The Bard CEP Eco Reader

Transformational leadership, the importance of a growth mindset, and learning to fail forward

An interview with Dr. Kathy Whiteman on leadership in the environmental space Dr. Kathy Whiteman, from Western New Mexico University, and I sat down for a Zoom chat about leadership in the environmental space. Dr. Whiteman started Western New Mexico University’s Outdoor Program back in 2012, and it still remains …

On Animal Intelligence, We’ve Got It All Wrong

How well do we really know our animal siblings? A year or so ago, I listened to this RadioLab episode on animal intelligence—and it blew me away. Not only was it funny and entertaining, it introduced an idea I had never thought of. Dan Engber, a science writer, argued that the …

Is your Sustainably Labeled Seafood Actually Sustainable?

  While I was sitting at home one night, I decided to watch a new Netflix documentary titled “Seaspiracy.” The name was catchy and seemed interesting as I love learning about the ocean and our waterways. Little did I know that I was in for a rude awakening. While watching …

Seeding a Revolution: Sovereignty and Connection in the Food System

“Seeds are living things…intimately connected and intertwined with story, and lineage and place and people”  – Rowan White, Sierra Seeds Can you remember the last time you held a seed? We all have ancestors who carried seeds, yet today we have little relationship with the food we eat and the …

Leading the Way toward a Sustainable Future for Connecticut

At the heart of all environmental work is people. And the voices of people, especially those who have been disenfranchised, must be elevated in order to create equitable solutions to environmental crises. One woman had the courage to not only recognize, but fulfill this need for Connecticut by mobilizing state …

Renewable Energy and Land Conservation in the Hudson Valley: A Conversation with Scenic Hudson’s Rocci Aguirre

The Hudson Valley—home to the Bard Center for Environmental Policy, some of New York State’s most beautiful views, and your dear author—is a changing region in 2021. The Valley is seeing an influx of new residents from New York City and other urban centers around the Northeastern U.S. People are …

Bird Soundscapes: Why Don’t I Hear My Favorite Bird Anymore?

My day typically starts with a cup of coffee on my porch and birdsongs. The state of California, where I live, is known for its variety of bird species. Dark-eyed Juncos, California Towhees, Oak Titmice, and Cedar Waxwings fill the morning air with sweet symphonic sounds. While this experience has …

Transparent Solar: The Technology of the Future?

  What if your phone, your car, your home and office could be charged by the sun? Transparent solar technologies have the potential to transform cities from massive energy consumers to energy producers.   What is “transparent solar” anyway? Transparent solar is cutting-edge technology that absorbs and utilizes light energy …

The Technical Matters: The Value of Science in Advocacy and Leadership

  Engaging with leaders in the advocacy world can provide emerging leaders with insight into some of the most pressing environmental and social issues in different geographic areas. Western Resource Advocates, an advocacy nonprofit based in Boulder, Colorado, works to facilitate local and regional action to protect Western land, air, …