Sowing Sustainability: Professor Champions Local Food and Wisdom This Earth Day

Today is Earth Day. Many of us are thinking about how we can do our part to protect the planet, not just globally—but right here in our own backyards. Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo spoke to Dr. Himanee Gupta, Associate Professor of Historical Studies at Empire State University and a passionate advocate for community sustainability.Professor Gupta brings a wealth of experience, not just from the classroom but from the soil—she runs a small farm herself. She teaches a course that dives deep into the practices that build stronger, healthier communities, from supporting local farmers markets and growing your own food, to composting, preserving heirloom crops, and honoring Indigenous wisdom.Patricio explores how these grassroots efforts aren’t just good for the environment—they’re essential for food security, community resilience, and reconnecting with the cycles of nature.