. Discover the unique benefits of reclaimed wood and how it plays a vital role in sustainable development.
Key Topics:
- The environmental impact of demolition waste
- The difference between old-growth reclaimed wood and new timber
- The process and challenges of reclaiming wood from demolished structures
- The historical and environmental value of preserving Alberta’s architectural heritage
- The future of the reclaimed wood industry in Alberta
Guest:
Jay Sanderson, Founder and Owner of Backroads Reclamation
Resources Mentioned:
- Backroads Reclamation’s Website
- Environment and Climate Change Canada's National Waste Characterization Report
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Follow Us:
- Website: Emerald Foundation
- Twitter: @AlbertaEmerald
- Instagram: @AlbertaEmerald
Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, and City of Calgary.
In this episode of What On EARTH Can We Do?, host Bri chats with Pam Goertzen, Executive Director of the Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA), about the critical role of sustainable building practices in Alberta's path to a low-carbon future. With Alberta’s rapid population growth fueling demand for new buildings, Pam discusses how the construction industry can innovate to meet the challenge of building fast, affordable, and low-carbon homes without compromising sustainability. They also explore the economics of green building, the importance of operational efficiency, and the potential for groundbreaking materials like recycled plastic to reshape the way we build.
Join us for an insightful discussion on how Alberta can lead the way in building sustainable, resilient communities while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Topics:
- Alberta's population growth and the demand for new buildings
- The environmental impact of the building sector and green building initiatives
- Challenges and opportunities in sustainable building practices
- Economic considerations for developers and homeowners
- Innovative materials and design strategies to reduce carbon emissions
- The long-term benefits of energy-efficient homes for both the environment and occupants
Guest:
- Pam Goertzen – Executive Director of the Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA)
Resources Mentioned:
- Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA)
- Canada Green Building Council
-
Ecoplast Solutions
-
Alberta's population growth
- Canada's population growth
- Greenhouse gas emissions from buildings
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity with the unique mission of accelerating environmental excellence by identifying and celebrating Alberta’s visionary leaders and by sharing best practices through the power of compelling educational narratives.
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Follow Us:
- Website: Emerald Foundation
- LinkedIn: @AlbertaEmerald
- Instagram: @AlbertaEmerald
- Facebook: @AlbertaEmerald
Thank You to Our Sponsors: A big thank you to our sponsors who make this podcast possible: Capital Power, Government of Alberta, the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Pathways Alliance, City of Edmonton, and City of Calgary.
Join Bri as she explores the innovative Calgary Willow Plantation project with Catalina Nadeau-Bonilla, shedding light on the fascinating intersection of wastewater treatment, biosolids utilization, and environmental sustainability. The conversation delves into the details of the project, its impact on marginal lands, and the myriad benefits it brings to the city of Calgary.
Learn more about The City of Calgary’s Willow Plantation: https://www.calgary.ca/water/programs/biosolids-demonstration-projects.html
The What On EARTH Can We Do? Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the AEF, visit our website, https://emeraldfoundation.ca/, or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
A big thank you to our supporters and sponsors:
Capital Power
Syncrude
Government of Alberta
City of Edmonton
Alberta Beverage Container Recycling Corporation
Want to help keep this podcast going? Donate today! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
In this episode of WOECWD, Bri has an eye-opening conversation with Kelly Rogers from Lloydminster-based EcoPlast Solutions about how they’re revolutionizing the construction industry by building homes from recycled plastic bottles. Join us for an inspiring discussion on the intersection of sustainability and construction, and the limitless potential for a greener, more resilient world.
Learn more about EcoPlast Solutions: https://ecoplast-solutions.com/
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation (AEF), a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the AEF, visit our website, https://emeraldfoundation.ca/, or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
A big thank you to our supporters and sponsors:
Capital Power
Syncrude
Government of Alberta
City of Edmonton
Alberta Beverage Container Recycling Corporation
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
In this episode, Bri delves into the crucial work of the Caribou Patrol program with Stephanie Leonard, the environmental coordinator at the Asenuwiche Winewak Nation (AWN). Discover the inspiring efforts behind protecting and conserving the caribou population in west-central Alberta, from highway patrols to educational outreach. Explore the deep cultural significance of caribou to the AWN and the intricate balance they maintain within the local ecosystem. Learn about the challenges Caribou face in the wild and the vision for a future where caribou thrive, creating a healthier environment for all. Take advantage of this insightful conversation on the interconnectedness of nature, conservation, and cultural heritage. 🦌🌿
Learn more about The Caribou Patrol: https://www.cariboupatrol.ca/
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the Alberta Emerald Foundation check out our website: emeraldfoundation.ca or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
In this episode, we explore the world of plastic waste and how it can be saved from landfills and turned into a valuable resource. Join us as we chat with Corey Saban from ReWaste to discover their unique approach to recycling plastic and learn how they're contributing to a circular economy that's changing how we view plastic. If you've ever wondered about the future of recycling and the possibilities hidden in the plastic items you discard, this episode is a must-listen.
Learn more about [Re] Waste: https://www.rewaste.ca/
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the Alberta Emerald Foundation check out our website: emeraldfoundation.ca or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
In this episode, we delve into Blindman Brewing's incredible journey of pioneering carbon capture technology in the craft beer industry in Canada. Co-founders Kirk Zembal and Hans Doef unpack their six-year endeavour to reduce emissions and save money while brewing delicious beer. Learn how they're making a significant impact on sustainability and how small businesses can follow their lead. Discover the win-win opportunities of environmental responsibility and the future of Blindman Brewing's sustainability initiatives.
Learn more about Blindman Brewing: https://www.blindmanbrewing.com/
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the Alberta Emerald Foundation check out our website: emeraldfoundation.ca or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
In this episode host we sit down with Bradley Peter, Executive Director of the Alberta Lake Management Society (ALMS). Together, we delve into the world of lakes, exploring how this nonprofit has been working to enhance our understanding of Alberta's lakes and their watersheds for over 30 years. We’ll dive into the specifics of their Lake Keepers Program, a citizen science initiative that empowers individuals to collect water quality data in both summer and winter, shedding light on lake health, potential risks, and long-term trends. From tracking nutrient levels to monitoring oxygen in winter lakes, we’ll reveal the fascinating insights and vital contributions that come from this community-based monitoring program.
Learn more about ALMS and the LakeKeepers program: https://alms.ca/
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the Alberta Emerald Foundation head to our website: emeraldfoundation.ca or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
In this episode, we dig deep into the world of tire recycling and its pivotal role in building a more sustainable future. Together with Michael Lobsinger, the Vice President of Operations at EcoFlex Recycled Rubber Solutions, we explore the history of tire recycling, its evolution, and the environmental challenges posed by discarded tires.
Learn more about EcoFlex: https://www.eco-flex.com/
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the Alberta Emerald Foundation head to our website: emeraldfoundation.ca or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
In this episode, we delve into the captivating world of rewilding with Project Forest's Founder and Executive Director, Mike Toffan. Join us as we explore how Project Forest is on a mission to rewild Canada, one forest at a time. Discover their inspiring journey, their impact on biodiversity and climate resilience, and their vision for a greener, more sustainable future. Get ready to be inspired and learn how you can be part of the rewilding revolution!
Learn more about Project Forest: https://projectforest.ca/
The What On EARTH Can We Do Podcast is a program of the Alberta Emerald Foundation, a registered charity that showcases, inspires, and empowers Alberta’s environmental achievements. To learn more about the Alberta Emerald Foundation head to our website: emeraldfoundation.ca or follow us on social media @albertaemerald
Want to help keep this podcast going? Consider donating! https://emeraldfoundation.ca/donate/
Backyard, front yard, or even alleyway gardening is a great way to connect to nature, your community, and help feed your family.
In this episode, Bri chats with Patty Milligan from The Edmonton Urban Farm to discover the environmental benefits of gardening and the different ways to get started!
Learn more about the Edmonton Urban Farm: https://exploreedmonton.com/industry/edmonton-urban-farm
Tell us what you think about the What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast: https://forms.gle/gfZLzgHy8gzMAyPy8
Learn more about the Alberta Emerald Foundation: https://emeraldfoundation.ca/
In 2021 alone, 2.5 billion beverage containers were sold in Alberta. Of that, 2.1 billion were recycled through Alberta's bottle depots.
In this episode, Bri chats with Lori Koebel from ABCRC to learn what happens to our beverage containers after they're recycled and how they can help play a role in the circular economy.
Learn more about ABCRC: https://www.abcrc.com/
Find a bottle depot near you: https://albertadepot.ca/
Over the past century, Alberta's natural spaces have changed drastically. We've converted spaces like grasslands into urban centres, wetlands into agricultural areas, and so much more. And while we need to change natural spaces to meet our society's growing needs, there's often a more sustainable way to do it.
In this episode, Bri chats with Jennifer Janzen and Jana Vamosi to discuss how land use has changed Alberta’s natural areas over the past 100 years, the impact it’s had on the environment, and how we can reduce that impact as our population continues to grow.
Want to learn more about how Alberta's natural spaces are changing? Check out the Alberta Tomorrow Simulator! https://www.simulator.albertatomorrow.ca/
In this episode, Bri is joined by Sarah Janzen, owner of Blenderz Garment Recyclers, to talk about textile waste.
They'll explore where our textile waste problem comes from, its environmental impact, and discuss solutions to the problem!
Learn more about Blenderz
https://www.blenderzgarmentrecyclers.com/
Learn more about textile waste
https://wrwcanada.com/en/get-involved/resources/textiles-themed-resources/textiles-waste-facts
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-08-12/fast-fashion-turning-parts-ghana-into-toxic-landfill/100358702
With rising energy costs and the increasing need for climate action, solar is something that many people are turning toward. But, installing solar in your home can become overwhelming if you don't have the information you need to make the right decisions.
In this episode, Bri sits down with Kai Fahrion and Gursh Bal, Co-CEO's of Zeno Renewables, to learn about:
- The benefits of installing solar on your home
- The average cost of a solar installation in Alberta
- How the installation process works
- And more!
More information about solar in Canada:
https://renewablesassociation.ca/by-the-numbers/
https://renewablesassociation.ca/solar-energy/#:~:text=In%20Canada%2C%20there%20are%20currently,to%20those%20homes%20and%20businesses.
Conservation, it's something you've probably heard of before, but maybe never thought twice about.
Today, Bri chats with Michelle Holland from The Canadian Wildlife Federation to learn about what conservation is, why it's important, and how it's shaping our future.
Cycling is a great way to reduce transportation costs and travel around our cities, but once the snow hits the ground it can be a bit intimidating! In this episode, Bri chats with Jen and Jeremy Tweddell from the Canmore Community Cruisers about the benefits of winter cycling and tips to get started.
What's in this episode?
01:30 - Why did you start winter cycling and how long have you been doing it?
04:14 - More about the Community Cruisers Bike All Winter program
07:33 - What are the benefits of winter cycling?
11:32 - How can winter cycling help us take action against climate change?
16:53 - How to get started with winter cycling
24:44 - Bike handling tips to keep you from falling
29:13 - Using electric bikes in the wintertime
Eco-anxiety is quickly becoming a shared experience for people across the world, especially young people. In this episode of WOECWD, Bri chats with Sasha Adamova from the Alberta Youth Leaders for Environmental Education and Sebastien Rioux from Newo Global Energy about their experiences with eco-anxiety and their advice on how to work through it. What's in this episode? 0:35 - learn more about eco-anxiety 3:00 - Sasha and Sebastien’s background 5:33 - When was the first time you experiences eco-anxiety and what prompted it? 10:57 - How do both of you deal with your climate anxiety and do you have any recommendations for how others can deal with theirs? 20:20 - Do you find that you're able to take your climate anxiety and turn it into action, and if so, what action are you taking?
Who are the individuals across Alberta taking action against climate change and what drives them to do it? What we're chatting about: 02:09 - Get to know Pat Letizia 04:35 - Pat has been a part of environmental granting programs that have dispersed over $11 million dollars to over 734 environmental projects 08:08 - Pat’s advice to new leaders or young leaders 10:43 - How Eco-Growth environmental is turning waste into bio-mass energy (carbon-neutral energy)! 13:40 - Eco-Growth’s motivation behind making environmentalism the core of their business 23:07 - The impact Eco-Growth is having on the environment 35:37 - How can we as individuals know that we are making a difference for the environment? About our guests: Pat Letizia Pat Letizia has worked with https://albertaecotrust.com/ (Alberta Ecotrust Foundation) for 25 of its 30-year history and led the organization as Executive Director and CEO for over 20 of those years.https://emeraldfoundation.ca/aef_awards/pat-letizia/ ( Pat received the Lifetime Achievement award at the 30th Annual Emerald Awards.) https://www.eco-growthenviro.ca/ (EcoGrowth Environmental) Eco-Growth Environmental Inc. is a Calgary-based technology company focused on providing GREEN initiatives and solutions to environmental challenges through the development of innovative and sustainable technology. Support this podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Emerald Award winners https://defendabparks.ca/ (Defend Alberta Parks) & http://lchsecovision.weebly.com/ (Lacombe Composite High School's EcoVision). Together, we chat about how public engagement can influence solutions to problems that affect people’s lives and how we can use our voices to make a change. What we're chatting about: 03:57 - Learning about CPAWS and the Defend Alberta Parks campaign 05:40 - “we have just under 500 provincial parks in AB, we were looking at losing 175 of those, that’s 45%” 06:40 - The early stages of the Defend AB Parks campaign 09:33 - The famous Defend Alberta Parks lawn sign! 12:24 - Did the campaign work?? 15:25 - How to build a successful public engagement campaign 19:00 - Who is EcoVision? 19:55 - What inspires the EcoVision students to become environmental leaders in their community 23:23 - How EcoVision is helping to get other students engaged with the environment About our guests: https://defendabparks.ca/about/ (Defend Alberta Parks) With the help of volunteers and supporters from across Alberta, the goal of Defend Alberta Parks is to ensure the province’s parks remain within the Alberta Parks system and remain protected. With the help of volunteers and supporters from across Alberta, a https://defendabparks.ca/december-update/ (plan to delist 175 parks was reversed), and no parks were removed from the parks system in 2020. Defend Alberta Parks is organized by the Alberta Environmental Network and CPAWS Southern Alberta and Northern Alberta chapters. It is funded by generous donations from Albertans, small businesses, and local non-profit organizations. http://lchsecovision.weebly.com/about-us.html (EcoVision) EcoVision's purpose is to grow student leaders through student-led projects. Everything, EcoVision attempts, needs to enhance: Improving Our Environment - improve our air, water, or land Enhancing Our Education - supplement the learning of individuals Collaborating with Our Community - increase the collaboration and sharing of ideas, skills, and expertise locally, provincially, and globally Other cool stuff: https://emeraldfoundation.ca/elc/ (Get your Emerald Lifestyle Card) and start saving at sustainable businesses across Alberta! Support this podcast
In Canada, https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/efficiency/communities-infrastructure/transportation/idling/4419 (transportation produces 27% of our national emissions), and https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/reduce-emissions.html (homes and buildings produce 13%)... but, there are things we can do to shrink those numbers! In this episode of What On EARTH Can We Do? we chat with The https://craz.ca/ (Calgary Region Airshed Zone) and https://solaralberta.ca/ (Solar Alberta) to learn all about emissions: what they are, why they exist, and what we can do as individuals to reduce them! In this episode: 04:25 - discover how air quality is monitored 11:40 - learn how you can reduce your emissions 17:51 - how does solar reduce emissions? 18:40 - how much does installing solar panels cost? 22:06 - top three tips for people who are looking to install solar 25:17 - five energy conservation methods you may not have considered About our guests: https://craz.ca/about/ (The Calgary Region Airshed Zone (CRAZ)) CRAZ is a non-profit located in Calgary, Alberta. They monitor, analyze, and provide information on air quality and develop strategies to manage air quality issues within the Calgary Regional Airshed Zone. https://solaralberta.ca/ (Solar Alberta) Solar Alberta is a non-profit educational organization located in Edmonton, Alberta. They provide free educational events, training and classes, exhibits, school presentations, public demonstrations, consulting services, and media appearances. Other cool stuff: https://emeraldfoundation.ca/elc/ (Get your Emerald Lifestyle Card) and start saving at sustainable businesses across Alberta! Support this podcast
"Nîpîy, which is water in Cree, means life… where there is water, there is life” - Katherine Swampy, Band Councilor, Samson Cree Nation In this episode of What On EARTH Can We Do? we're chatting with the Emerald Award-Winning Vermilion River Watershed Alliance & Pigeon Lake Watershed Association to learn all about watersheds and why they're so important! -- In this episode: 02:05 - “A watershed is basically a big area of land that drains water to a single point and that point is a body of water” 04:39 - “stewardship is basically taking ownership for where you live, it’s taking ownership of the environment around you and taking care of it and it’s incredibly important for providing something for the future” 12:42 - What on earth can we do as everyday people to protect our watersheds? About our guests: https://vrwa.ca/ (Vermilion River Watershed Alliance) The Vermilion River Watershed Alliance is a local nonprofit group formed to revive the watershed, which is part of the North Saskatchewan River watershed in Alberta. Through their efforts, they work to improve water quality, manage flooding, reduce erosion, retain soil and moisture content, and protect local wildlife. https://www.plwa.ca/ (Pigeon Lake Watershed Association) Pigeon Lake Watershed Association (PLWA) is a charitable, not-for-profit environmental advocacy group made up of people who live, work and play in Pigeon Lake and its watershed. Their mission is to enhance, preserve and protect Pigeon Lake and its watershed as a healthy and environmentally sustainable ecosystem for current and future generations. Important links: Purchase your Emerald Lifestyle Card and get discounts at sustainable businesses across Alberta - https://emeraldfoundation.ca/elc/ (https://emeraldfoundation.ca/elc/) Support this podcast
In this episode: "Regenerative agriculture is a decision to stop with the extraction ... and all about helping the earth thrive" (08:26) "When you support local farmers you're a part of an incredibly hopeful journey" (13:28) "[Alberta] has some of the last left healthy native fescue grasses and it's our responsibility to preserve them" (18:49) About our guests: YYC Growers & Distributors YYC Growers is a social enterprise working to distribute wealth in the area of food production and distribution. https://yycgrowers.com/ (Learn more about their amazing work)! Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation Glenbow Ranch protects 3200 acres of native fescue grasslands and is an active cattle ranch. The Park is home to creatures big and small from moose to bumblebees and spans 10 km of the Bow River. https://grpf.ca/ (Learn more about the park)! Important links: Purchase your Emerald Lifestyle Card and get discounts at sustainable businesses across Alberta - https://emeraldfoundation.ca/elc/ (https://emeraldfoundation.ca/elc/) Are you from Calgary? Consider purchasing a YYC Growers harvest box and get connected to your local food system - https://yycgrowers.com/yyc-growers-how-it-works/ (https://yycgrowers.com/yyc-growers-how-it-works/) Visiting Glenbow Ranch or live nearby? Check out their programs - https://grpf.ca/programs/ (https://grpf.ca/programs/) Support this podcast
About 2.8 million tonnes of plastic waste ends up in Canadian landfills every year, which is the equivalent of the weight of 24 CN towers! In this episode, we sit down with Jade Janzen from https://www.liveswithlessplastic.ca/ (Lives with Less Plastic) and Robert Herritt from https://styrogo.com/ (StyroGo) to chat about plastic pollution and what they're doing about it. And, as always, we'll get some tips on how we can reduce plastic consumption in our own lives! Support this podcast
Making your home more energy-efficient and sustainable doesn't have to be hard! In this live episode of What On EARTH Can We Do? we sit down with green building technology experts Melanie Ross and Peter Graul to find out what green building technologies are and how we can use them to make our homes greener. Support this podcast