What On EARTH Can We Do?

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 wasteHow collaboration between local governments, haulers, and processors made it possibleThe impressive results — including nearly 90,000 kg of organics divertedWhat this means for Alberta’s circular economy and the future of food waste solutionsLearn more about The Circular Innovation Council’s Commercial Waste Diversion PilotThe 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 AEFThank 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 CalgaryDisclaimer: 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 WasteFood insecurity among Canadian families (StatsCan)The Seed (Guelph, ON)Echo Food Rescue (Lacombe, AB)Circular Innovation CouncilThe 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 AEFThank 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 CalgaryDisclaimer: 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 HarvestThe Avoidable Crisis of Food Waste (2024)National Zero Waste CouncilCircular Innovation CouncilThe 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 AEFThank 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 CalgaryDisclaimer: 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 Topics01:00 - The origins of ARMA and Alberta's early leadership in recycling12:06 - Milestones in environmental impact15:33 - Innovations in recycling, such as renewable energy components and AI-powered sorting systems22:58 - Alberta’s ongoing role as a national leader in sustainable waste managementGuestEd GugenheimerChief Executive Officer, Alberta Recycling Management AuthorityResources MentionedLearn more about ARMA and its programs: albertarecycling.caThe 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 FoundationTwitter: @AlbertaEmeraldInstagram: @AlbertaEmeraldThank 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 CalgaryDisclaimer: 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 Topics01:24 - Indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship and climate action04:16 - Alberta-based examples of indigenous-led environmental stewardship08:06 - The role of community in successful environmental initiatives11:37 - Strategies for building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities16:18 - Empowering Indigenous youth to become leaders in environmental stewardshipGuestMackenzie BrownMackenzie 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 KimmererMother Earth Plants for Health & Beauty: Indigenous Plants, Traditions, and Recipes by Carrie ArmstrongPodcasts:Unreserved (CBC)The Secret Life of Canada (CBC)Organizations:Future AncestorsIndigenous Youth RootsWe MatterThe 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 FoundationTwitter: @AlbertaEmeraldInstagram: @AlbertaEmeraldThank 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 CalgaryDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by...

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 SolutionsResources Mentioned:170,000 abandoned oil wells in the provinceEnvironmental risks of orphan wellsEstimated cost to clean up Alberta’s orphan wellsOrphan Well AssociationMunicipal Climate Change Action CentreSt. Mary River Irrigation DistrictRenuWell Energy SolutionsThe 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 FoundationTwitter: @AlbertaEmeraldInstagram: @AlbertaEmeraldThank 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 CalgaryDisclaimer: 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 futureGuest:Rory Wheat - Vice President of Development at Varme EnergyResources Mentioned:Varme Energy websiteIndustrial Heartland ProjectThe 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 FoundationTwitter: @AlbertaEmeraldInstagram: @AlbertaEmeraldThank 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 wildlifeThe adaptability of coyotes in urban settingsCommon challenges arising from human-coyote interactionsEffective strategies and management techniques for reducing conflicts with coyotesThe role of public education in promoting coexistenceGuest:Dr. Colleen Cassady St. Clair, Biological Sciences Professor at the University of AlbertaResources Mentioned:87.7% of Albertans reside in ‘Urban Municipalities’, including cities, towns, villages, summer villages, and specialized municipalitiesCalgary and Edmonton’s changing landscapesThe negative effects of land use changes on wildlifeEdmonton Urban Coyote Project websiteThe Urban Wildlife Information NetworkHow to avoid and prevent conflict with coyotesThe 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 FoundationTwitter: @AlbertaEmeraldInstagram: @AlbertaEmeraldThank 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 wasteThe difference between old-growth reclaimed wood and new timberThe process and challenges of reclaiming wood from demolished structuresThe historical and environmental value of preserving Alberta’s architectural heritageThe future of the reclaimed wood industry in AlbertaGuest:Jay Sanderson, Founder and Owner of Backroads ReclamationResources Mentioned:Backroads Reclamation’s WebsiteEnvironment and Climate Change Canada's National Waste Characterization ReportThe 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 FoundationTwitter: @AlbertaEmeraldInstagram: @AlbertaEmeraldThank 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 buildingsThe environmental impact of the building sector and green building initiativesChallenges and opportunities in sustainable building practicesEconomic considerations for developers and homeownersInnovative materials and design strategies to reduce carbon emissionsThe long-term benefits of energy-efficient homes for both the environment and occupantsGuest:Pam Goertzen – Executive Director of the Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA)Resources Mentioned:Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA)Canada Green Building CouncilEcoplast SolutionsAlberta's population growthCanada's population growthGreenhouse gas emissions from buildingsThe 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 FoundationLinkedIn: @AlbertaEmeraldInstagram: @AlbertaEmeraldFacebook: @AlbertaEmeraldThank 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.htmlThe 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 @albertaemeraldA big thank you to our supporters and sponsors:Capital PowerSyncrudeGovernment of AlbertaCity of EdmontonAlberta Beverage Container Recycling CorporationWant 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 @albertaemeraldA big thank you to our supporters and sponsors:Capital PowerSyncrudeGovernment of AlbertaCity of EdmontonAlberta Beverage Container Recycling CorporationWant 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 @albertaemeraldWant 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 @albertaemeraldWant 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 @albertaemeraldWant 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 @albertaemeraldWant 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 @albertaemeraldWant 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 @albertaemeraldWant 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-farmTell us what you think about the What On EARTH Can We Do? podcast: https://forms.gle/gfZLzgHy8gzMAyPy8Learn 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/