How Local Stewardship Drives Ocean Conservation: Insights from Zach Plopper

From Chicken Manure to Clean Energy: Kristi Shaw's Journey with Mermaid Energy

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Kristi Shaw, the CEO and founder of Mermaid Energy, to discuss her remarkable journey from a rural Maryland upbringing to the forefront of renewable energy development in the Caribbean. Kristi shares her unique perspective as a marine biologist and public health expert, detailing her transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Her experiences with environmental challenges, particularly following hurricanes, inspired her to seek innovative solutions for sustainable energy in vulnerable regions. Kristi introduces listeners to Mermaid Energy's mission to tackle the growing problem of invasive sargassum seaweed in the Caribbean. By intercepting this abundant resource at sea, her company aims to transform it into bio-stimulants, renewable diesel, and other valuable products, while also addressing public health and ecological concerns. This episode is a testament to how individuals can leverage their backgrounds and experiences to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond. * (00:00) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts * (00:28) - - Welcome Kristi Shaw from Mermaid Energy * (01:12) - - Kristi's Journey: From Farm to Science * (02:57) - - Transitioning to Renewable Energy Development * (04:41) - - Challenges and Opportunities in Energy Projects * (10:00) - - Insights from the Chicken Manure Company * (16:35) - - Introduction to Mermaid Energy * (18:53) - - Addressing the Sargassum Seaweed Crisis * (20:09) - - Innovative Solutions for Seaweed Management * (24:10) - - Current Status and Future Goals * (27:21) - - Importance of Community Collaboration * (29:27) - - Bringing Technical Jobs to the Caribbean * (30:29) - - One Word: Execute * (31:51) - - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Can Climate Education Transform Communities? Insights from Abby Jordan

In this enlightening episode of **Green Shoots & Big Shifts**, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Abby Jordan, the Climate Education Program Manager at the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Abby shares her inspiring journey from a volunteer in community climate initiatives to a leader in climate education, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience in fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues among youth. Through her work at NWF, Abby is not only educating students about climate resilience but also empowering them to take meaningful action in their communities. Abby discusses two pivotal programs she manages: the Climate and Resilience Education Task Force Youth Steering Committee, which engages high school students in climate education and civic engagement, and the Resilient Schools and Communities program, which provides a standardized curriculum for educators. Abby highlights the impactful Beach Grass Plantings project in New York City, where students participate in ecological restoration efforts, gaining firsthand experience in climate solutions. This episode not only sheds light on the significance of grassroots climate action but also emphasizes the role of education in nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Resources * Explore the RISC Website [https://www.riscnyc.org/] for resources on how you and your community can get involved! [https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1] * Follow NWF on Instagram  [https://www.instagram.com/riscnyc1/](@riscnyc1 * Access the standardized version of the RiSC Curriculum for a national audience focused on four climate impacts: coastal flooding, inland flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat, here: https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1 [https://www.riscnyc.org/curriculum-1] * New York Amsterdam News highlighted the RISC program in their featured climate solutions front page editorial: “NYC High Schools Work to Protect Brooklyn’s Shoreline.” [https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/] https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/ [https://amsterdamnews.com/news/2025/05/22/nyc-high-schoolers-work-to-protect-brooklyns-shoreline/] * CBS News TV produced a piece about the RiSC beach grass plantings reaching millions of viewers, watch: "Students helping to restore sand dunes in Coney Island.” [https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/] https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/ [https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/video/students-helping-to-restore-sand-dunes-in-coney-island/] * To see NWF students and volunteers in action, watch and share our documentary: Where it Floods: Planting Hope in Coney Island  [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQ] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQ [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxNMYorttQQ] * State of the Planet: Can Coney Island’s Dunes Protect Against Another Sandy? May 2026,https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2026/05/21/can-coney-islands-dunes-protect-against-another-sandy...

Is Sustainability the New Business Imperative in the age of AI? ft. Stacy Cline

In this enlightening episode of *Green Shoots & Big Shifts*, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Stacy Cline, the Senior Director of Sustainability at GitLab, to discuss the intersection of sustainability and corporate responsibility within the tech industry. Stacy shares her inspiring journey from the nonprofit sector to her pivotal role in shaping GitLab's sustainability initiatives. With a focus on environmental, social, and governance regulations, Stacy elaborates on how GitLab is not only ensuring compliance but also helping its customers meet their own sustainability goals. Stacy highlights the crucial role of intentionality in integrating sustainability into business practices. She discusses GitLab's Green DevOps Committee, which focuses on sustainable software development and innovative practices that address customer needs for lower emissions. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of balancing AI innovation with sustainable practices, emphasizing that sustainability should be woven into the fabric of business objectives rather than treated as a separate initiative. This episode is packed with practical insights for organizations looking to embrace sustainability as a core component of their operations.  You can access Gitlab's library here: AI catalog: https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/ [https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/].  This link [https://gitlab.com/explore/ai-catalog/agents/?search=green]will pull up the 'green' agents and flows.   * (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast * (01:20) - - Guest Introduction: Stacy Cline * (02:10) - - Stacy's Career Journey * (05:00) - - Overview of GitLab's Sustainability Goals * (07:45) - - Customer Expectations on Sustainability * (10:30) - - Connecting Sustainability to Business Goals * (13:20) - - Sustainability in a Software Company * (16:50) - - GitLab's Green DevOps Committee * (19:40) - - Balancing AI Innovation and Sustainability * (23:10) - - Responsible Use of AI at GitLab * (26:30) - - Vendor Collaboration on Sustainability * (29:15) - - Best Practices for Smaller Companies * (32:00) - - Importance of Cross-Functional Support * (34:20) - - GitLab's Open Source Community Engagement * (37:00) - - Conclusion and Final Thoughts * (38:40) - - Closing Word: Intentionality in Actions

How Local Stewardship Drives Ocean Conservation: Insights from Zach Plopper

In this episode, host Reetu Gupta welcomes Zach Plopper, Senior Environmental Director at the Surfrider Foundation, who shares his inspiring journey of merging a passion for surfing with environmental activism. Growing up near the ocean in Solana Beach, California, Zach has dedicated his life to protecting the coastlines and ocean ecosystems that he cherishes. His experiences, from competitive surfing to his extensive work with various conservation organizations, highlight the profound connection between personal passion and professional purpose. Zach elaborates on the mission of the Surfrider Foundation, which aims to protect the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches through grassroots activism. He discusses the organization's initiatives focused on reducing plastic pollution, combating climate change, and ensuring clean water for beachgoers. Through local chapters and community engagement, Surfrider empowers individuals to advocate for their coastal environments, showcasing how local stewardship can lead to systemic changes. This episode is a call to action for all ocean lovers to engage in conservation efforts, emphasizing that every individual can make a difference in protecting our natural resources. * (00:00) - - Introduction to the Podcast * (00:40) - - Guest Introduction: Zach Plopper * (01:10) - - Zach's Background and Early Life * (05:00) - - Journey into Environmental Work * (10:15) - - Overview of Surfrider Foundation * (12:45) - - Surfrider's Mission and Goals * (15:30) - - Importance of Local Stewardship * (20:00) - - Notable Projects in Conservation * (25:00) - - Effective Conservation Strategies * (30:15) - - Community Engagement in Conservation * (35:00) - - Stakeholder Involvement and Challenges * (40:30) - - Keeping Teams Motivated * (45:00) - - Hopeful Future for Coastal Conservation * (50:00) - - Final Thoughts on Engagement * (52:30) - - Closing Remarks and Goodbye

Can Students Lead the Way in Sustainability? Tom Twist Weighs In

In this episode of Green Shoots & Big Shifts, host Reetu Gupta sits down with Thomas Twist, a sustainability innovator from Bates College. Thomas shares his unique journey into the field of sustainability, which includes an unexpected detour through a Buddhist monastery. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and mindfulness in tackling the often overwhelming challenges posed by climate change. Through his roles at the Chewonki Foundation and Bates College, Tom has pioneered hands-on, project-based learning experiences that empower students to engage meaningfully in sustainability efforts. The conversation dives deep into several pivotal projects that Tom has spearheaded, illustrating how experiential learning can bridge the gap between theory and practice in education. Tom discusses the transformative power of involving students in real-world sustainability projects, such as transitioning Bates College to a carbon-neutral campus and implementing large-scale renewable energy solutions. He shares key insights on building trust with students, the importance of quick wins in sustainability initiatives, and how to foster a culture of sustainability on college campuses. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies for implementing sustainability practices in their own organizations, as well as inspiration from the optimism and initiative of the next generation of leaders. * (00:03) - - Introduction to Green Shoots & Big Shifts * (00:28) - - Welcome and Introduction of Guest * (00:56) - - Thomas Twist's Background in Sustainability * (01:57) - - Journey to Sustainability Role * (02:58) - - Insights from Monastery Experience * (04:47) - - Pivotal Projects in Sustainability * (05:31) - - Hands-On Learning in Renewable Projects * (08:00) - - Transitioning Projects from Foundation to Bates * (09:43) - - Learning from Project Failures * (10:26) - - Large Scale Solar Project at Bates * (12:14) - - Establishing Trust with Students * (13:40) - - Eco Reps Program at Bates College * (15:29) - - Collaboration Among Colleges in Sustainability * (15:44) - - Unique Challenges on College Campuses * (17:29) - - Incentives for Student Engagement * (18:39) - - Strategies for Decarbonization and Sustainability * (20:48) - - Motivation and Inspiration in Sustainability Work * (22:35) - - Final Thoughts on Trust in Sustainability * (24:03) - - Closing Remarks and Thanks