Plastic Podcast

In this episode of Plastic Podcast, host Clark Marchese delves into the intricate relationship between plastics and climate change with Dr. Livia Cabernard, a sustainability expert from the Technical University of Munich. They explore how the lifecycle of plastics, especially those powered by coal, significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Through a detailed discussion, Dr. Cabernard unveils how shifts in global production to coal-based economies exacerbate climate impacts and discusses potential policy measures that could mitigate these effects. The conversation also touches on the social and economic dimensions of plastic production, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive strategies that address both environmental and human factors. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between our material choices and global climate challenges.Episode Guests: Dr. Livia CabernardMore information about Livia Cabernard hereFind Dr. Cabernard’s article on plastic and emissions hereFind more of Dr. Cabernard’s articles here.More information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos 

In this episode, host Clark Marchese delves into the world of poetry and plastic with guest Allison Cobb, author of "Plastic: An Autobiography." Exploring the intersections between environmental activism and creative expression, the discussion uncovers how poetic perspectives can deepen our understanding of plastic’s pervasive presence and its impact on the environment. Cobb shares her unique approach to environmental issues through poetic narratives, revealing connections between plastic pollution, historical events, and personal experiences. By integrating themes of war, wildlife, and wastefulness, Cobb's work serves as a catalyst for broader environmental consciousness and action. Join us as we explore how creativity and environmental responsibility can coexist in the pursuit of sustainable solutions.Episode Guests: Allison CobbMore information about Allison Cobb hereFind Allison’s book, Plastic: An Autobiography hereMore information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos 

This episode journeys to Thailand and Malaysia to uncover the intricacies of the global plastic waste economy—a staggering $37 billion industry. Clark is joined by Dr. Hui Ling, a sustainability consultant from Malaysia, and Dr. Danny Marks, an environmental policy researcher from Dublin City University, to explore the international trade of plastic waste, the socio-economic impacts on countries receiving Western waste, and the uneven burden of pollution. They discuss the consequences of poor waste management systems, financial incentives in the global waste trade, and the urgent need for international policies to address these issues. Tune in to learn about the efforts to mitigate these challenges and hear expert insights on creating a more sustainable future for plastic waste management.Episode Guests: Dr. Danny Marks and Dr. Hui LingFind Dr. Marks’ publications on Research GateFind Dr. Chen Hui Ling’s publications on Research GateMore information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos 

In this revealing episode of "Plastic Podcast," host Clark Marchese delves deep into the alarming gaps in our understanding of plastics and human health. Joined by Dr. Sarah Dunlop, Dr. Bhedita Seewoo, and Dr. Louise Goodes from the University of Western Australia, the discussion centers around their extensive research documented in the Plastics Human Health Map. This comprehensive project aggregates all known research linking plastics and their associated chemicals to human health outcomes, highlighting vast uncharted territories in scientific knowledge. The episode explores the daunting realities of microplastics and chemical exposures, the societal and environmental justice issues surrounding plastic pollution, and the urgent need for global policy changes. Listen in for an in-depth conversation that not only uncovers the hidden dangers of plastic but also emphasizes the critical need for further research to safeguard future generations.Episode Guests: Dr. Sarah Dunlop on LinkedIn and publications on Research GateDr. Bhedita Seewoo on LinkedIn and publications on Research GateDr. Louise Goodes on LinkedIn and publications on Research GatePlastic Human Health Map hereLearn more about the Minderoo Foundation here.More information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos 

In this episode of Plastic Podcast, host Clark Marchese delves into the interdisciplinary world of plastic conservation with Dr. Yvonne Shashoua, a researcher at the National Museum of Denmark. They explore the nuanced role of plastics in history, culture, and the environment, discussing everything from the preservation of historical artifacts like WWII propaganda balloons and spacesuits to the impacts of plastic degradation in ocean environments. Dr. Shashoua shares insights from her extensive career in polymer chemistry and museum conservation, revealing the complexities of preserving plastic artifacts for future generations and the potential for reusing waste materials in innovative ways. This episode serves as a fascinating exploration of how museum science and conservation can inform our understanding of plastics and their place in our world.Episode Guest:  Dr. Yvonne ShashouaBrowse her publications on Research Gate .More information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos 

In this episode, host Clark Marchese interviews sea turtle biologist Dr. Christine Figgener. In 2015, Dr. Figgener filmed a viral video where she pulled a straw out of a turtle’s nose. This video prompted an anti-straw movement and solidified turtles as the symbol of plastic’s impact on marine life. The conversation allows an opportunity to reflect on the video and the movement almost ten years later. The two also candidly discuss the broader implications of plastic waste on marine life, the intersection of science and activism, and the urgent need for global environmental change. Episode Guest:  Dr. Christine FiggenerBrowse her publications on Research Gate .Follow Dr. Figginer on InstagramPre-order My Life with Sea Turtles by Christine FiggenerFind the viral video of the turtle and the straw on YouTubeMore information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos 

Episode Description: This episode of Plastic Podcast explores the multifaceted relationship between plastic and art, tracing its evolution from a novel medium to a vehicle for environmental activism. Featuring insights from Greek artist and art historian Dr. Johannis Tsoumas, the episode delves into the early adoption of plastics in art, highlighting the revolutionary shift brought about by acrylic paints in the 1930s and its subsequent influence on movements like abstract expressionism and pop art. It transitions into the role of plastic in contemporary art as a tool for protest against environmental degradation, showcasing the works of artists like Pamela Longobardi and Pascale Marthine Tayou. Through a blend of historical context and artistic critique, the episode unveils the complex narrative of plastic, portraying it as both a symbol of consumerist excess and a catalyst for socio-political awareness and changeEpisode Guest:  Dr. Johannis TsoumasBrowse his publications on Google Scholar and view some of his art here. Find the artwork discussed today using this link More information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos

In this episode of Plastic Podcast, host Clark Marchese delves into the complex world of biodegradable plastics. Joined by environmental biologist Dr. Winnie Courtene-Jones, they explore the scientific and environmental nuances of bioplastics, debunking common myths and uncovering the truth behind greenwashing. They discuss historical breakthroughs to the current surge in biodegradable plastic production, their real environmental impacts, and how they aren’t so different from conventional plastics. The discussion extends to the social and economic implications, and the potential for international policy change through the upcoming United Nations Treaty on Plastic Pollution. This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen to understand the nuanced reality of biodegradable plastics and their role in our environmental future.Episode Guest:  Dr. Winnie Courtene-JonesBrowse their publications on Research GateMore information on alternative plastics and the UN Treaty More information on Scientist’s Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty. Follow them on LinkedIn for policy briefs!More information about the episode and the Plastic PodcastEpisode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Tadeo Cabellos