This Green Earth

Philosophy professor Christopher Preston reveals the mysteries and challenges at the heart of endangered animal population resurgences. (2:21) Then Jonny Vasic with Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment talks about a legal settlement aiming to reduce the burden of vehicle pollution across the country. (15:30) Plus, Bob Deans, director for strategic engagement in the Natural Resources Defense Council, breaks down ConocoPhillips’ massive Willow Project. (26:27)

UCLA scientist and affiliate with NASA’s jet propulsion laboratory, Bin Guan, discusses the new ranking system assigned to atmospheric rivers that is similar to hurricane rankings. (2:16) Brian Steed from Utah State University’s Institute for Land, Water and Air talks about its engagement with policy makers, current priorities and the institute’s plans moving forward. (23:59)

Dan Egan discusses his book, "The Devil's Element: Phosphorus and a World Out of Balance." It details the perilous but little-known environmental issues of our time.Then, Douglas Tallamy shares "The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees." In this book, Tallamy explains why the mighty oak tree is one of the most import species of the planet kingdom.

Chris Bowers, professor of chemistry at Ohio Northern University and law professor David Raack share their expertise on the East Palestine train derailment in Ohio and its chemical consequences.Then, Jeff Hatten, professor of forest soils at Oregon State, talks about carbon storage in soil. Soil is the Earth’s second-biggest carbon storage locker after the ocean. This research shows that moisture in the soil is the key to how well the soil carbon warehouse works.

Australian biologist and author Danielle Clode delves into the extraordinary world of the koala.  (01:14) Then Dr. John Francis, a.k.a. the “Planetwalker,” discusses why he gave up vehicles to walk instead and created his nonprofit environmental awareness organization. (23:36)

The global surface temperature for 2022 was the sixth highest since record keeping began in 1880, according to NOAA scientists. Jake Fortune dives into the reasons behind it and possible consequences of such warm temperatures. (01:41) Meisei Gonzales of HEAL Utah talks about the climate concerns the Utah State Legislature is discussing during the 2023 session. (23:38)

University of Massachusetts geosciences professor Julie Brigham-Grette researches glacial geology and Arctic palioenvironments. (01:51) Then, Asha Sharma, organizing committee-director of the Pesticide Action Network North America, explains a new report showing an expected increase in pesticide usage as climate change impacts pest pressures and problems. She shares the findings and what this could mean for the planet. (24:27)

First, award-winning author Leila Philip shares her new book, "Beaverland: How One Weird Rodent Made America." (01:58) Then, Zach Frankel breaks down a new bill unveiled last week that would establish unprecedented guidelines for how Utah should respond to the shrinking Great Salt Lake. (27:37)

Emmy-nominated Netflix stars, podcasters and New York Times–bestselling authors Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, a.k.a The Minimalists. Then learn about the world’s first 100% bio-based 3D-printed home. This climate-friendly response to the nation’s affordable housing crisis could be a game changer.

ProPublica investigative reporter Mark Olalde shares how, for the first time, ProPublica has cataloged cleanup efforts at more than 50 sites where uranium was processed to fuel the nation’s nuclear arsenal. (01:33) Migratory Game Bird Program Coordinator at the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Blair Stringham joins the show. (24:54)