Sustainable Sun Prairie: Conversations for a Greener Community

Join host Rose Daily and guests Ben Stanger of Green Box Compost & Noah Bloedorn of Reap Food Group to learn about Dane County food systems. Farmland is a familiar sight across Wisconsin—but have you ever wondered what crops are being grown and where they go after harvest? While today’s food system is geared towards corporate-scale agriculture, many community members seek to support local, small-scale growers. Tune in to learn more about how our local food system works, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities to build a more resilient, community-focused food system for the future.Green Box Compost: Green Box Compost | Compost Pickup Service in Madison, WIReap Food Group: Building a Better Food System - REAP Food Group

Heat pumps are one of the biggest game changers in home heating and cooling - they're ultra-efficient, all-electric, and the future of home comfort. But there's also some concerns around them: they don’t work in cold climates, they cost too much, and they’re too complicated. So, what’s the truth? Join host Rose Daily and guest Stephen Cavill to learn exactly how heat pumps work, separate myth from fact, and learn step-by-step tips for successfully switching to a heat pump.Madison Home Performance: https://madisonhomeperformance.com/Heat Pumps 101: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/heat-pump-systemsStephen's Electric Bills: https://madisonhomeperformance.com/about-us-bpi-certified/Home Energy Efficiency Informational Videos: https://madisonhomeperformance.com/energy-tips-videos/(01:55) Role of HVAC systems(03:06) Most common types of HVAC systems(05:21) How do heat pumps work?(07:39) 300-400% efficiency(08:15) Heat pumps are just fancy air conditioners(09:15) Myth #1: heat pumps are only for heating(11:34) Myth #2: heat pumps don't work in cold climates(16:10) Heat pump performance in the winter(19:23) What about -22F?(22:50) Myth #3: heat pumps aren't affordable(31:13) Myth #4: heat pumps don't save any money(34:02) 85% of HVAC replacements are driven by emergencies(38:15) Home energy assessment & load calculation(45:45) Top questions to ask your hvac contractor

Art and artists play a powerful role in raising awareness around climate change issues and solutions. Join host Rose Daily and guests Mayela Finol and Raquel Sutherland to learn how art is a force for connection, education, and transformation, and what is lost when art is left out of the climate conversation. This episode also explores how creating art together can build stronger communities, the role of storytelling in resilience, and how public art project are helping shape collective visions for a sustainable future.(02:40) Sneak peek into an artist's life(06:54) Strengthening communities through art(09:38) 50 youth inspire a mural design(11:51) Art + science = communication(17:40) Kids are the answer to climate change(23:22) Storytelling through art(27:55) Giving a voice & providing a dream(31:02) Speaking without saying a word(33:04) Art makes climate change real & personal

Most of us grow up eating without ever being taught where our food comes from, or how it impacts the planet. Join host Rose Daily and guests Tia Tevaarwerk and Hannah Best as they discuss sustainable food choices: why they matter, their impact on the planet and community, and personal food choices they've made. Additionally, they give tips and advice on how to stay motivated while making these sustainable choices.(0:01:55) Defining "sustainable" food(0:03:02) Your food choices matter!(0:08:55) Resources required to raise plants vs animals(0:11:16) Vegan, vegetarian, and eating locally(0:22:29) Protein sources, traveling, eating out, debunking misconceptions, & costs.(0:35:59) High quality soil produces nutrient dense plants(0:38:16) It's more than just a diet(0:46:25) Pro tips for making sustainable food choices(0:49:53) Easy plant-based swaps(0:58:04) Education, awareness, & strictness(1:01:04) Staying motivated with sustainable food choices

Trees are capable of so much more than just providing shade and cleaning our air. Join host Rose Daily and guest Brian Wahl (Wisconsin DNR) to learn all of the amazing benefits of trees, including how they reduce energy costs, increase anti-cancer proteins in the body, and bring more business to your downtown. This episode also explores how to protect trees during construction projects and small things you can do to help the trees on your property thrive.Planting trees correctly: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/urbanforests/treeplantingresourcesHeat island & trees: https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-05/documents/reducing_urban_heat_islands_ch_2.pdfInternational Society of Arboriculture: Trees are good.org (learn about tree care and how to find a certified Arborist): https://wwv.isa-arbor.com/publicoutreach/treesaregood/indexNature’s Riches: The Health and Financial Benefits of Nearby Nature : https://www.naturewithin.info/New/2016.11.Economic_Benefits_of_Nature_in_Cities.KWolf.pdfForest Bathing: https://longevity.stanford.edu/lifestyle/2023/10/03/the-difference-between-hiking-and-forest-bathing/Timestamps:(01:49) The urban forest(03:26) Trees: are they the answer?(05:23) Wildlife habitat, dust mop, carbon sequestration(07:58) $80 million in energy savings(10:31) Trees & the heat island effect(14:10) Sponge in a rainstorm(17:17) Health benefits of trees(18:49) Forest bathing & anti-cancer proteins(21:42) Birth weight in children(24:33) Property values & downtown shops(30:50) Impact of emerald ash borer (32:06) Replacing a mature tree with sapplings(37:03) Damaging trees during construction projects(44:33) Help your trees THRIVE(58:23) resources & closing thoughts

"Protecting special places forever" is the mission statement of Groundswell Conservancy, a local nonprofit focused on land conservation. Join host Rose Daily and guest BJ Byers to learn how land is selected for conservation, what happens after acquisition, and how community members can get involved in land restoration.Groundswell Conservancy: https://groundswellconservancy.org/Find your local land trust: https://landtrustalliance.org/land-trusts(01:00) Protecting special places forever(02:48) What land is worth conserving?(06:03) Rare & endagered species(10:01) What's next after land acquisition?(13:10) Conservation easement(21:24) Groundswell's work in action

Spending time in nature has so many physical and social benefits, yet, in today's world, both adults and children are spending less time outside. Join host Rose Daily and guest BJ Beyers for a discussion on the unique connection humans have with nature and the important role this plays in wellbeing. This episode explores why we're spending less time in nature and the unique benefits received just from spending a few moments outside.Groundswell Conservancy: https://groundswellconservancy.org/White et al. 2019 Nature research paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44097-3(02:38) We spend 68 years of our lives indoors(03:53) Factors keeping us inside(10:29) Scheduling time in nature(10:47) Does time in nature shift as we age?(18:09) Spending 4 months in the wildernenss(22:31) Scheduled hikes, wildlife observation, camping(30:57) Benefits: improved wellbeing, increased focus, heightened creativity, desire to protect(34:37) Walking outside or watching a video of nature: which is better?(38:40) Hedonic vs eudaimonic wellbeing(40:32) How to achieve peak happiness in nature(45:11) Organizing field trips and outdoor volunteer events with Groundswell Conservancy

In today's world with social media, virtual meetings, and online petitions, advocating has become easier than ever. But it's also brought with it a multitude of advocacy outlets, making it challenging to know where to start. Join host Rose Daily and guests Kim Mintrone and Eneida Hysi for a discussion on the most effective strategies for driving change and ensuring your voice is heard. Through the framework of inform, engage, and lead, this episode provides the tools needed to become an changemaker. (02:33) Meaning of advocacy(03:39) Choice paralysis & other challenges(05:44) Framework: objective, audience, action(13:48) Powers held by local governments(22:44) Inform: newsletters, events, council meetings, social media(27:48) Engage: surveys, public comment, input sessions(32:42) Lead: run for office, commission, committee(35:05) School boards - important even if you don't have kids(41:07) State level advocacy & powers(45:00) Track a bill, town meetings, press conferences(48:50) Don't get discouraged!(53:14) Engaging with the federal government??

Join host Rose Daily and guest Michael Allen for a deep dive into some of the most promising renewable energy sources and exploring their potential to power the United States. A special focus will be given to utility-scale solar farms and what it take to bring these large energy generation systems to life. This episode will also touch on whether or not fossil fuels can be phased out completely, as well as how the new federal administration is impacting the clean energy future of our country.Energy Law Wisconsin: https://energylawwisconsin.com/Inflation Reduction Act Tax Credits: https://www.irs.gov/credits-and-deductions-under-the-inflation-reduction-act-of-2022(02:57) A shortage of power in Wisconsin?(04:45) Renewable energy potential of the U.S.(08:20) Factors to consider when developing clean energy farms(10:04) 70% of clean energy comes from utility-scale systems(12:21) Will fossil fuels be phased out completely?(19:08) Financing energy generation projects(22:58) Bringing a solar farm to life(29:23) Tariffs & permitting(31:00) Who owns energy generation systems?(36:30) Maintaining large scale solar farms(38:43) The new federal administration: energy emergency, boycotting windfarms, & increasing drilling(43:07) Impacts to the Inflation Reduction Act

The cold winters in Wisconsin always bring with them temperatures in the single digits, snowfall, and icy roads. Wisconsinites respond by applying a liberal amount of salt to roads and sidewalks to prevent people and vehicles from slipping. But once the ice is melted, where does the salt go? Host Rose Daily and guest Allison Madison explore the negative impacts of salt on our built world, natural environment, and human health, as well as what we can do to fight salt pollution.(03:05) Should we be concerned about salt?(04:07) Salt damages infrastructure(06:53) Zooplankton, algae, and biogeochemistry(11:34) Salt levels are rising in rivers(12:26) We're consuming too much salt(14:27) What about our dogs and cats?(15:47) Shovel more, salt less(20:51) Salt brine as a proactive approach(23:14) Beet juice, pickle juice, molasses(28:09) Use your voice(32:48) The role municipalities play in salt solutions(36:16) Salt use policies(38:43) Heated streets & salt takeback programs(41:43) Statewide action?(44:55) Salt pollution advocacy

Hoping to reduce your carbon footprint this year? Looking for resolution ideas that are good for you AND the planet? This episode has you covered! Host Rose Daily and guest Lorenza Zebell share 25 sustainable resolution ideas for 2025 that anyone can adopt - no matter where they are on their sustainability journey. From small daily shifts to impactful changes in energy use and consumption, they cover easy-to-implement ideas like subscribing to climate friendly social media accounts, testing your soil, and switching to time of use electricity rates. Plus, they discuss practical tips for achieving your resolutions throughout the new year. A summarized list of the 25 sustainable resolution ideas can be accessed here: /DocumentCenter/View/15880/SSP-Episode-15-Summary-ListSustain Dane: https://sustaindane.org/Invest Your Values tool: https://investyourvalues.org/(02:42) Our 2024 & 2025 resolutions(05:31) Softball resolutions: zero-waste products & reusable grocery bags(08:06) Fair trade grocery items(09:07) Subscribe to social media climate accounts(10:21) Choose glass over plastic(11:42) The most impactful resolution on emissions(13:32) Resolutions for your wallet(14:26) Time of use rate(16:01) Conduct a lightbulb inventory(17:10) Hang dry laundry(18:00) Reduce fashion consumption(20:14) Invest in an kilowatt meter(21:43) Review your investments!(22:59) Water softeners(23:47) Green energy program(24:48) Resolutions for your lawn(27:45) Start a green team at your place of work(30:01) Have more conversations about climate change(31:32) How to achieve your resolutions this year

There are currently billions of dollars on the table to support whole-home energy efficiency upgrades in the United States. Wisconsin received a $150 million cut and became the first state in the country to establish its Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES) program, administered through Focus on Energy. Through the HOMES program, Wisconsin homeowners and renters can receive substantial rebates for energy efficiency upgrades, including insulation, HVAC, windows, and more. Host Rose Daily and guests Dylan Crye with Focus on Energy and Joe Pater with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin discuss program details, eligibility, and the process for applying, along with the positive impact this program is having on local contractors.HOMES Program Overview: https://focusonenergy.com/ira-homesFocus on Energy Rebate Finder: https://focusonenergy.com/get-startedIRA Registered Contractor List: https://www.clearesult.com/partner-hub/find-contractor/17/263IRA Registered Contractor Resources: https://focusonenergy.com/ira-registered-contractorsDepartment of Energy Home Energy Rebates map: https://www.energy.gov/save/rebates(02:40) What is the HOMES program?(04:08) $150 million to Wisconsin(06:45) Focus on Energy as the program administrator(07:23) Focus on Energy rebates vs HOMES rebates - what's the difference?(10:31) Energy efficiency: a smart investment(12:59) How contractors will benefit from HOMES.(19:02) IRA registered contractors(25:00) The process: income qualification, IRA registered contractor, energy assessment(28:27) Why is an energy assessment required?(29:36) Blower door test & infrared cameras(33:36) Building shell first, core second, solar last(38:54) Stacking rebates to save thousands(47:31) What about renters?(52:51) Home Energy Rebates in other states(54:28) Everyone is eligible!

Curbside recycling has been around for over 30 years and has become a staple in our daily lives. We see those blue or green recycling bins everywhere – at home, in our schools, and at work. But even if recycling feels like second nature, there are some surprising facts that many of us might not know. In this episode, host Rose Daily and guest Todd Bollenbach discuss 6 things every consumer needs to know about recycling, including exploring the impact of wish cycling and revealing the meaning behind the small numbers on the bottom of plastic contains (news flash - they're not actually recycling numbers!).Pellitteri Waste Systems: https://www.pellitteri.com/The truth about recycling numbers: https://recyclesmartma.org/2023/05/recyclings-magic-numbers/#:~:text=The%20numbers%20on%20the%20bottom,indicate%20whether%20something%20is%20recyclable.(02:04) "Recycling Numbers" are not what they seem!(06:11) Which plastics are typically recyclable?(08:30) Recycling contamination rates(09:40) Wishcycling 101(12:42) Top 7 wishcycled items nationally(17:30) To crush or not to crush(24:36) Hauler vs Processor vs Recycler(26:46) Which materials are infinitely recyclable?(30:10) Recycling & downcycling plastics(35:38) Energy consumption of recycling

Have you ever picked up a product claiming to be eco-friendly, only to wonder if that green label was just a marketing gimmick? Do labels such as 'compostable,' 'cruelty-free,' and 'organic' actually hold meaning? What product labels can consumers trust? All of these questions and more will be answered in this episode where we dive deep into the deceptive world of greenwashing. Host Rose Daily and guest Kim Mintrone unravel how companies use clever but misleading tactics to appear environmentally friendly, while their actual impact remains questionable. Featured are real-life examples from large brands, such as Target, Shein, McDonalds, and H&M.Greenwashed Brands Tool: https://greenwash.com/Third-party verified product labels: https://www.ecocenter.org/sites/default/files/2021-06/updated_Factsheet%20Third-Party%20Certifications%20and%20Eco-Labels.pdfEco-labels to look for when shopping: https://www.ecowatch.com/eco-friendly-labels-1881939362.html(02:28) The definition of greenwashing(04:35) Our first encounters with greenwashing(06:40) Corporate motivation to greenwash(08:47) 58% of CEOs admitted to greenwashing(10:54) Fashion, meat, and automobiles(12:16) Using the color green & images of the earth(13:32) Don't trust the labels!(17:04) Third-party verified labels(17:16) BPI certification for compostable products(18:30) Green Seal cleaning products(20:02) Non-GMO & USDA Organic(23:28) Energy Star(25:00) Cruelty free, sustainable forest, fair trade(29:43) Target's "fair-trade" jeans(31:41) Product recyclability(35:30) H&M's clothing recycling program(36:53) McDonald's recyclable straws(39:18) Shein's appeal to eco-consumers(40:26) Clothing made from recycled material(42:08) Influencers' role in greenwashing(46:10) Refillability: the double-edged sword(49:03) Read the product labels!(51:04) B-Corp: the label you can trust(52:37) Product traceability(55:10) Do your research before purchasing(56:03) Every small action makes a difference!

What does it take to create a sustainable school? Join us as we discuss this question with Kevin Splain, Sustainability Manager for Sun Prairie School District, and two passionate student activists who have recently graduated from local high schools. Together, they uncover the current state of sustainability initiatives within schools, illuminating the essential shifts needed to make schools greener. From student-led advocacy groups to impactful policy reforms, discover the actionable steps paving the way for greener schools of tomorrow.(02:48) Geothermal systems, solar, and LEDs in our schools(05:05) The role of a dedicated school energy manager(05:45) Start with an energy audit!(06:57) Making sustainability visible(11:00) Is school sustainability important to students?(13:36) Wisconsin's first net-zero school!(15:59) What does it take to maintain a net-zero school?(18:48) Resolutions drive sustainable change(22:23) Students, teachers, staff - who drives change?(26:21) Tolerating discomfort to reduce energy demand(27:55) Do students have a voice?(31:54) Sustainability coordinators for schools(35:59) Student Line 5 protest(40:22) vegan food options, natural light, and reusable lunch plates(46:54) Our dream sustainable school

There are over 3.3 million registered EVs on the road in the United States today, which makes up just over 1% of our country's total light-duty vehicles. Although EVs have been growing in popularity, there are many misconceptions about their range, performance, affordability, and environmental impact. Join me and Jessica Wagner in this episode as we use national data and our personal experiences to debunk the six biggest myths about EVs.MIT Carbon Counter Tool: https://www.carboncounter.com/?utm_campaign=Monthly%20newsletter&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=107725603&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--dVaDH9VDNuT8z3Jdxu93iFECoXlia5bIlCmKR_7MOhLclBTGnAg6vW7lft-OOnVTnC1UbY1hXzfvPXpNhJkumEGRL3A&utm_content=107725603&utm_source=hs_email#!/exploreEPA Electric Vehicle Myths: https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/electric-vehicle-mythsTemperature impacts to battery range graph: https://www.geotab.com/blog/ev-range/Climate impacts of EVs vs ICEs: https://climate.mit.edu/ask-mit/are-electric-vehicles-definitely-better-climate-gas-powered-cars#:~:text=The%20researchers%20found%20that%2C%20on,vehicle%20created%20just%20200%20grams.(02:27) The EVs we drive, hesitations about purchasing an EV(07:36) Charging our EVs at our homes(08:38) EVs, PHEVs, hybrids, ICEs(11:40) Myth 1: EVs are more expensive to purchase and drive than ICEs(15:30) Our EV will pay for itself in 8 years!(18:17) Myth 2: EVs are worse for the environment that ICEs(21:44) MIT graph: total cost of ownership vs lifetime greenhouse gas emissions(24:47) Myth 3: there is nowhere to charge EVs(30:58) Types of charging: level 1, level 2, level 3 (DC fast charging)(35:33) Is it expensive to charge your EV?(37:42) Myth 4: EVs can't handle daily commutes(40:26) Regenerative braking(41:10) Does weather impact battery range?(45:45) Myth 5: EVs will explode & catch fire!(49:30) Myth 6: EV batteries need to be replaced at 100,000 miles(53:53) Will the government ban ICE vehicles??(55:39) Not all EVs are good for the environment!

What does it take for a restaurant to become "Green Certified" through the National Green Restaurant Association? Join me in this conversation with Jordan Short, the head Chef at Café Manna, to learn about the world of sustainable restaurant practices. Cafe Manna has incoporated sustainability into their operations since 2008 and holds the title of being the first three-star certified green restaurant in the state of Wisconsin. In this episode, we'll explore opportunities for restaurants to embrace sustainability without compromising on taste or profitability.National Green Restaurant Association: https://www.dinegreen.com/Cafe Manna: https://cafemanna.com/(02:23) Inspiration to strive for a Green Restaurant certification(04:37) Does being Green excite employees? (06:30) Saying no to polystyrene foam and yes to recycling & composting(09:37) LED lightbulbs & high efficiency appliances(11:28) Restaurant water savings(12:33) Composting and smart meal planning(15:42) No straws and compostable takeout containers(20:46) Eco-friendly soaps & cleaners(22:15) Vegan entrees, garden-grown ingredients, and serving based on the season(32:21) Sourcing tables and chairs made from recycled materials(34:22) Education & transparency(37:01) Plans to achieve 4 stars?(38:32) Does becoming a Green restaurant save money?(42:35) Drawing in a diverse set of customers(45:58) Do consumers prefer dining at Green restaurants?(47:46) Sustainable practices for customers(51:24) Advice for restaurants who want to pursue a Green Restaurant Certification

Spring has officially sprung here in Wisconsin which means our natural environment is buzzing with excitement as our local pollinators emerge from hibernation, our lawns become green again, and flowers begin to bloom. Amidst the seasonal splendor, there’s important work to be done – work that involves our beloved pollinators and the vital ecosystems they support. Ever heard of No Mow May? Or wondered about the magic of community pollinator gardens? Well, you’re in for a treat! Today we’re discussing these eco-friendly practices and exploring how they’re sowing the seeds of change in our local landscape.(05:50) Community pollinator gardens in Sun Prairie(09:20) Value of community gardens(11:14) Many hands contribute(13:55) Step-by-step process for establishing a community garden(17:17) Lesson learned in engaging stakeholders(25:19) Selecting a prime location(26:45) Identifying a water source(31:51) seeds, seedlings, mature plants - oh my!(33:41) When should I order plants?(34:46) Dog urination & splitting plants(37:40) Alternative lawns!(41:08) What's the deal with No Mow May??(43:44) No Mow May IS effective

Happy Earth Day! To celebrate, please enjoy this bonus episode of Sustainable Sun Prairie that is focused on pollinator conservation. Pollinators are often associated with Earth Day because of the important role they plan in our food production and creating a healthier environment. This episode will provide you with a full toolkit of resources and knowledge that will empower you to transform your yard into a pollinator paradise. It's so important that we focus on taking actions in our own yards because native pollinator species are declining rapidly due to urbanization, habitat destruction, and the use of pesticides. We as individuals can work to protect them by creating safe, friendly spaces in our own yards that provide food, water, and shelter to our native pollinators. Did you catch the keyword? Email this episode's keyword to [email protected] to receive a free pollinator-friendly tree or shrub, while supplies last!Xerces Society Pollinator-Friendly Native Plant Lists: https://xerces.org/pollinator-conservation/pollinator-friendly-plant-listsUW-Madison Pollinator Resources: https://pollinators.wisc.edu/Pollinator-Friendly Trees & Shrubs: https://www.pollinatorsnativeplants.com/uploads/1/3/9/1/13913231/treesshrubs1.pdf(5:01) How the City of Sun Prairie is helping pollinators(9:00) City park participation in No Mow May(11:14) Native vs ornamental - which type of flower is better for pollinators?(19:16) concentrated garden or distributed flowers?(21:15) Native flower species recommendations!(24:37) Best practices for ground covers(28:10) Starting from seed, seedling, or mature plants(30:36) Short-term and long-term pollinator garden maintenance(36:44) Patience is key - your plants need time to grow strong root systems(39:50) 6, 7, or 8 feet tall!(43:00) Leave the leaves & delay spring cleanup(48:54) Water sources, trees, shrubs(52:36) How do I communicate my conservation intentions to my neighbors?

In this special episode, we celebrate Earth Day, a momentous occasion that reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect and preserve our precious home. Tune in to learn about the humble beginnings of Earth Day, its evolution over the past 50 years, how it is celebrated around the world, and local programming and events happening all month right here in Sun Prairie. Happy Earth Month!Sun Prairie Earth Month Events: https://cityofsunprairie.com/1620/2024-Earth-MonthSun Prairie Park Friends: https://parksfriends.org/earthday/(2:33) Gratitude vs thankfulness(5:59) History of Earth Day(16:34) Annual park cleanup(20:57) Earth Day events: "Make Haste to Reduce Waste!"(26:01) How is Earth Day celebrated around the world?(29:09) Sun Prairie Park Friends initiatives (34:11) We are one

As we browse through the racks of trendy clothes or scroll through thousands of pictures of online fashion options, it’s easy to focus on what’s in front of us and to overlook the hidden costs of our fashion choices. The reality is that the garments we wear come with a hefty environmental price tag with a large amount of clothing ending up in landfill. In fact, the average American throws out 81 pounds of clothes every year. Join us in this engaging episode as we discuss the true cost of the fashion industry and practical strategies anyone can implement to combat fast fashion.(02:34) 20 years in the fashion industry(04:34) Environmental impacts of fashion(10:28) Fast vs Slow fashion(13:26) Pressure to consume fashion(18:31) How to identify fast fashion(20:38) A peek into the supply chain(26:08) Inadequate wages & dangerous work places(29:43) Greenwashing in the fashion industry(32:32) How sustainable are your favorite brands??(34:18) Can we trust "made in America" brands?(35:44) Practical strategies to fight fast fashion(42:41) Wear 30 Times challenge(47:12) Clothing swaps & fashion rentals(51:54) What happens to the clothes we donate?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the transportation sector accounts for 29% of all greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, with 57% of these emissions coming directly from personal vehicles. The layout of our country was designed for the convenience of passenger vehicles, yet these passenger vehicles are a major driver of climate change. In this episode, we discuss strategies for removing personal vehicles from the road and replacing them with efficient forms of public transit that meet the objectives of the triple bottom line of sustainability: convenient for society, friendly to the environment, and affordable.Sun Prairie's metro transit service: https://cityofsunprairie.com/1740/Metro-Transit-Service-to-Sun-Prairie(03:39) Public transit options in Sun Prairie(04:19) Sun Prairie's transit journey(07:50) Increasing ridership trends(11:25) The value of our transit system(12:38) Routes S, W, and A(15:51) Cost to ride the bus(17:06) What transit barriers do we face?(21:33) How to save $13,000 annually (23:47) Emissions: cars vs buses(26:27) Bus Rapid Transit - coming soon!(31:29) How is BRT faster than a car??(35:29) Bringing it back to the triple bottom line(39:49) City of Madison's BRT plans(42:17) Complete Streets: the future of our roads(48:41) Greening our streets(50:00) Economic value of complete streets(52:12) Vision Zero(53:13) Combatting the heat island effect(55:11) Adding complete streets to Sun Prairie

According to the National Institute for Urban Wildlife, it is estimated that anywhere from 100 million to 1 billion birds are killed each year in America by window collisions. How can we best co-exist safely in our built world with avian companions? Join us in this episode as we explore answers to this question and discuss strategies for creating bird-safe backyards, homes, and cities.Preventing bird collisions: https://madisonaudubon.org/prevent-collisionsBird migration tool: https://birdcast.info/(00:03:58) Why do birds collide with windows?(00:07:48) Bird species most likely to collide(00:09:42) Survival rate of bird window collisions(00:14:53) Sharing collision stories(00:18:21) Bird feeder placement & landscape(00:21:07) Window treatment options(00:32:10) What NOT to do(00:35:01) Window treatments in action in Dane County(00:39:26) Are wind turbines bird killers?(00:42:32) Skyscrapers vs low-rise buildings(00:47:45) Economic benefit of bird-safe cities(00:51:25) Conducting bird studies(00:56:55) Sun Prairie Public Library bird study results(01:00:57) City-wide bird-safe ordinance

The holidays are a time for gift giving, sharing meals, and spending time with loved ones. But they're also the time when Americans produce an excessive amount of waste: 25% more than any other time of the year! Join us in this special 2-part holiday-themed episode where we unwrap the secrets to a joyous yet eco-conscious holiday celebration and uncover practical steps for cutting back your holiday waste without losing an ounce of joy.As a gift to you, we've included a list of 25 actions you can take during this holiday season to reduce your waste and incorporate sustainable practices into your celebrations. The list can be accessed by clicking here.(01:05) Greening our greeting cards(04:51) Cutting back energy waste(07:31) Low-waste decor(09:48) Combatting holiday food waste(19:03) The great debate: real vs artificial holiday trees(26:31) Potted holiday trees - the next big thing?(29:16) Committing to a low-waste holiday

The holidays are a time for gift giving, sharing meals, and spending time with loved ones. But they're also the time when Americans produce an excessive amount of waste: 25% more than any other time of the year! Join us in this special 2-part holiday-themed episode where we unwrap the secrets to a joyous yet eco-conscious holiday celebration and uncover practical steps for cutting back your holiday waste without losing an ounce of joy.As a gift to you, we've included a list of 25 actions you can take during this holiday season to reduce your waste and incorporate sustainable practices into your celebrations. The list can be accessed by clicking here.Happy Holidays!(02:41) The bigger picture of holiday waste(07:31) Dark truth behind returned gifts(12:02) Gift wrapping waste(13:36) Decoration turnover(18:24) Traditions that create waste(20:30) Holiday food waste(24:50) Greeting cards(26:19) Energy and transportation emissions(29:36) Old fashioned Christmas(32:42) Low-waste gifts(39:03) Sustainable gift wrap alternatives

The word "sustainability" has become a regular part of our society's vocabulary, but what exactly does this buzzword mean? Dive into Sustainability 101 with us and learn the true definition of sustainability (it's more than just helping the environment!), the 5 biggest barriers to living sustainably, and what you can do right now to take sustainable action in your own life.(03:02) Sustainability as a buzzword(06:28) Definition of sustainability(12:21) Triple bottom line (people, profit, planet)(16:57) Expanding the triple bottom line(22:41) Do my actions actually make a difference?(26:40) Our personal sustainable actions(33:13) 5 biggest barriers to living sustainably(46:37) Vote with your dollars(52:07) Local action(54:07) Tips for getting started

Mark your calendars for the podcast launch on November 7th!

Check out the second promo announcing details for the upcoming Sustainable Sun Prairie podcast.(00:10) testing

Promo #1 announcing the upcoming Sustainable Sun Prairie podcast with Rose Daily, Sustainability Coordinator.