Mulch Matters
We are here to update you on the latest research about BDM and recycling options PE mulch as well as help you to answer any questions you might have. In each episode, we’ll dive into the latest research, trends, news, and insights on why mulch matters and how we can improve plastic mulch end-of-life options. We'll also branch out and discuss other plastics as well as talk to researchers, experts, and practitioners in the field who will share their insights and experiences on how to use mulch effectively in different settings.
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Sustainability at the heart of berries: a Driscoll's perspective
09/01/2024
Sustainability at the heart of berries: a Driscoll's perspective
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 plastics. From high tunnels to drip tapes, James discusses the various applications of field plastics in berry production and the strides Driscoll’s is making towards their ambitious recycling goals. Please note that since the recording of this podcast in Fall 2023, Driscoll’s has made significant progress toward their goal of recycling 100% of field plastics. Starting with zero acres in 2022, Driscoll’s nurseries and growers have already recycled nearly 8,000 acres of fumigation and bed mulch plastic, including 3,000 acres of bed mulch in 2024 alone. This progress marks a significant milestone for the industry and brings Driscoll’s one step closer to meeting their 2025 recycling goals. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about the challenges and breakthroughs in making berry farming more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Tune in to hear how Driscoll’s is leading the way in reducing plastic waste and shaping the future of agriculture. Note: intro and outro music credit to Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-motivational-ident-main-9923/
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Exploring the California Strawberry Industry with Hillary Thomas
08/01/2024
Exploring the California Strawberry Industry with Hillary Thomas
Today, we're thrilled to have Hillary Thomas, the Research and Technical Director at Naturipe Berry Growers, join us. Hillary shares her incredible journey from academia to the heart of the berry industry, providing insights into the challenges and innovations in California's strawberry production. In this episode, Hillary discusses her role at Naturipe, the complexities of strawberry farming, and the evolution of sustainable practices in the industry. She sheds light on the impact of regulatory changes, the importance of plastic mulch, and the promising future of biodegradable alternatives. Tune in to hear about the innovative efforts of the California strawberry industry, the collaborative initiatives to address environmental concerns, and Hillary's personal favorite way to enjoy strawberries. Whether you're interested in agriculture, sustainability, or just love strawberries, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration. Join us for an enlightening conversation that highlights the dedication and expertise behind the delicious strawberries we all enjoy. Don't miss it! Note: intro and outro music credit to from
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Exploring hydromulch with Dr. Dilpreet Bajwa: benefits and applications in organic farming
07/01/2024
Exploring hydromulch with Dr. Dilpreet Bajwa: benefits and applications in organic farming
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Dilpreet Bajwa, Professor and Head of the Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Department at Montana State University. Dr. Bajwa shares his fascinating journey from growing up on a farm to leading innovative research in biomaterials and bioproducts, particularly hydromulch. He explains hydromulch, its benefits, and its applications in sustainable and organic agriculture. Learn how hydromulch can help suppress weeds, reduce evaporation, maintain soil temperature, and improve soil fertility—all while being environmentally friendly. Dr. Bajwa also discusses the potential for hydromulch to be used in organic farming and how it compares to traditional plastic mulches. If you're curious about sustainable agricultural practices or looking for ways to improve your gardening techniques, this episode is packed with valuable insights! Listen now to discover more about the innovative world of hydromulch and its impact on agriculture. Note: intro and outro music credit to from
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From weeds to wisdom: exploring hydromulch with Greta Gramig
06/01/2024
From weeds to wisdom: exploring hydromulch with Greta Gramig
In today's episode, we sit down with Dr. Greta Gramig, an expert in plant science and sustainable agriculture from North Dakota State University. Greta shares her insights on biodegradable mulches and their transformative potential in organic farming. Drawing from her academic background and hands-on gardening experiences, she discusses the challenges and innovations in mulching techniques that aim to revolutionize environmental management in agriculture. Tune in to explore how Greta's work with biodegradable materials, particularly hydromulches, could lead to significant advancements in sustainable farming practices. Note: intro and outro music credit to from
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From source to solution: Michael Vincent on turning plastic waste into products.
05/01/2024
From source to solution: Michael Vincent on turning plastic waste into products.
In this episode we're excited to have Michael Vincent, the CEO and President of OPT USA, a subsidiary of Ocean Plastic Technologies. With a deep passion for both the environment and innovative solutions, Michael will share his insights into groundbreaking approaches for recycling plastics within the agricultural sector. His experience spans from preventing ocean plastic pollution to implementing on-site recycling systems that convert agricultural waste into valuable resources directly at the source. Join us as we delve into how these technologies not only aid in cleaning and preserving our environment but also boost local economies by creating jobs and enhancing the sustainability of communities worldwide. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on the global impact of these initiatives and the future of waste management practices. Note: intro and outro music credit to from
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Sustainable solutions with compostable mulch films: a conversation with Dan Martens, VP of Novamont North America
04/01/2024
Sustainable solutions with compostable mulch films: a conversation with Dan Martens, VP of Novamont North America
In this podcast episode, you will hear from Dan Martens, the Vice President of Novamont North America, discussing sustainable solutions for farming, particularly focusing on compostable mulch films. Dan shares his journey into the industry and explains Novamont's mission to provide environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastics. He highlights the differences between compostable and traditional plastic mulch films, emphasizing the benefits of compostable mulches for soil health and fertility. Dan also discusses various crops where compostable mulches are particularly effective, such as tomatoes, sweet corn, and strawberries, and addresses considerations for farmers transitioning from plastic to compostable mulches. Furthermore, he talks about emerging trends, legislation, and new applications for compostable mulches, including rice production, hemp farming, and vineyards. Dan concludes with advice for farmers and resources for further information on compostable mulches and Novamont's products. Note: intro and outro music credit to from
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Maximizing crop performance with biobased mulch: insights from Sam Wortman
03/01/2024
Maximizing crop performance with biobased mulch: insights from Sam Wortman
Join us for an enlightening conversation on the forefront of sustainable agriculture as we delve into the world of biobased mulch with expert Sam Wortman. In this episode, we uncover the transformative potential of biobased mulch in maximizing crop performance. From reducing weeds to conserving water, Sam shares invaluable insights into the diverse applications of biobased mulch in various crops, ranging from strawberries to lettuce, spinach, and more. Discover the journey behind Sam's pioneering research, his innovative solutions for weed suppression, and the fascinating implications for soil health and fertility. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or simply curious about the future of farming, this episode offers a captivating exploration of sustainable practices poised to shape the agricultural landscape. Transcripts can be found at Note: intro and outro music credit to from
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Down to the ground mulch talk with Dr. Deirdre Griffin LaHue
02/01/2024
Down to the ground mulch talk with Dr. Deirdre Griffin LaHue
Join us for an enlightening episode as Nataliya hosts Dr. Deirdre Griffin LaHue, an assistant professor in the Department of Crop and Soil Science at Washington State University. Deirdre's research centers on the impact of agricultural practices, such as cropping, tillage, rotation, and mulching, on soil health and the vital soil organisms that drive various soil functions. In this conversation, Deirdre provides insights into her unique journey from a previous career as a ballet dancer to becoming a soil scientist. She discusses the role of mulch in agriculture and explores the challenges and potential benefits of biodegradable mulch compared to conventional plastic mulch. The discussion delves into the long-term consequences of plastic mulch residues on the soil ecosystem and efforts to mitigate plastic pollution in soils. Deirdre also touches upon the fascinating world of soil microbes, their significance, and the ongoing research in understanding their roles in soil health. Tune in to gain valuable insights into sustainable agriculture, the impact of mulch on soil, and the intricate world beneath our feet.
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Sustainable Horticulture: Exploring Biodegradable Mulch with Dr. Carol Miles
12/29/2023
Sustainable Horticulture: Exploring Biodegradable Mulch with Dr. Carol Miles
In this podcast episode, Dr. Carol Miles, a seasoned vegetable extension specialist at Washington State University, shares her wealth of knowledge and insights on the world of sustainable horticulture, particularly focusing on biodegradable mulch. With nearly three decades of experience in the field, Dr. Miles discusses her journey into horticulture and the significance of vegetable crops in human nutrition, highlighting their often-overlooked role in agriculture. She delves into the distinctions between bio-based and biodegradable mulches, dispelling common myths and emphasizing the critical importance of understanding the polymer structure in determining a mulch's biodegradability. Dr. Miles also offers valuable advice to commercial growers interested in transitioning from traditional plastic mulches to biodegradable alternatives, touching upon the adjustments needed for laying equipment and the importance of crop rotation planning to mitigate potential challenges. Furthermore, she shares her passion for dry beans, a versatile and nutritious crop, stressing the importance of plant-based proteins and the positive impact they can have on human health. Lastly, Dr. Miles underlines the pressing issue of plastic pollution, emphasizing the urgent need for society to address and combat this global problem.
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Project Origins: Exploring Plastic Mulching's Evolution with Directors Lisa DeVetter and Markus Flury
11/27/2023
Project Origins: Exploring Plastic Mulching's Evolution with Directors Lisa DeVetter and Markus Flury
In today's podcast episode, we are joined by two special guests, Lisa DeVetter, Associate Professor in the Department of Horticulture at Washington State University, and Markus Flury, Professor in the Department of Crop and Soil Science at WSU. As key leaders of a national project titled "Improving End-of-Life Management of Plastic Mulches in Strawberry Systems", they share their insights and goals for the project. Lisa discusses her interest in soil biodegradable mulches and the sustainability concerns surrounding plastic mulches, emphasizing the need for data-driven solutions to optimize production efficiencies and environmental conditions. Markus, a soil scientist, highlights his background in soil remediation and the transition from studying biodegradable plastics to micro- and nanoplastics. Together, they lead a multidisciplinary team aiming to evaluate the impacts of various mulch technologies on horticultural, soil, sociocultural, and economic variables. Lisa and Markus express their hope to advance science and provide sustainable solutions, fostering informed policies and practices for growers. They emphasize the importance of training the next generation of scientists and collaborating across disciplines to address the challenges posed by plastic mulches. The discussion also touches on the historical use of mulches, the benefits of plastic mulches in agriculture, and the environmental impact and challenges associated with conventional polyethylene mulches. Ultimately, the project seeks to support the transition to more sustainable end-of-life outcomes for plastic mulches in strawberry systems and potentially other horticultural systems globally. Podcast episodes and transcripts are available at https://tinyurl.com/47hrdrmr
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Introducing Mulch Matters: Our Podcast Journey Begins
10/27/2023
Introducing Mulch Matters: Our Podcast Journey Begins
Dive into the world of agriculture and mulch with our Mulch Matters podcast. Discover the benefits of mulching, from moisture retention to temperature control and weed suppression. Learn about the role of organic materials in improving soil health and how plastic mulch impacts the environment. Join the conversation on sustainable agriculture and plastic waste reduction. Whether you're a researcher, farmer, or simply curious about agriculture, this podcast is for you. Explore the fascinating world of mulch and its impact on our planet.
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