From Construction to Cultivation: Ben Weiss on Hydromulch, Sustainability, and the Future of Agriculture
Release Date: 01/09/2025
From Washington to China: Lessons in Strawberry Production and Sustainable Ag with Dr. Carol Miles
Mulch Matters
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we are joined by Dr. Carol Miles from Washington State University, for a compelling conversation about her recent trip to China to attend the International Strawberry Symposium. Our discussion offers a fascinating window into the contrasts and connections between Chinese and U.S. agricultural practices, particularly around strawberry production and plastic mulch use. Carol reflects on the incredible technological leap she observed in Chinese greenhouses, where high-tech, hydroponic tabletop systems are now used in showcase facilities. But she also shares her...
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Engineering a Cleaner Future: Recycling Plasticulture with Andros Engineering
Mulch Matters
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we sit down with Ben Andros, President of Andros Engineering, to explore how innovative machinery and thoughtful design are transforming the way we manage plasticulture in agriculture. From recycling drip tape and mulch film to collaborating with researchers on sustainable solutions, Ben shares the journey of tackling one of ag's biggest waste challenges—with humor, heart, and high-tech tools. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at ag-tech innovation, real-world challenges in plastic recycling, and why teamwork across sectors is key to building a cleaner...
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Digging Deep: Microplastics, Soil Health, and Sustainable Agriculture with Nayab Gull
Mulch Matters
In this insightful episode of our podcast, we welcome Nayab Gull, a Ph.D. student at Washington State University, to discuss the complex and critical topic of microplastics in agricultural soils. From her unexpected journey into agriculture to her cutting-edge research on microplastics and soil health, Nayab shares both personal stories and professional insights. We explore how microplastics impact soil structure, water retention, microbial life, and even plant root development. Nayab also sheds light on the potential risks microplastics pose to food safety and human health, emphasizing the...
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Transforming Plastic Waste: Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture with Kevin DeWhitt
Mulch Matters
In this episode we have an engaging conversation with Kevin DeWhitt, the founder of PDO Technology, about the pressing issue of plastic waste management in agriculture. As the world grapples with plastic pollution, innovative solutions are needed to tackle this environmental challenge. Kevin brings his expertise in pyrolysis, a cutting-edge process that breaks down plastic mulch waste and repurposes it into valuable resources. This process not only reduces landfill dependency but also supports a circular economy, promoting sustainability in agricultural practices. During our discussion,...
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Plastic Pollution in Agriculture: Challenges, Solutions, and the Global Impact with Dr. Karen Mancl
Mulch Matters
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we welcome Dr. Karen Mancl, a professor at Ohio State University and a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center. Dr. Mancl shares her expertise in plastic pollution, sustainability, and international environmental policy, offering a deep dive into how plastic is used in agriculture—particularly in China and the United States—and the environmental consequences that follow. We explore the evolution of plastic mulch use, the growing concern over microplastics in soil, and innovative strategies to mitigate plastic waste in farming. Dr. Mancl also discusses the role...
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From Construction to Cultivation: Ben Weiss on Hydromulch, Sustainability, and the Future of Agriculture
Mulch Matters
In this episode of the Mulch Matters Podcast, we welcome Ben Weiss, a graduate student at Washington State University, to share his journey from construction to agriculture and his passion for sustainable practices. Ben dives into his innovative research on hydromulch, a biodegradable, paper-based mulch technology designed for organic growers. We explore how hydromulch works, its potential alternative option to plastic mulch, and the challenges of adopting this emerging technology on a commercial scale. Ben also shares insights into the environmental impact of PFAS (“forever chemicals”),...
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Breaking down biodegradable mulches: insights with Dr. Carol Miles
Mulch Matters
In this episode of the Mulch Matters podcast, we welcome back Dr. Carol Miles, a professor and vegetable crop specialist at Washington State University. Join us as we delve into her two decades of research on soil biodegradable plastic mulches (BDMs) and their role in modern and organic agriculture. Dr. Miles shares insights into the challenges of plastic waste in agriculture, the science behind biodegradation, and the criteria set by the National Organic Program (NOP). She also discusses the potential benefits of BDMs for weed control, water conservation, and waste reduction, while...
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Mulch matters: exploring the impact of plastic (PE) and biodegradable (BDM) mulches in agriculture
Mulch Matters
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we are joined by Dr. Lisa DeVetter, Associate Professor in the Department of Horticulture at Washington State University and our project director. We dive into the fascinating world of mulch and its significant impact on agriculture and the environment. Dr. DeVetter shares insights into the history, benefits, and global significance of polyethylene (PE) plastic mulch, especially in strawberry production, and addresses the growing concerns surrounding plastic waste. We explore innovative alternatives like biodegradable mulches (BDMs) and discuss their...
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Digging deeper: soil science, biodegradable mulches, and environmental sustainability with Markus Flury
Mulch Matters
In this enlightening episode, we welcome back Markus Flury, a leading expert in soil science with a deep commitment to environmental sustainability. Markus, co-director of the end-of-life management of plastic mulch project, shares his journey into soil science and discusses the critical role of soil health in agriculture. We explore his research on biodegradable mulches (BDMs) and their impact on soil ecosystems, including how these innovative materials break down and what that means for the future of sustainable farming. From the intricacies of microbial communities to the long-term...
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Sustainability at the heart of berries: a Driscoll's perspective
Mulch Matters
In this episode of the Mulch Matters Podcast, we dive into the world of sustainable agriculture with James duBois, Senior Manager of Environmental Sustainability at Driscoll’s. With over 15 years of experience in water stewardship and environmental risk management, James shares invaluable insights on reducing field plastics and improving sustainability practices in berry production. Learn about Driscoll’s journey as a fifth-generation family-owned company, their commitment to environmental stewardship, and the innovative approaches they’re taking to minimize the impact of field...
info_outlineIn this episode of the Mulch Matters Podcast, we welcome Ben Weiss, a graduate student at Washington State University, to share his journey from construction to agriculture and his passion for sustainable practices. Ben dives into his innovative research on hydromulch, a biodegradable, paper-based mulch technology designed for organic growers.
We explore how hydromulch works, its potential alternative option to plastic mulch, and the challenges of adopting this emerging technology on a commercial scale. Ben also shares insights into the environmental impact of PFAS (“forever chemicals”), the hurdles of biodegradable mulch adoption in organic farming, and the critical role of consumer preferences in shaping sustainable agricultural practices.
Note: intro and outro music credit to Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-motivational-ident-main-9923/