Environment and Sustainability Podcasts for a Sustainable Mind
Estimated reading time: 17 minutes
If you’re looking for a way to learn about sustainability that doesn’t require hours of research and reading, why not try a green living podcast? Take a break from the true crime (am I right?), and check out some of these top-rated, highly recommended sustainability and environmental podcasts! Listen to them while you commute, clean house, relax, or recreate sustainably!
I scoured ratings, reviews, and other articles on this topic to bring you the best of the best. And, in an effort to give you my honest opinion, I listened to at least two episodes of each of them to let you know what I thought, too. Please remember that everyone learns differently due to factors like interest, educational background, lived experience, etc. – so my opinion is purely subjective. Please don’t write off any of these eco-friendly podcasts until you’ve tried them for yourself!
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Environmental Podcasts to Start You Off
New to the whole sustainability conversation? No worries! You have to start somewhere. I’ve described the following sustainability podcasts in order from most easy-listening and understandable first, so start at the beginning and work your way down the list!
A Sustainable Mind
Host: Marjorie Alexander
This podcast on environmental issues started as the host’s master’s thesis project after she noticed that she was one of the few women of colour present in these conversations. The purpose and goal is to expand the conversation to include everyone, and the podcast succeeds in catering to a broad audience with understandable vocabulary and dialogue. Episodes feature a variety of change-maker guests to raise awareness of their campaigns, from sustainable beauty products to climate change, sustainable healthcare and much more. A Sustainable Mind will be the sustainable inspiration you’re looking for, with each episode ending with actionable advice and resources.
What I Thought
It was evident to me that the host put a lot of thought into the questions asked to the guests to make the show dynamic, informative, enjoyable, and engaging. She makes an effort to ensure the guests’ knowledge is highlighted and the listener is taken into account. I had no problem following and focusing on this sustainability podcast. I especially liked that she asked each guest for resources they would like to share with listeners. (I’ve added a few of the books to my to-read list!)
Episodes I listened to: 096 “BinBreeze Composting Powder: Reducing wood waste and making composting less gross with CEO Taylor McCarten,” and “Trash Academy: Communicating Consumption and Waste through Activism & Advocacy with Ron Whyte”
Would I listen again? Yes, absolutely.
*New episodes haven’t appeared since September 2022
The Sustainability Agenda
Host: Fergal Byrne
A sustainability podcast that aims to answer the most prominent sustainability questions of the week, The Sustainability Agenda doesn’t disappoint. The host interviews leading thinkers to share their ideas on what’s working (or not) in the sustainability movement. The range of diverse topics allows the listener to opt for those that pique their interest and help them learn more to explore further.
What I Thought
I found the guests knowledgeable, and the information was presented in a way that most listeners would understand. With so many episodes and topics, there is bound to be something for everyone here.
Episodes I listened to: Episode 73: Interview with Thomas Lovejoy, “The Godfather of Biodiversity,” and Episode 80: Interview with Brian Von Herzen on Marine Permaculture
Would I listen again? I plan to peruse the episodes and save the ones in which the topic interests me.
Sustainability Defined
Hosts: Jay Seigel and Scott Breen
Each episode of this sustainability podcast focuses on a single topic under the large umbrella of sustainability. An experienced pro helps the hosts dissect and explain the subject on a personal and global level. The podcast covers a broad range of topics that can help you fill in any knowledge gaps you may have. Still, due to the depth of exploration, you will need some prior knowledge in the field to grasp the discussions fully.
What I Thought
I enjoyed the episodes I listened to, especially the one about Water Infrastructure, as water conservation is a passion of mine. I found the Green Aviation episode a little dull, but it may have been due to the topic. Although I’ve categorized this podcast in “podcasts to start you off,” I would save it for after you’ve explored some others first!
Episodes I listened to: Ep. 29:Green Aviation with John Mandyck (United Technologies), Ep. 21:Water Infrastructure with Will Sarni (Water Foundry, LLC)
Would I listen again? Probably, but I would choose a topic that interests me and for which I have some prior knowledge.
Best Sustainability Podcasts for the Savvy
Think: Sustainability
Host: Lawrence Bull, with some episodes featuring guest hosts
This is a little bit of a mix of radio show and podcast, with some episodes that feature interviews with expert guests conducted by Lawrence Bull and some featuring guest hosts. The show digs into the impact of consumption across all areas of life, taking a closer look at specifics and complex areas of sustainability. These deep dives require a substantial degree of prior knowledge, making this podcast suitable for professionals, industry leaders and other experts in the field.
What I Thought
I suppose it may be because I chose episodes that were either of interest to me or that I had some knowledge of, but I didn’t find the show as complicated to follow or understand as all of the descriptions stated. Perhaps I got lucky with guest speakers who were well-spoken and explained aspects thoroughly. Either way, I wouldn’t write off this ethical consumption podcast based on its categorization here!
Episodes I listened to: Eco-anxiety: “My two years in Sydney off the grid,” “Is capitalism incompatible with a healthy climate?” and 171 – “Trees? Not in my backyard”
Would I listen again? I think I will when there is an episode topic in which I have some prior knowledge.
Inside Social Innovation – Stanford Social Innovation Review
This social impact podcast features talks with community members, academics, leaders in business, government, philanthropy, and the nonprofit sector. Although many topics do involve environmental sustainability, other social issues are covered, which sets this podcast apart from the rest here. Discussions also include finding solutions to various environmental issues and sustainability related social problems.
*There have been no new episodes since March 2022
What I Thought
To be fully transparent, the categorization under “Sustainability Podcasts for the Savvy” here is quite apt. I found the style of this podcast to be almost Ted Talk and lecture-like, and if it weren’t for the topics of interest I chose to listen to, I could see how I may not enjoy other episodes. Don’t let that sway you from trying one yourself – you may enjoy this style!
Episodes I listened to: “A Hippocratic Oath for Our Digital Lives” and “Crisis and Change: Conversations with Leaders – Navigating the Pandemic”
Would I listen again? Likely only if the topic was something in which I held deep interest or passion.
Best Environmental Podcasts About Green Energy
The Big Switch
Host: Dr. Melissa Lott, Research Director at the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University
To achieve net zero, we must quickly transform our homes, buildings, cars, and economy. Dr. Lott and expert guests in the field explain how to rebuild our energy systems to address climate change. Prepare for historical examples, insight into current events, and incisive analysis. This green technology podcast is organized and delivered in such a way that makes it accessible and exciting for sustainability newcomers and experts alike.
What I Thought
I absolutely loved this eco-conscious podcast. The style employed is super dynamic, held my interest, and narrated/hosted in such a way that I found engaging and suitable for all audiences. Everyone will have different tastes and learning styles, and this one was it for me!
Episodes I listened to: “Retrofitting Homes for Net Zero” and “Part 1: An Energy Crisis in the Making*
Would I listen again? I think it’s obvious – yes! (*there are four more parts to this one!)
The Energy Gang
Hosts: (Former) co-host Jigar Shah (head of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office and co-founder and former CEO of SunEdison), Katherine Hamilton (policy consultant in renewable energy, former researcher at the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory), Producer and co-host Stephen Lacey
The diverse cast of regular hosts offers expertise and insight into the latest trends in energy, cleantech, renewables, and the environment. Guest speakers are also be invited to talk about emerging technology, allowing the listener to learn something new every episode. It is accessible to the average listener interested in green tech and energy but also diverse and innovative enough for sustainable energy enthusiasts.
What I Thought
Although everything related to sustainability interests me, I struggle with topics that lend themselves to business and technology (not my forte). That said, my mind did wander a few times during my listening. I still managed to learn a few things, so I won’t be writing this one off yet!
Episodes I listened to: “Heating Up: What Record Temperatures Mean for Energy” and “What Could 2023 Deliver for Energy?”
Would I listen again? I will keep this one in my back pocket when I need some resources for writing about the latest in green energy.
Food-Based Sustainability Podcasts
Sourcing Matters
Host: Aaron Niederhelman, CEO & co-founder of OneHealthAg
A talk show focusing on critical issues, Sourcing Matters welcomes a diversity of guests to discuss such topics as fisheries, organic sourcing, and food chain sustainability. Targeted to the average listener, information is presented in a non-judgemental way and offers a chance to think differently about our food. Guests help the host examine problems and solutions, feeding ourselves in the future and will have you thinking about where your food comes from and how it gets to your table.
What I Thought
It was very informative, with knowledgeable guest speakers. Deep dives into specific topics, so may require a more vested interest to listen. I caught my mind wandering away as I listened, but I was hiking at the time, so it was not my most focused time of day.
Episodes I listened to: ep. 38 Judith Schwartz – author of “Cows Save the Planet” & “Water in Plain Sight” and ep. 107 Animal Centric Agriculture
Would I listen again? Yes, but perhaps when in a more focused headspace and environment.
The Urban Farm
Host: Greg Peterson (longtime urban farmer and founder of Urban Farm U.)
In this sustainability podcast, host Greg Peterson and guests discuss the art and value of growing food in urban areas. Many topics are explored, including garden basics, composting, beekeeping, permaculture, and more. You will discover tips and tricks to overcome challenges and even how to monetize your farm! You will be inspired to participate in your own food system, with many resources to empower you.
What I Thought
I love gardening. But, as of 18 months ago, I don’t own a home (I live a nomadic lifestyle), so I cannot grow my own food. Therefore, I found my mind wandering while listening (this seems to be a trend.) I think this would interest you if you have a home and already garden or would like to start.
Episodes I listened to: 755: Water Harvesting For Our Gardens & 745: Native Edibles with Peggy Sue and Mike
Would I listen again? Yes, once my partner and I have our little piece of land we plan to buy and develop as a sustainable homestead!
Best Climate Change Podcasts
Outrage and Optimism
Host: Christiana Figueres (founder of Global Optimism and former UN Chief), Tom Rivett-Carnac (co-founder of Global Optimism) and Paul Dickinson (Chair of the non-profit charity CDP)
This environmental education podcast will do just as it sounds – help you balance the outrage you may be feeling amidst the lack of adequate climate action and the optimism we must keep if anything is to change. Episodes feature expert guests who will share their opinions and knowledge in the fields of science, business, finance, politics and culture. The dose of optimism in each episode will inform, energize, and inspire listeners to take action.
What I Thought
I have mixed feelings about this podcast. I was excited for the first episode I listened to, “How to Talk About Climate Change So People Will Listen.” Still, I found myself drifting from the conversation. I thoroughly enjoyed the topic of the second episode, “Powered by Nature,” and it held my interest easily. One thing that I wasn’t too fond of in general was that at the beginning of each episode, the hosts talked about general sustainability issues and news for about twenty minutes before welcoming their guest and getting into the meat of the episode and topic described in the title. I did enjoy that each episode closes by featuring a musician or group to help you broaden your playlist!
Episodes I listened to: “How to Talk About Climate Change So People Will Listen” and “Powered by Nature.”
Would I listen again? Yes, if the episode topic sounded interesting, but to be honest, I might fast forward past the banter at the start.
Creative or Easy-Listening Podcasts about Sustainability
How To Save a Planet
Hosts: Alex Blumberg (award-winning journalist) and Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson (marine biologist and co-editor of All We Can Save, a collection of essays from women at the forefront of the climate movement)
This easy-listening podcast features informal conversations between the hosts and various guests who are experts in climate and energy. Information is delivered in a way that makes significant issues understandable to the average listener and offers valuable tips for individuals to address climate change.
What I Thought
I liked how dynamic this podcast was. It held my interest and attention while still being very informative. In the episodes I listened to, both sides and pros and cons of issues and topics were presented. I liked that each episode has a “Calls to Action” feature to help you incorporate relevant, sustainable practices or take action on the topic of the episode.
Episodes I listened to: “Am I the Climate A**hole?” and “Should We Mine the Deep Sea?”
Would I listen again? Yes, definitely.
Green Dreamer
Host: Kamea Chayne (writer and sustainability activist)
Green Dreamer is a creative, community-supported podcast exploring environmental justice issues. Guests often offer perspectives of marginalized peoples and tend to be innovative thinkers and activists. The episodes lean toward more academic thinking and rhetoric, which can be limiting, but don’t let that sway you from giving it a listen!
What I Thought
In the episodes I listened to, the host didn’t contribute much to the dialogue, so the guest speaker had the main task of holding my interest and attention. Although both delivered great information, were well-spoken, and had much to say of value, I found my mind wandering in the second episode. I enjoyed that the host asked each guest for resources and recommendations near the end of the interviews for listeners to partake in if desired.
Episodes I listened to: 400) “Anand Giridharas: Expanding Empathy and Breaking Political Barriers” and 382) “Min Young Song: From Everyday Denial to Everyday Attention.”
Would I listen again? Probably, but I would need to choose which episode wisely based on the topic and guest.
Bioneers
Host: Neil Harvey, who is also Consulting Producer
The Bioneers: Revolution From the Heart of Nature focuses on creating a better future with guests who are leading social and scientific innovators. These guests represent a diverse group of grassroots leaders knowledgeable on various topics, including climate justice, gender equity, youth activism and more. They give a voice to those often marginalized or excluded in these discussions to enlighten and inspire listeners. The series has won many awards as it sets itself apart with its creative storytelling full of compassion and empathy.
On top of “Revolution From the Heart of Nature,” Bioneers has many other series focused on sustainability: Bioneers: Indigenous Knowledge, Bioneers: Ecological Design, Bioneers: Protecting and Restoring Nature, Bioneers: Ecological Medicine, Bioneers: Nature, Culture, and Spirit, Bioneers: Food Justice, Bioneers: Democracy, Human Rights, and The Rights of Nature.
What I Thought
I thoroughly enjoyed the episodes I listened to. Both had me thinking about people in situations unlike my own in a new light and from another perspective. Some of the facts I learned were shocking and led me to desire social and climate justice even more than I already do!
Episodes I listened to: “Staying Alive: Reconciling Nature, Culture, and Gay Rights/Taylor Brorby” and “Take This Job and Shove It: The Great Resignation or The Great Revolt?/Saru Jayaraman.”
Would I listen again? I already downloaded more!
sustainababble
Hosts: Ol and Dave
A comedy podcast laced with entertaining clips from familiar media sources, Ol and Dave are entertaining while informative. If you want to learn about sustainability but dread feeling eco-anxiety, this podcast is for you. With incredibly diverse topics explored, you will find more than one that interests you. Listen with the whole family as a great way to teach kids about sustainability!
What I Thought
Fantastic. The topics were fascinating, and the rhetoric was entertaining yet still informative. The issues and topics aren’t too complex, and the episodes I listened to didn’t dive into anything too deeply. This is the perfect podcast for lounging in your beach chair and letting your mind drift through sustainability!
Episodes I listened to: #249 David Attenborough, #248 Being Dead, and # 234 Avocados
Would I listen again? Absolutely
Other Sustainability Podcasts That Came Up
Here are some other sustainable lifestyle podcasts that came up a few times in my research. I didn’t have the time to listen to an episode from each of these, but they are on the list! From ethical fashion podcasts to podcasts about the environment, there is something for everyone.
- Climate One from The Commonwealth Club
- Planet A – Talks on Climate Change
- Talking Headways: A Streetsblog Podcast
- Sustainability 101 Podcast
- Trash Talking with Eco-Warriors | Sustainability, Green Business, Conservation
- Sustainably Influenced
- The Minimalists Podcast
- The Wardrobe Crisis Podcast
- Consciously Clueless
- The YIKES Podcast
- Mothers of Innovation
- A Matter of Degrees
- Living Planet
- Hot Take
- Getting in the Loop
- Environmentality. with Dr. Brendon Anthony
- The Energy Transition Show
- Climate Changers
- The Climate Pod
- Breaking Green Ceilings
Final Thoughts about these sustainability podcasts
No matter which sustainable development podcast you choose, listening to an environmental podcast is a fantastic way to learn about sustainability and how we can be more earth-friendly.
Happy eco-friendly listening!
