First Coast Connect: Oreos and the Okefenokee

An Earth Day petition with more than 26,000 signatures was delivered to Chemours chemical company on the same day as its annual meeting of shareholders. It’s just one part of a multi-pronged effort by conservationists and students to protect the Okefenokee Swamp from the effects of nearby titanium mining. A similar plea was delivered to the maker of Oreo cookies and Sour Patch kids, treats that have used titanium dioxide as a product whitener. That letter urged Mondelez International to pledge not to ever use white pigment sourced from Okefenokee-area mines in its snack foods. We talk to two people behind the current campaign about progress to protect the country’s largest blackwater swamp and the challenges that remain. Guest: Josh Marks, environmental attorney, president of Georgians for the Okefenokee Mackenzi Hallmark, chair, Georgia Student Swamp Coalition Maximizing meadows Make your own meadow. A new step-by-step guide explores the environmental effects of transforming turfgrass lawnscapes into biodiverse habitats. The Florida Meadow Manual recognizes a growing desire by homeowners and landscapers for an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional, monoculture lawns. From plant selection and site preparation to long-term maintenance tips and design principals, the book provides instructions for, and the ecological rationale behind, creating even small, yard-sized meadows. We sit down with the book’s authors to discuss why Florida climate works for these particular landscapes and why meadows are a growing strategy for those seeking low-maintenance and affordable solutions. Guests: Gage Daniel J. LaPierre, post-doctoral research associate at University of Florida and co-author, The Florida Meadow Manual  Isabella Guttuso Browne, landscape designer and coordinator at UF Center for Landscape Conservation and co-author, The Florida Meadow Manual Artistic APtitude An exhibit of student artwork showcases “risk-taking, problem-solving and deep reflection,” according to organizers of Global Leadership Academy High School’s annual AP Art Portfolio Exhibition. Presented at Downtown Vision Inc., the show features 2- and 3D art and design pieces by the Advanced Placement students, demonstrating both technical ability and creative thinking. The exhibition’s opening reception is from 4 to 6 p.m. Saturday at DVI’s headquarters, 29 W. Duval St. Admission is free. Guests: Amanda Holloway, AP art instructor at Global Leadership Academy High School Tikabaya Thornton and Victoria “Vika” Kurochkin, featured student artists See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.