PODCAST · education
Mulch Matters
by Nataliya Shcherbatyuk
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.
Episodes
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Willingness to Pay: Kevin Morris on Consumer Demand for Sustainable Strawberries
In this episode of Mulch Matters, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk talks with Kevin Morris, a PhD student in the School of Economic Sciences at Washington State University, whose research focuses on consumer willingness to pay for sustainably produced strawberries. Kevin shares how he became…
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Inside the Mulch Film Challenge: A Deep Dive with Waste Expert Gene Jones
In this episode of Mulch Matters, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with Gene Jones, Executive Director of the Southern Waste Information Exchange, to unpack more than four decades of experience in waste management and agricultural plastics. Gene shares how he became involved in mulch film...
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Turning recovered plastic mulch into opportunities for asphalt
In this episode of Mulch Matters, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with Dr. Karl Englund (Washington State University) and Dr. Kun Zhang (California State University, Chico) to explore one of the most challenging—and promising—topics in agricultural sustainability: recycling plastic…
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Turning Plastic Mulch into Opportunity: Cynthia Sigira on Pyrolysis, Recycling Challenges & Circular Solutions
In this episode of Mulch Matters, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with Cynthia Bosibori Sigira, a PhD researcher at NC State University, to explore the rapidly evolving world of agricultural plastic mulch and its end‑of‑life challenges. Cynthia shares her journey from studying...
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From Cradle to Grave: Life Cycle Insights from California's Strawberry Fields
What really happens to mulch films after they're used—and which options are truly sustainable? In this episode, PhD candidate Oluwatunmise Dada joins us to break down the full cradle‑to‑grave life cycle of biodegradable and polyethylene mulches in California's strawberry systems. We explore: •…
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Biodegradable Mulch in Florida Strawberries: Research, Challenges, and Opportunities
In this episode, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with Hadi Ghasemi, a Florida-based researcher, to explore how biodegradable plastic mulches (BDMs) are performing in real-world strawberry production systems. Together, they discuss the promise and limitations of BDMs compared to...
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Understanding Biodegradable Mulches, Microbes and Isotopes with Sean Schaeffer and Jacob Clements
In this episode of Mulch Matters, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with University of Tennessee researchers Dr. Sean Schaeffer and Jacob Clements to explore the unseen world beneath our feet, where biodegradable mulches, soil microbes, and even carbon isotopes reveal surprising stories....
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The Science Behind Compostable Mulch: A Conversation with Dan Martens
In this episode of Mulch Matters, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with Dan Martens, Vice President of Novamont North America, for a deep and candid conversation about the past, present, and future of compostable mulch films. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience, Dan walks us…
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From Macro to Micro: Following Mulch Fragments Through the Soil
In this episode of Mulch Matters, host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with Washington State University PhD researcher Xueyu Zhou to dig into what really happens to biodegradable mulch once it's tilled into the soil. Xueyu shares insights from a multi‑state field experiment spanning…
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Beyond the Plastic: How Social Values Shape Mulch Decisions in Agriculture
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we are joined by Dr. Beth Prosnitz, a postdoctoral research associate and sociologist at Washington State University, to explore the human side of plastic mulch decisions in agriculture. Rather than focusing only on materials or technology, this conversation…
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Plastic Waste to Soil Wealth: A Microbial Makeover with Sam Baker
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we sit down with Sam Baker, CEO of Wriggle Brew, for a compelling conversation that bridges soil science, sustainability, and the future of plastic waste management. What began as a quest to develop organic fertilizers using earthworms evolved into a…
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Recycling Roots: Theron Smith's Journey from Metal to Mulch in the Plasticulture Revolution
This podcast episode from Mulch Matters features an in-depth conversation with Theron Smith, co-owner of Flipping Iron—a California-based recycling company that has evolved from metal recovery to becoming a key player in agricultural plastic recycling. The episode traces Theron's personal and...
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From Wood Chips to Mulch: A Conversation on Lignocellulose Film with Aidan Williams
In this episode we're diving into a type of mulch you may not have heard much about—lignocellulose film (LCF). Joining me is Aidan Williams, who has been researching this bio-based biodegradable mulch made from renewable woody biomass. Aidan shares her journey into agroecology, how LCF is…
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Beyond Plastic: Dr. Shuresh Ghimire on Extension Partnerships, IPM, Hemp, and Smarter Mulching Solutions
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we welcome Dr. Shuresh Ghimire, Associate Extension Educator and IPM Specialist at the University of Connecticut. From his roots on a small farm in Nepal to leading integrated pest management programs in the USA, Shuresh shares his journey, expertise, and…
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History and Future of Sustainable Plasticulture in CA with Jazmine Mejia-Muñoz
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we speak with Jazmine Mejia-Muñoz, Water Quality Program Manager at the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation, about the intersection of agriculture, conservation, and plastic use in California's iconic Monterey Bay region. Together, we explore the deep-rooted...
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From Washington to China: Lessons in Strawberry Production and Sustainable Ag with Dr. Carol Miles
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...
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Engineering a Cleaner Future: Recycling Plasticulture with Andros Engineering
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...
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Digging Deep: Microplastics, Soil Health, and Sustainable Agriculture with Nayab Gull
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...
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Transforming Plastic Waste: Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture with Kevin DeWhitt
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…
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Plastic Pollution in Agriculture: Challenges, Solutions, and the Global Impact with Dr. Karen Mancl
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…
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From Construction to Cultivation: Ben Weiss on Hydromulch, Sustainability, and the Future of Agriculture
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…
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Breaking down biodegradable mulches: insights with Dr. Carol Miles
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...
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Mulch matters: exploring the impact of plastic (PE) and biodegradable (BDM) mulches in agriculture
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....
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Digging deeper: soil science, biodegradable mulches, and environmental sustainability with Markus Flury
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...
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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…
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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…
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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,...
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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...
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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...
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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…
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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...
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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,...
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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...
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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…
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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.…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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.
HOSTED BY
Nataliya Shcherbatyuk
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Mulch Matters have?
Mulch Matters currently has 35 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Mulch Matters about?
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...
How often does Mulch Matters release new episodes?
Mulch Matters has 35 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Mulch Matters?
You can listen to Mulch Matters on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Mulch Matters?
Mulch Matters is created and hosted by Nataliya Shcherbatyuk.
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