Brittanie Dabney, an environmental scientist and PhD candidate shares her passion for studying harmful chemicals in our environment, focusing on microplastics and PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals." She explains the alarming extent of their presence, from our clothing to our drinking water, and the potential long-term health implications they pose. Brittanie also sheds light on the challenges scientists face in studying these emerging contaminants due to the limited knowledge and the rapid pace of product development. Despite these challenges, Brittanie highlights her successes in research and community education, emphasizing the importance of empowering individuals with knowledge to make informed choices and advocate for change. She shares how her research has contributed to policy discussions and legal proceedings, demonstrating the real-world impact of scientific work.

Beyond research, Brittanie has founded Ecosphere Organics, a venture that transforms food waste into valuable raw materials for various industries. This innovative solution not only tackles the issue of waste but also offers sustainable alternatives to harmful plastics and chemicals.

Episode in a glance

- Brittanie's Renewed Focus on Environmental Toxicology
- Why Microplastics and PFAS Are Pressing Concerns
- Challenges of Studying Emerging Contaminants
- Successes in Research and Community Education
- Impact of Knowledge on Personal Choices
- Contributions to Legislation and Policy Discussions
- Hopes for Quick Change in Product Regulation
- Ecosphere Organics: Transforming Food Waste into Raw Materials
- Ideal Customers and Future Goals of Ecosphere Organics
- Resources for Learning About Environmental Contaminants
- Connecting with Brittanie and Supporting Ecosphere Organics

About Brittanie Dabney

Brittanie Dabney is a passionate environmental scientist dedicated to protecting water quality. With over 10 years of experience in environmental toxicology research, she is currently pursuing her PhD in biology and urban sustainability. Brittanie's research combines lab work with field experiments to understand how contaminants impact aquatic ecosystems. She is also the founder of Ecosphere Organics, a startup focused on creating sustainable solutions for the food waste industry.

Connect with Brittanie Dabney and her startup Ecosphere Organics

Portfolio Website → http://brittaniedabney.com/
Startup Website → https://ecosphereorganics.com/
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justdabney/
Linkedin → https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittaniedabney/
X/Twitter → https://x.com/TheRealBDabney

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Have you ever wondered how the chemicals in our environment impact our health and ecosystems? Meet Brittanie Dabney, an environmental scientist dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of contaminants in our waterways and inspiring the next generation of Green Champions.

Brittanie Dabney's journey as an environmental scientist began in the heart of Detroit, where she witnessed the stark contrast between urban pollution and the natural beauty of camping trips with her family. This early exposure to environmental disparities fueled her passion for understanding the effects of contaminants on living organisms.

Today, Brittanie is a PhD candidate in biology and urban sustainability, focusing her research on the critical issue of PFAS and microplastics in our water supply. Her work takes her from the lab to the field, conducting experiments to understand how contaminants behave and impact aquatic life. She's also passionate about bridging the gap between science and the public, inspiring young people to explore the diverse career paths within environmental science.

Episode in a glance

- Brittanie's Early Inspirations Growing Up in Detroit
- Her Academic Journey from Marine to Freshwater Biology
- Balancing Field Research and Lab Work
- What is Environmental Toxicology?
- Why Environmental Toxicology is So Important
- How Research Can Be Applied to Improve Regulations and Practices
- What the General Public Can Do to Make a Positive Impact
- The Importance of Representation and Diversity in Environmental Science
- How to Connect with Brittanie and Support Her Work

About Brittanie Dabney

Brittanie Dabney is a passionate environmental scientist dedicated to protecting water quality. With over 10 years of experience in environmental toxicology research, she is currently pursuing her PhD in biology and urban sustainability. Brittanie's research combines lab work with field experiments to understand how contaminants impact aquatic ecosystems. She is also the founder of Ecosphere Organics, a startup focused on creating sustainable solutions for the food waste industry.

Connect with Brittanie Dabney and her startup Ecosphere Organics

Portfolio Website → http://brittaniedabney.com/
Startup Website → https://ecosphereorganics.com/
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justdabney/
Linkedin → https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittaniedabney/
X/Twitter → https://x.com/TheRealBDabney

Send us a message!

Columbus Micro Systems, a Columbus-based company with a 36-year history, is more than just an IT hardware and services provider. They've carved a unique niche by actively championing sustainability within the tech industry. They take a comprehensive approach to IT recycling, going beyond simply collecting old electronics. Their commitment to data security is unwavering, ensuring that sensitive information is properly destroyed before devices are refurbished or repurposed. This dedication extends to their carefully chosen downstream partners, ensuring that materials are handled responsibly throughout the entire recycling process.

Columbus Micro Systems is deeply invested in making technology accessible to those who need it most. By providing refurbished computers at affordable prices, they are breaking down barriers to digital inclusion and ensuring that everyone has access to the tools they need to thrive in today's digital world. Their commitment to sustainability, coupled with their dedication to local communities, makes Columbus Micro Systems a true leader in responsible tech practices.

Episode in a glance

- The Evolution of Columbus Micro Systems
- Is the IT Recycling World Talked About Enough?
- IT Recycling, Managed Services, and IT Hardware
- The 'Break/Fix' Problem
- Refurbished Equipment and Accessibility
- The Issue of Hazardous Batteries
- R2 Certification
- Unresponsible Recycling
- The Future of Columbus Micro Systems

About Zagrous Kawarizadeh

Zagrous Kawarizadeh is the President of Columbus Micro Systems, a company specializing in IT hardware, recycling, and managed services. He is passionate about promoting responsible IT recycling and data security, ensuring that electronic waste is handled ethically and sustainably.

Connect with Zagrous Kawarizadeh & Columbus Micro Systems

→ columbusmicro.com

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Zagrous Kawarizadeh is the president of Columbus Micro Systems, a family business with a unique perspective on sustainability. Founded in 1988, the company has evolved from building computers to becoming a leader in IT recycling. Zag brings a passion for solving problems and a deep understanding of data security to his role. Columbus Micro Systems goes beyond just recycling electronics - they ensure data security, provide refurbished computers to individuals, and work to keep the recycling process local. They are committed to providing responsible disposal options for businesses and individuals, while also working to reduce the environmental impact of the ever-growing tech industry.

Episode in a glance

- The Story of Columbus Micro Systems
- Transition from Computer Building to IT Recycling
- Importance of R2 Certification for IT Recycling
- Handling Materials from Large Clients
- Common Items People Bring in for IT Recycling
- The Two Key Questions About Recycling: Data and Reusability
- Data Privacy and Responsible Data Destruction
- What Happens to Devices That Can't Be Reused
- Responsible Downstream Partners and Keeping Recycling Local
- Zagrous's Personal Passion for IT Recycling

About Zagrous Kawarizadeh

Zagrous Kawarizadeh is the President of Columbus Micro Systems, a company specializing in IT hardware, recycling, and managed services. He is passionate about promoting responsible IT recycling and data security, ensuring that electronic waste is handled ethically and sustainably.

Connect with Zagrous Kawarizadeh & Columbus Micro Systems

→ columbusmicro.com

Send us a message!

SWACO, the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio led by Jane Boehm, is leading the charge to reduce food waste in the region. Through the Central Ohio Food Waste Initiative, they've brought together a diverse group of partners, including businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies, to work toward eliminating food waste. The initiative focuses on three key areas: prevention, donation, and composting.

One of the program's notable successes is the Columbus Food Rescue, which redistributes over a million pounds of food annually, preventing it from going to waste and helping those in need. SWACO is also working to make it easier and more affordable for businesses to divert food waste, which makes up a significant portion of the landfill. They are working on pilot programs, incentive programs, and technical assistance programs to encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices. SWACO is committed to making Central Ohio a leader in food waste reduction. They are constantly developing new programs and resources to help residents, businesses, and communities play an active role in making a difference.

Episode in a glance

- Why Food Waste is Such a Huge Problem
- Misconceptions About How Food Waste Breaks Dow
- Food Waste Statistics in Landfill Composition
- The Central Ohio Food Waste Action Plan
- The Food Waste Drop-Off Program
- Success story of Columbus Food Rescue
- The Intersection of Food Waste and Hunger
- Challenges in Diverting Food Waste
- Comparison of Food Waste Reduction Programs
- The Future of the Food Waste Action Plan

About Jane Boehm

Jane Boehm is the Food Waste Programs Administrator at SWACO, the solid waste authority of Central Ohio. She's a passionate advocate for sustainable food systems and a key driver in reducing food waste across the region. Jane combines her deep understanding of agriculture and environmental science with her ability to engage diverse stakeholders to create lasting change. She's dedicated to building a community that values reducing waste and maximizing the use of food resources, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a healthier planet.

Connect with Jane Boehm & SWACO

• SWACO website & Landfill Tour Sign-Up: https://www.swaco.org/
• Save More Than Food Campaign website: https://savemorethanfood.org/
• Jane Boehm's email: foodwaste@swaco.org

Send us a message!

Jane Boehm is a passionate advocate for reducing food waste in Central Ohio. As the Food Waste Programs Administrator at SWACO, she leads the Central Ohio Food Waste Initiative, a collaboration of businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies working together to eliminate wasted food. Jane brings a wealth of experience from her work on the Zero Waste Island Initiative, as well as her background in environmental studies and agro ecology. Her commitment to working with diverse stakeholders to build consensus and find practical solutions is making a real difference in reducing food waste across the community.

Episode in a glance

- Jane's Ukrainian Upbringing and Early Interest in Agriculture
- The Zero Waste Island Initiative on Governor's Island
- From Awareness Building to Solution-Oriented Work
- Food Scraps Make Up 15% of the Landfill
- SWACO's Unique Role as a Solid Waste District
- Consistency in Handling Food Waste
- The Pursuit of Agro Ecology
- Empowering People to Reduce Food Waste
- Permaculture vs Regenerative Agriculture

About Jane Boehm

Jane Boehm is the Food Waste Programs Administrator at SWACO, the solid waste authority of Central Ohio. She's a passionate advocate for sustainable food systems and a key driver in reducing food waste across the region. Jane combines her deep understanding of agriculture and environmental science with her ability to engage diverse stakeholders to create lasting change. She's dedicated to building a community that values reducing waste and maximizing the use of food resources, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a healthier planet.

Connect with Jane Boehm & SWACO

• SWACO website & Landfill Tour Sign-Up: https://www.swaco.org/
• Save More Than Food Campaign website: https://savemorethanfood.org/
• Jane Boehm's email: foodwaste@swaco.org

Send us a message!

How is Toyota, a global automotive giant, tackling water scarcity, championing biodiversity, and redefining sustainability in manufacturing?

Toyota's sustainability journey has evolved over 30 years, moving from a focus on waste reduction and efficiency to a comprehensive approach encompassing carbon neutrality, water conservation, biodiversity, and responsible materials. They prioritize a diverse portfolio of vehicle options, like hybrids and fuel cell vehicles, to meet diverse needs while minimizing environmental impact. Toyota actively collaborates with other industry players, shares knowledge, and strives for transparency, recognizing that sustainability is a collective effort. Their commitment to education and continuous improvement is evident in initiatives like 100% water recycling at their Baja plant and ongoing research into less toxic materials.

Episode in a glance

- Why environmental sustainability is crucial for the automotive industry
- Toyota's evolution towards a holistic sustainability approach
- The importance of regeneration and positive impacts on communities
- Success stories in water conservation and recycling
- Challenges and strategies for large corporations to embrace sustainability
- Toyota's commitment to material innovation and responsible chemistry

About Kevin Butt

Kevin is the Regional Environmental Sustainability Director at Toyota. He is responsible for the development of Environmental Sustainability Programs in addition to Regulatory and Legislative development for all of Toyota’s North American operations. He also serves on several boards including the National Wildlife Habitat Council, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation, World Wildlife Fund National Council, North American Great Plains Advisory Board and the Yellowstone Park Foundation Board.

The 2023 North American Environmental Sustainability Report → https://www.toyota.com/content/dam/tusa/environmentreport/downloads/2023NAER_Final.pdf

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Kevin Butt is the Regional Environmental Sustainability Director at Toyota North America. Kevin shares his remarkable journey from a curious young mind exploring the woods to becoming a leading advocate for environmental sustainability in the automotive sector. Kevin talks about how his experiences working in a steel mill and his unwavering passion for the environment led him to champion sustainability at Toyota for over 30 years. Kevin provides a candid look at the evolving landscape of sustainability, highlighting Toyota's commitment to responsible environmental stewardship. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration across industries and shares fascinating stories of innovative projects, including the repurposing of hybrid batteries for off-grid power generation at Yellowstone National Park. Gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between carbon, materials, water, and biodiversity, and learn how Toyota addresses these critical pillars of sustainability.

Episode in a glance

- Kevin's Passion for Nature and Environmental Protection
- From Coal Research to Steel Mills to Toyota
- Evolution of Sustainability at Toyota Over Three Decades
- Carbon, Materials, Water, and Biodiversity
- Collaboration in the Automotive Industry
- The Importance of Water Conservation and Biodiversity
- Innovation in Yellowstone National Park
- Toyota's Pollinator Habitat Initiative
- Common-Sense Approaches to Environmental Issues

About Kevin Butt

Kevin is the Regional Environmental Sustainability Director at Toyota. He is responsible for the development of Environmental Sustainability Programs in addition to Regulatory and Legislative development for all of Toyota’s North American operations. He also serves on several boards including the National Wildlife Habitat Council, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation, World Wildlife Fund National Council, North American Great Plains Advisory Board and the Yellowstone Park Foundation Board.

Send us a message!