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Playlist: Possibly's Portfolio

 Credit: Logo by Marianne Harrison
Image by: Logo by Marianne Harrison 

Possibly looks at the science behind proposed environmental solutions - helping you cut through the noise and make choices that, possibly, will make a difference.

Featured

What happens to wind turbines when they wear out?

From Possibly | 03:53

Wind turbines have been popping up across the world as a more sustainable way to create electricity. But these turbines can’t last forever, and not all of their parts can be recycled. In this episode, we look into what happens to wind turbines when they wear out.

Nico-qmguwpi4sa4-unsplash-1_small Wind turbines have been popping up across the world as a more sustainable way to create electricity. But these turbines can’t last forever, and not all of their parts can be recycled. In this episode, we look into what happens to wind turbines when they wear out.

What would happen if we stopped creating greenhouse gas emissions right now?

From Possibly | 03:59

Today, we have a thought experiment on our minds. What would happen if we stopped creating greenhouse gas emissions right now? Would climate change be over?

Karsten-wurth-0w-uta0xz7w-unsplash_small Today, we have a thought experiment on our minds. What would happen if we stopped creating greenhouse gas emissions right now? Would climate change be over?

How does the color of the ground affect climate change?

From Possibly | 03:35

Take a look out your window. What color is the ground? It turns out that what you see plays a big role in the speed of climate change.

Fh_iceland_small Take a look out your window. What color is the ground? It turns out that what you see plays a big role in the speed of climate change.

Does climate change cause extreme weather? Take 2

From Possibly | 04:01

Last year, we answered this question from Marius, a third-grader at Heights Elementary School in Sharon, Massachusetts. He wanted to know-

Can global warming make more extreme weather? Like tornadoes and hurricanes and tsunamis and like big storms.

In the past few months, we’ve seen this extreme weather on full display. Not just big storms, but floods and extreme heat. So, we thought it made sense to air this episode again.

Photo_for_extreme_weather_small Last year, we answered this question from Marius, a third-grader at Heights Elementary School in Sharon, Massachusetts. He wanted to know- Can global warming make more extreme weather? Like tornadoes and hurricanes and tsunamis and like big storms. In the past few months, we’ve seen this extreme weather on full display. Not just big storms, but floods and extreme heat. So, we thought it made sense to air this episode again.

Should I buy online or in the store?

From Possibly | 03:22

These days, we can buy almost anything we want online—fancy food, designer clothes, new computers, the works. But is all this online shopping creating more greenhouse gas emissions compared to shopping in person?

Pickawood-gf8e6xvg_3e-unsplash_small These days, we can buy almost anything we want online—fancy food, designer clothes, new computers, the works. But is all this online shopping creating more greenhouse gas emissions compared to shopping in person?

Do you worry about climate change?

From Possibly | 04:00

Here at Possibly, we try to make climate change feel more manageable and less overwhelming. But there’s no avoiding that this problem is terrifying. It makes a lot of us feel… anxious.

So to help us face our fears, I decided to talk with Kate Schapira. She teaches non-fiction writing at Brown University and has spent nearly a decade listening to people’s climate anxieties.

Schapira_booth_2_small Here at Possibly, we try to make climate change feel more manageable and less overwhelming. But there’s no avoiding that this problem is terrifying. It makes a lot of us feel… anxious. So to help us face our fears, I decided to talk with Kate Schapira. She teaches non-fiction writing at Brown University and has spent nearly a decade listening to people’s climate anxieties.

Why are we breaking records for the hottest day on record?

From Possibly | 03:59

When people talk about climate change, it’s often described as something that might happen in the future. But, we’ve been breaking records for the hottest day on earth all summer. Here to explain what all of this means is our founder and the provost for sustainability at Brown University, Stephen Porder.

Patrick-perkins-z3_usverpfm-unsplash_small When people talk about climate change, it’s often described as something that might happen in the future. But, we’ve been breaking records for the hottest day on earth all summer. Here to explain what all of this means is our founder and the provost for sustainability at Brown University, Stephen Porder.

Meet one of the students who sued Montana to address climate change and won

From Possibly | Part of the A group of young people in Montana sued the state for not taking climate change seriously. What happened at the trial? series | 04:56

We got to talk to one of the youth plaintiffs from the constitutional climate case in Montana, to hear about her experience with the case, how our generation can keep fighting the climate crisis, and how it feels to have that responsibility on our shoulders.

110723-possibly-montana3_small We got to talk to one of the youth plaintiffs from the constitutional climate case in Montana, to hear about her experience with the case, how our generation can keep fighting the climate crisis, and how it feels to have that responsibility on our shoulders.


Transportation

Is driving an RV across the country worse than flying? Part 2

From Possibly | 04:01

Megan runs the number with Stephen after she finishes her own cross-country trip.

Img_1434_small Megan runs the number with Stephen after she finishes her own cross-country trip.

Is driving an RV across the country worse than flying?

From Possibly | 03:55

Earlier this year, we did an episode comparing emissions for flying versus driving the same distance. But what if you're driving an RV?

Dodge_avco2_small Earlier this year, we did an episode comparing emissions for flying versus driving the same distance. But what if you're driving an RV?

What Creates More Greenhouse Emissions - Flying Or Driving?

From Possibly | 03:42

In general, if you're traveling alone, driving creates two times the emissions of flying in a plane. Driving with just two people in the car makes flying and driving roughly equivalent and adding more people in the car makes driving more efficient than flying.

Drivingvsflying3_small

in general, if you're traveling alone, driving creates two times the emissions of flying in a plane. Driving with just two people in the car makes flying and driving roughly equivalent and adding more people in the car makes driving more efficient than flying.

So, If you’re going on a business trip by yourself, then take a flight, since emissions from driving alone will be greater than flying. But, if you’re traveling with your family, or a bunch of co-workers, think about making it a road trip.

Does speeding waste gas?

From Possibly | 04:02

The answer lies in drag: every time you double the speed you travel in a car, the energy you use quadruples. That’s because you’re fighting against more air resistance. This means your gas mileage is worse when you speed.

Speeding2_small The answer lies in drag: every time you double the speed you travel in a car, the energy you use quadruples. That’s because you’re fighting against more air resistance. This means your gas mileage is worse when you speed.

Is it worth it to buy a hybrid car?

From Possibly | 04:00

Taking into account the energy that goes into making a whole new car, is it more energy-efficient to keep the gas car you already have, or to get a new hybrid car?

Ralph-hutter-sbtdqmmwqpi-unsplash_small Taking into account the energy that goes into making a whole new car, is it more energy-efficient to keep the gas car you already have, or to get a new hybrid car?

Should I trade my car in for an electric vehicle?

From Possibly | 03:44

Listener Anne Cohen wants to know- is it better to keep my 2015 car with a traditional combustion engine, which gets close to 40 MPG, has about 50,000 miles on it, and is in great condition, or trade it for an electric vehicle?

Ernest-ojeh-aeytuoe1tkc-unsplash_small Listener Anne Cohen wants to know- is it better to keep my 2015 car with a traditional combustion engine, which gets close to 40 MPG, has about 50,000 miles on it, and is in great condition, or trade it for an electric vehicle?

Can we trust electric car batteries?

From Possibly | 03:45

In recent episodes, we’ve talked a lot about electric cars, but we haven’t really spent time talking about what makes them work- the battery. What are these batteries made of, and can we rely on them to get us where we need to go?

Michael-fousert-xrx5tcrsheu-unsplash_1__small In recent episodes, we’ve talked a lot about electric cars, but we haven’t really spent time talking about what makes them work- the battery. What are these batteries made of, and can we rely on them to get us where we need to go?

Is it possible to turn my gas car into an electric vehicle?

From Possibly | 03:52

Two years ago, we aired an episode responding to a question from a listener named Monica. She wanted to know if it was possible to convert her gas car into an electric one. We said it’s technically possible, but it's not really worth it. But has that answer changed?

Wade-lambert-_pydywqwu9u-unsplash_small Two years ago, we aired an episode responding to a question from a listener named Monica. She wanted to know if it was possible to convert her gas car into an electric one. We said it’s technically possible, but it's not really worth it. But has that answer changed?

What's the most sustainable way to travel down the East Coast?

From Possibly | 02:44

Today we’re answering a question about sustainable travel. What’s the best way to take a trip down the East Coast?

Nicolai-berntsen-2qm47li0w1c-unsplash_small Today we’re answering a question about sustainable travel. What’s the best way to take a trip down the East Coast?

What's the most sustainable way to travel down the East Coast?

From Possibly | 02:44

Today we’re answering a question about sustainable travel. What’s the best way to take a trip down the East Coast?

Nicolai-berntsen-2qm47li0w1c-unsplash_small Today we’re answering a question about sustainable travel. What’s the best way to take a trip down the East Coast?

Why do so many people bike to work in Copenhagen?

From Possibly | 03:45

Luci Jones from our Possibly team is studying abroad in Copenhagen and she's been blown away by the number of bikes on the road. She's curious why so many people bike and how this impacts carbon emissions.

Img_8780_small Luci Jones from our Possibly team is studying abroad in Copenhagen and she's been blown away by the number of bikes on the road. She's curious why so many people bike and how this impacts carbon emissions.

How does space travel compare to taking a plane ride?

From Possibly | 03:26

Today we’re answering a question from listener Molly Magid. She wants to know- what are the environmental impacts of space travel and how does it compare to say, taking a plane flight?

Bill-jelen-wowf_vj7dns-unsplash_small Today we’re answering a question from listener Molly Magid. She wants to know- what are the environmental impacts of space travel and how does it compare to say, taking a plane flight?

I want an electric car. Which one should I buy?

From Possibly | 04:01

The time has come! Our family needs a new car, and I’m ready to go electric. But, which one should I buy?

Here to help me out is our founder and Brown University’s Provost for sustainability- Stephen Porder.

Michael-fousert-o63s96_qn8c-unsplash_small The time has come! Our family needs a new car, and I’m ready to go electric. But, which one should I buy? Here to help me out is our founder and Brown University’s Provost for sustainability- Stephen Porder.

What’s it like to own an electric car?

From Possibly | 03:48

We did it. My family finally bought an electric car. What’s it like? Should you get one too? Here to help me explain is my husband, Ryan T Conaty.

Ryan_car_small We did it. My family finally bought an electric car. What’s it like? Should you get one too? Here to help me explain is my husband, Ryan T Conaty.


Food/eating

Is it better to drink beer from a bottle or a can?

From Possibly | 03:52

Summer is the perfect season to kick back and crack open a cold one. But, when you’re trying to pick the perfect beer, do you ever wonder whether it’s better to drink it from a bottle or a can?

Justin-sanchez-beer-unsplash_small Drink from a can! It takes fewer emissions to make an aluminum can and fewer emissions to deliver beer that comes in cans. Cans are also more likely to be recycled, it takes less energy to recycle them, and they're safer to pick up if they've been thrown on the ground.

What's the impact of eating nuts?

From Possibly | 03:37

This episode, we’re going to take a crack at nuts. You might’ve seen ads for healthy almonds, packs of pistachios, and more. They seem to be the “it” snack these days. So we wondered, what’s the impact of all those nuts?

Marcos-paulo-prado-vhcobzrzstg-unsplash_small This episode, we’re going to take a crack at nuts. You might’ve seen ads for healthy almonds, packs of pistachios, and more. They seem to be the “it” snack these days. So we wondered, what’s the impact of all those nuts?

What's the real impact of plastic straws?

From Possibly | 04:01

Why are so many people talking about banning straws right now, and how much of a difference does skipping the straw actually make?

Straws-8001_1920_small Straws, like most plastics, are made using fossil fuels and cannot be recycled. However, they are not the biggest problem when it comes to plastic waste that ends up in landfills or the ocean. If you use straws every day, they might be a significant part of your impact. A good way to reduce waste is to find which disposable, single-use items you use the most and try to cut back on them.

What's The Most Efficient Way To Wash Your Dishes?

From Possibly | 02:29

In the US, one out of five households don’t use a dishwasher because they think it uses more water and energy than washing by hand. So, we wanted to test this out: is hand washing really more efficient than using a dishwasher?

Carolyn-v-bllh0xjljcw-unsplash_small The answer is a resounding NO. Based on our experiment, handwashing used 5 times more water and about 4 times more energy than a modern dishwasher. And according to our research, older dishwashers still have better water and energy use than hand washing. You can save even more water and energy if you don’t pre-rinse your dishes and just scrape off any food scraps.

Take out battles: France vs The US

From Possibly | 03:54

I order a lot of takeout food these days. And I often cringe when I see the packaging, especially when I get all of those little soy sauce packets. I mentioned this to our founder, Stephen Porder. And he says, it doesn't have to be that way.

Stephen is in Paris this year on sabbatical, and he says his take-out has way less packaging. So, we tried a little experiment to see if his claims stack up.

Stephen_small I order a lot of takeout food these days. And I often cringe when I see the packaging, especially when I get all of those little soy sauce packets. I mentioned this to our founder, Stephen Porder. And he says, it doesn't have to be that way. Stephen is in Paris this year on sabbatical, and he says his take-out has way less packaging. So, we tried a little experiment to see if his claims stack up.

Take out battles: France vs The US

From Possibly | 03:54

I order a lot of takeout food these days. And I often cringe when I see the packaging, especially when I get all of those little soy sauce packets. I mentioned this to our founder, Stephen Porder. And he says, it doesn't have to be that way.

Stephen is in Paris this year on sabbatical, and he says his take-out has way less packaging. So, we tried a little experiment to see if his claims stack up.

Stephen_small I order a lot of takeout food these days. And I often cringe when I see the packaging, especially when I get all of those little soy sauce packets. I mentioned this to our founder, Stephen Porder. And he says, it doesn't have to be that way. Stephen is in Paris this year on sabbatical, and he says his take-out has way less packaging. So, we tried a little experiment to see if his claims stack up.

Is it worth it to pay more for organic meat?

From Possibly | 03:54

These days, it seems like there’s an organic option for every type of food out there, including meat. But organic usually means more expensive. That made us wonder, is it worth it to pay more for organic meat? And does it create fewer greenhouse gas emissions?

Christian-widell-vrt3z9ukfeg-unsplash_small These days, it seems like there’s an organic option for every type of food out there, including meat. But organic usually means more expensive. That made us wonder, is it worth it to pay more for organic meat? And does it create fewer greenhouse gas emissions?

Is it worth it to pay more for organic meat?

From Possibly | 03:54

These days, it seems like there’s an organic option for every type of food out there, including meat. But organic usually means more expensive. That made us wonder, is it worth it to pay more for organic meat? And does it create fewer greenhouse gas emissions?

Christian-widell-vrt3z9ukfeg-unsplash_small These days, it seems like there’s an organic option for every type of food out there, including meat. But organic usually means more expensive. That made us wonder, is it worth it to pay more for organic meat? And does it create fewer greenhouse gas emissions?

How is climate change affecting the flavor of our wine?

From Possibly | 03:24

When we talk about climate change, we often think about the big issues- sea levels rising, extreme weather, melting polar ice caps. But climate change has small, intimate consequences too. It turns out, our warming planet is even affecting the flavor of our wine. 

Wine-photo_small When we talk about climate change, we often think about the big issues- sea levels rising, extreme weather, melting polar ice caps. But climate change has small, intimate consequences too. It turns out, our warming planet is even affecting the flavor of our wine. 

Is making your own seltzer more energy efficient than buying it in a can?

From Possibly | 03:40

Today, we have a question from Keith Munslow, a musician from Providence. He and his wife drink a lot of seltzer. They recently switched to making his own seltzer at home with a soda maker — a machine that makes sparkling water.

He wants to know if using it is more energy-efficient than buying seltzer by the can.

Sharon-mccutcheon-om4o_x_qwd8-unsplash_small Today, we have a question from Keith Munslow, a musician from Providence. He and his wife drink a lot of seltzer. They recently switched to making his own seltzer at home with a soda maker — a machine that makes sparkling water. He wants to know if using it is more energy-efficient than buying seltzer by the can.

Can seaweed make cow burps more climate friendly?

From Possibly | 03:58

Imagine a field full of cows. What are they eating? You’re probably thinking: grass, hay, or some sort of grain. What you’re probably not imagining, is seaweed.

But some scientists say cows SHOULD be eating seaweed. And this small change to their diet could have a significant impact on the effects of climate change. What is this all about?

Annie-spratt-jmjnnq2xfoy-unsplash_small Imagine a field full of cows. What are they eating? You’re probably thinking: grass, hay, or some sort of grain. What you’re probably not imagining, is seaweed. But some scientists say cows SHOULD be eating seaweed. And this small change to their diet could have a significant impact on the effects of climate change. What is this all about?

How is climate change affecting our crops?

From Possibly | 03:35

Today, we’re going to talk about eating. How will climate change affect our food?

Edoardo-busti-5ofkc-fqk3q-unsplash_small Today, we’re going to talk about eating. How will climate change affect our food?

What’s the impact of cooling down our food?

From Possibly | 03:39

Today, we’ll be cooling down a bit and talking about refrigeration. Almost everyone has a refrigerator in their house and it’s on ALL the time. So, what’s the impact of cooling down our food?

Ello-aeu9uzstcfs-unsplash_small Today, we’ll be cooling down a bit and talking about refrigeration. Almost everyone has a refrigerator in their house and it’s on ALL the time. So, what’s the impact of cooling down our food?

Why should I care about food waste?

From Possibly | 03:28

Today, we’ll be talking about food waste. Many of us know that guilty feeling that comes with throwing away rotten bananas or stale bread. So, we wondered, what is the impact of all that waste?

Sinitta-leunen-bzl4kpsyvm0-unsplash_small Today, we’ll be talking about food waste. Many of us know that guilty feeling that comes with throwing away rotten bananas or stale bread. So, we wondered, what is the impact of all that waste?

How does climate change affect seafood?

From Possibly | 03:54

A while ago, we had an episode about how climate change affects the crops we use for food. And that got us wondering - how do rising temperatures affect other things we eat, like seafood? And what does that mean for us in Rhode Island?

Paul-einerhand-eysa6rorvl0-unsplash_small A while ago, we had an episode about how climate change affects the crops we use for food. And that got us wondering - how do rising temperatures affect other things we eat, like seafood? And what does that mean for us in Rhode Island?

Should we be eating more seafood?

From Possibly | 03:39

When you think of a plate of food, what’s normally right smack dab in the middle? A big hunk of meat? What if our first instinct was to say fish or shrimp? Would eating more seafood cut down on our greenhouse gas emissions?

Camila-igisk-yfu8qido9s4-unsplash_small When you think of a plate of food, what’s normally right smack dab in the middle? A big hunk of meat? What if our first instinct was to say fish or shrimp? Would eating more seafood cut down on our greenhouse gas emissions?

Would it be possible to get all of our food from local farms?

From Possibly | 03:38

Today, we’re digging into urban agriculture. Would it be possible to get all of our food from local farms?

Steve-adams-by_q4voduc0-unsplash_small Today, we’re digging into urban agriculture. Would it be possible to get all of our food from local farms?

What should I do with my pumpkin after Halloween?

From Possibly | 03:26

The weather is cooling, the leaves are changing, and all of my neighbors are putting pumpkins on their porches. It got me thinking, what is the environmental impact of all of these Jack O Lanterns?

Bee-felten-leidel-8reg2wikeug-unsplash_small The weather is cooling, the leaves are changing, and all of my neighbors are putting pumpkins on their porches. It got me thinking, what is the environmental impact of all of these Jack O Lanterns?

What’s the most energy efficient way to make my coffee?

From Possibly | 03:52

There are a lot of ways to make your morning coffee. You could use a French press, a drip machine, a machine with coffee pods…the list goes on and on. But which way creates the fewest greenhouse gas emissions?

Coffee_cup_small There are a lot of ways to make your morning coffee. You could use a French press, a drip machine, a machine with coffee pods…the list goes on and on. But which way creates the fewest greenhouse gas emissions?

Should I bring a reusable mug to the coffee shop?

From Possibly | 04:00

If you’re a coffee drinker like me, you might feel a little guilty about all those paper cups you end up tossing out when you visit a café.

But now that the pandemic is winding down, coffee shops like Starbucks are starting to let customers use their own cups again. So is it time for all of us to make the switch over to reusable coffee cups?

Reusablecup-_kelly-sikkema-unsplash_small If you’re a coffee drinker like me, you might feel a little guilty about all those paper cups you end up tossing out when you visit a café. But now that the pandemic is winding down, coffee shops like Starbucks are starting to let customers use their own cups again. So is it time for all of us to make the switch over to reusable coffee cups?

How do you recycle oyster shells?

From Possibly | 03:28

One of the great parts about living in the Ocean State is getting to eat fresh shellfish. But what happens to the shells after we slurp down those oysters? Possibly reporters and lifelong Rhode Islanders- Will Malloy and Iman Khanbhai looked into the options.

013024-possibly-shells_bywillmalloy_small One of the great parts about living in the Ocean State is getting to eat fresh shellfish. But what happens to the shells after we slurp down those oysters? Possibly reporters and lifelong Rhode Islanders- Will Malloy and Iman Khanbhai looked into the options.

Is cultivated meat coming to your plate?

From Possibly | 03:50

Growing, harvesting, and making food creates greenhouse gas emissions. But some foods are responsible for more emissions than others. Red Meat is at the top of the list. Lots of people want to reduce their emissions by eating more plants, but changing your eating habits can be hard.

So today, we’re taking a closer look at one idea of how we can drastically reduce the environmental impact of the meat we eat without actually changing our diets.

Ivy-farm-3x3pxgl-qow-unsplash_small Growing, harvesting, and making food creates greenhouse gas emissions. But some foods are responsible for more emissions than others. Red Meat is at the top of the list. Lots of people want to reduce their emissions by eating more plants, but changing your eating habits can be hard. So today, we’re taking a closer look at one idea of how we can drastically reduce the environmental impact of the meat we eat without actually changing our diets.


Home

Is Air Drying Your Clothes Worth It?

From Possibly | 03:13

Dryers do use a lot of energy. If you were to rank your household appliances by how much energy they use, your dryer would probably come in 3rd, right behind your heating/cooling system and your hot water heater.

Vidar-nordli-mathisen-avbsfpexxt8-unsplash_1__small Dryers do use a lot of energy. If you were to rank your household appliances by how much energy they use, your dryer would probably come in 3rd, right behind your heating/cooling system and your hot water heater.
If you dry 8 loads of laundry a week, you’re producing around the same amount of greenhouse gas emissions as driving 1200 miles in the average car. That's about 10% of what a typical Rhode Islander drives in a whole year! 

Of course, not using a dryer saves more energy than using one, but it’s not always easy to air-dry laundry. Try emptying your lint trap to make your dryer more efficient or just air dry some of your clothes. And the next time you’re buying appliances, buy a washer that extracts more water when it finishes a cycle or get a dryer with a sensor that turns off based on laundry dryness rather than a set time.

Should I use toilet paper or a bidet?

From Possibly | 03:50

If you haven’t used a bidet before, it looks pretty much like a toilet bowl with a tap on one side that gives you a rinse after you go. Bidets or some version of them are already used a lot in Europe, Latin America and some parts of Asia.

Toilet_paper_visuals-unsplash_small

Based on our measurements, Bidets use about 1/6 of a gallon of water for each trip to the bathroom.

Toilet paper is actually made using a fair amount of water. According to our estimates, it takes about 6 gallons of water to make one roll of toilet paper. 

So, which option is better? If you break water use down by each trip to the bathroom, bidets use about the same amount of water or less and they don’t waste trees. So, from an environmental and hygiene perspective, a bidet is the better choice. And if you’re low on toilet paper anyway, it might be worth it!

What's one thing kids can do to fight climate change?

From Possibly | 03:33

Today, we’re answering a question from Ada, a student from Bristol, Rhode Island. She wants to know the best thing kids can do at home to help stop climate change.

Andrea-davis-k8tlrne61dw-unsplash_small Today, we’re answering a question from Ada, a student from Bristol, Rhode Island. She wants to know the best thing kids can do at home to help stop climate change.

Do my clothes release harmful particles when I wash them?

From Possibly | 03:44

Today we have a question from Natalie Herbermann. She’s heard that when you put your clothes in the washing machine, they can leave behind harmful particles. And she’s wondering if there’s anything she can do about that.

Emily-chung-vx1k-q7f6im-unsplash_small Today we have a question from Natalie Herbermann. She’s heard that when you put your clothes in the washing machine, they can leave behind harmful particles. And she’s wondering if there’s anything she can do about that.

What kind of water heater should I buy?

From Possibly | 03:46

Today, we have a question from listener Tom Chun. Recently, his water heater stopped working. Tom didn’t have time to spare, so he just went with the water heater his plumber recommended.

But now, he’s wondering if he should have bought something else. Are there more efficient water heaters out there that are worth the price?

Water_heater_small Today, we have a question from listener Tom Chun. Recently, his water heater stopped working. Tom didn’t have time to spare, so he just went with the water heater his plumber recommended. But now, he’s wondering if he should have bought something else. Are there more efficient water heaters out there that are worth the price?

What happens when you use fertilizer on your lawn?

From Possibly | 03:54

What does it take to keep your lawn looking green and healthy? A lot of people say you need to use fertilizer. But do you really? And what’s the cost of using this stuff on our grass?

Petar-tonchev-c-5-qe5kbyk-unsplash_small What does it take to keep your lawn looking green and healthy? A lot of people say you need to use fertilizer. But do you really? And what’s the cost of using this stuff on our grass?

How do I ditch my lawn?

From Possibly | 04:00

Lawns can be beautiful and soft. But they’re pretty crappy when you evaluate them on really any other measure. Lawns waste water, they leak fertilizer into lakes and rivers… I could go on and on.

I know all of these things about lawns. But guess what? I still have one! That’s because I’m not sure what to do instead.

To find out, I drove down to Blue Moon Farm in Wakefield, Rhode Island.

Jane_small Lawns can be beautiful and soft. But they’re pretty crappy when you evaluate them on really any other measure. Lawns waste water, they leak fertilizer into lakes and rivers… I could go on and on. I know all of these things about lawns. But guess what? I still have one! That’s because I’m not sure what to do instead. To find out, I drove down to Blue Moon Farm in Wakefield, Rhode Island.

Eavesdropping on Possibly

From Possibly | 04:00

A few months ago, our team was talking on Zoom when our founder, Stephen Porder, asked if he could pitch a story idea. For this episode, we’re going to let you listen in on our conversation.

Spoiler alert: it's about showers in France.

Shower_small A few months ago, our team was talking on Zoom when our founder, Stephen Porder, asked if he could pitch a story idea. For this episode, we’re going to let you listen in on our conversation. Spoiler alert: it's about showers in France.

Should I ditch liquid detergent?

From Possibly | 03:55

Today we’re answering a question from Cori Myers- she’s the sister-in-law of our founder Stephen Porder. She wants to know if the laundry detergent sheets that she saw online are better than traditional liquid laundry detergent, which comes in a plastic jug.

Tina-bosse-wsw-taiyzpk-unsplash_small Today we’re answering a question from Cori Myers- she’s the sister-in-law of our founder Stephen Porder. She wants to know if the laundry detergent sheets that she saw online are better than traditional liquid laundry detergent, which comes in a plastic jug.

Do I need to rake my lawn?

From Possibly | 03:17

I have two huge trees in my yard and they dump a lot of leaves. Sometimes I wonder, what would happen if I just let those piles of leaves stay on the ground?

Hermes-rivera-bcuzpfe43qk-unsplash_small I have two huge trees in my yard and they dump a lot of leaves. Sometimes I wonder, what would happen if I just let those piles of leaves stay on the ground?

What should I do with clothing I don't want anymore?

From Possibly | 03:51

We all have those clothes that just sit in the back of our closets for years and never get used. Maybe it’s that t-shirt from college or that sentimental, but totally ugly scarf that grandma gave us for Christmas.

This week, we look into what to do with the clothing you don’t want anymore. 

Nick-de-partee-5dlboex99cs-unsplash_small We all have those clothes that just sit in the back of our closets for years and never get used. Maybe it’s that t-shirt from college or that sentimental, but totally ugly scarf that grandma gave us for Christmas. This week, we look into what to do with the clothing you don’t want anymore. 

What's a passive house?

From Possibly | 03:20

Recently, Rhode Island certified its first multi-family “Passive House.” What does that mean? And will we all live in one someday?

111721-32_small Recently, Rhode Island certified its first multi-family “Passive House.” What does that mean? And will we all live in one someday?

What do we do about methane leaks in our neighborhoods?

From Possibly | 03:47

We know methane is a really potent greenhouse gas, and in other episodes, we’ve talked about what the federal government is doing to crack down on industrial methane leaks. Today we’re bringing it closer to home.

We have Juliana Merullo and Harrison Katz here to talk to us about leaks in our neighborhoods.

Screen_shot_2023-04-18_at_10 We know methane is a really potent greenhouse gas, and in other episodes, we’ve talked about what the federal government is doing to crack down on industrial methane leaks. Today we’re bringing it closer to home. We have Juliana Merullo and Harrison Katz here to talk to us about leaks in our neighborhoods.

Why are we still worried about lead?

From Possibly | 03:36

Lead paint and leaded gasoline haven’t been used in American homes or cars for nearly 30 years. But, researchers say that these sources of lead are still an environmental hazard. But why?

020624-possibly-lead_courtesy_gabe_filippelli_small Lead paint and leaded gasoline haven’t been used in American homes or cars for nearly 30 years. But, researchers say that these sources of lead are still an environmental hazard. But why?

How do I recycle damaged clothes or fabrics?

From Possibly | 03:47

Today, we’re talking about textiles. What can you do with a ripped sweatshirt or pillowcase you accidentally bleached? We’re wondering – is it possible to recycle damaged clothes or fabrics?

Annie-spratt-5tfci4nj6b4-unsplash_small Today, we’re talking about textiles. What can you do with a ripped sweatshirt or pillowcase you accidentally bleached? We’re wondering – is it possible to recycle damaged clothes or fabrics?


Energy

What kind of holiday lights should I buy?

From Possibly | 03:43

Our own Fatima Husain was looking to buy holiday lights and she wondered— which type should I buy? Is there really a big difference between incandescent and LED lights?

Juliana-malta-nh7ohjepwus-unsplash_small Our own Fatima Husain was looking to buy holiday lights and she wondered— which type should I buy? Is there really a big difference between incandescent and LED lights?

What's the best way to get solar power?

From Possibly | 03:41

Today, we have a question from listener David Kellogg. He’s a big fan of solar power, but he wants to know, is it better to put solar panels on your roof, or to put your money towards large scale solar installations?

Zbynek-burival-v4zyjzj3w4m-unsplash_small Today, we have a question from listener David Kellogg. He’s a big fan of solar power, but he wants to know, is it better to put solar panels on your roof, or to put your money towards large scale solar installations?

What does net-zero really mean?

From Possibly | 03:37

If you follow the news about climate change, you’ve probably heard the phrase “net zero.” But what does “net zero” really mean?

Eta-rzoq5uqwwke-unsplash_small If you follow the news about climate change, you’ve probably heard the phrase “net zero.” But what does “net zero” really mean?

How do I get renewable energy for my home?

From Possibly | 03:28

How would you like to get all of your electricity from renewable sources? It turns out, you can, and you don’t even need to put panels on your roof to do it. Harrison Katz and Fatima Husain from our Possibly team looked into all the options.

Andreas-gucklhorn-ilpf2euppue-unsplash_small How would you like to get all of your electricity from renewable sources? It turns out, you can, and you don’t even need to put panels on your roof to do it. Harrison Katz and Fatima Husain from our Possibly team looked into all the options.

Should I buy electric power tools?

From Possibly | 03:56

Today, we have a question from listener Todd Penoyer. He does maintenance for retail shopping centers in southeastern Massachusetts and he uses a lot of power tools to do his job.

About half of his tools are electric, and the other half are gas-powered. He wonders whether it’s worth replacing the gas ones with electric versions.

Dave-simbosa-zmmj5s6txum-unsplash_small Today, we have a question from listener Todd Penoyer. He does maintenance for retail shopping centers in southeastern Massachusetts and he uses a lot of power tools to do his job. About half of his tools are electric, and the other half are gas-powered. He wonders whether it’s worth replacing the gas ones with electric versions.

Can you remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere?

From Possibly | 03:51

On our show, we talk a lot about how to reduce our carbon dioxide, or CO2, emissions. But some scientists are developing another approach to climate change — techniques to remove CO2 from the atmosphere.  

Miguel-a-amutio-bqgat1i0hvs-unsplash_small On our show, we talk a lot about how to reduce our carbon dioxide, or CO2, emissions. But some scientists are developing another approach to climate change — techniques to remove CO2 from the atmosphere.  

What can the US learn from France?

From Possibly | 04:00

We’re hearing a lot of talk about infrastructure here in the US. Depending on what happens in Congress, we could be spending billions or even trillions of dollars on everything from roads to high-speed trains.

But how do we spend this money in a way that makes it easier to combat climate change?

Our founder, Stephen Porder, who’s also the Provost of Sustainability at Brown University, has some ideas. He just got back from living in France for a year and he noticed some differences in the ways that country approaches energy and transportation.

Img_2906_small We’re hearing a lot of talk about infrastructure here in the US. Depending on what happens in Congress, we could be spending billions or even trillions of dollars on everything from roads to high-speed trains. But how do we spend this money in a way that makes it easier to combat climate change? Our founder, Stephen Porder, who’s also the Provost of Sustainability at Brown University, has some ideas. He just got back from living in France for a year and he noticed some differences in the ways that country approaches energy and transportation.

Why does Bitcoin use so much energy?

From Possibly | 04:00

When I say the word Bitcoin, what comes into your mind? Digital money? Expensive? How about energy hog? It turns out, the cryptocurrency uses A LOT of electricity.

Here to explain why are Luci Jones and Fatima Husain from our Possibly Team.

Bitcoin_logo_small When I say the word Bitcoin, what comes into your mind? Digital money? Expensive? How about energy hog? It turns out, the cryptocurrency uses A LOT of electricity. Here to explain why are Luci Jones and Fatima Husain from our Possibly Team.

How did Bhutan become carbon negative?

From Possibly | 03:53

These days, it’s popular for countries to make pledges about when they’ll be carbon neutral. But there’s one country that’s already there. Actually, it’s carbon negative!

Adli-wahid-a87rz-mjn_e-unsplash_small These days, it’s popular for countries to make pledges about when they’ll be carbon neutral. But there’s one country that’s already there. Actually, it’s carbon negative!

Do we use more or less energy on air conditioning than we used to?

From Possibly | 03:31

With the weather getting warmer, I’ve been thinking about air conditioning. I know that ACs are getting more efficient, but more people are using them too. So, are we using more or less energy on cooling our homes than we used to?

Carlos-lindner-53wcyh4ioig-unsplash_small With the weather getting warmer, I’ve been thinking about air conditioning. I know that ACs are getting more efficient, but more people are using them too. So, are we using more or less energy on cooling our homes than we used to?

How does our electricity grid work?

From Possibly | 04:00

With the effects of climate change all around us, there's a push to power more of our lives with renewable electricity, including things that used to burn fossil fuels, like home heating and cars.

But can our electricity grid handle a big ramp-up in demand?

Yuan-yang-i153-fxdv4i-unsplash_small With the effects of climate change all around us, there's a push to power more of our lives with renewable electricity, including things that used to burn fossil fuels, like home heating and cars. But can our electricity grid handle a big ramp-up in demand?

Can the grid handle charging lots of electric cars?

From Possibly | 03:41

Last week, we broke down the basics of how our electric grid works. Today, we're tackling a more specific question.

If we all switch over to electric cars, can the grid handle it?

Michael-fousert-t_d-vzju5su-unsplash_small Last week, we broke down the basics of how our electric grid works. Today, we're tackling a more specific question. If we all switch over to electric cars, can the grid handle it?

How do we store renewable energy?

From Possibly | 03:37

Today, we’re taking a look at how renewable energy, like wind or solar, is stored so it can be used when the sun’s not shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

Anders-j-hxucl0nusiy-unsplash_small Today, we’re taking a look at how renewable energy, like wind or solar, is stored so it can be used when the sun’s not shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

How do we store renewable energy?

From Possibly | 03:37

Today, we’re taking a look at how renewable energy, like wind or solar, is stored so it can be used when the sun’s not shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

Anders-j-hxucl0nusiy-unsplash_small Today, we’re taking a look at how renewable energy, like wind or solar, is stored so it can be used when the sun’s not shining or the wind isn’t blowing.

Does my charger still use power when it's not connected to a phone?

From Possibly | 03:59

Today, we have a question from Michael in Charlestown, Rhode Island. He wants to know: does a charger still use some power when it's plugged into an outlet but not connected to a phone or other device?

Steve-johnson-zuabnmumoca-unsplash_small Today, we have a question from Michael in Charlestown, Rhode Island. He wants to know: does a charger still use some power when it's plugged into an outlet but not connected to a phone or other device?

What's the environmental impact of living our lives online?

From Possibly | 03:25

Since the pandemic started, we’ve learned how to move our classes, meetings, and even parties online. It’s definitely convenient, but I’ve been wondering, how is all this extra time on the internet affecting our greenhouse gas emissions?

Gabriel-benois-qnwpjzewewa-unsplash_small Since the pandemic started, we’ve learned how to move our classes, meetings, and even parties online. It’s definitely convenient, but I’ve been wondering, how is all this extra time on the internet affecting our greenhouse gas emissions?

Does cloud computing use a lot of energy?

From Possibly | 04:01

These days, I can log on to my phone and pull up a file that’s stored thousands of miles away. It’s pretty awesome. But does access to all of this remote data use a lot of energy?

Dallas-reedy-h83_bxx3chy-unsplash_small These days, I can log on to my phone and pull up a file that’s stored thousands of miles away. It’s pretty awesome. But does access to all of this remote data use a lot of energy?

How did Rhode Island get the first offshore wind farm in the country?

From Possibly | 03:44

Today, we’re traveling to Block Island, the vacation spot off the southern coast of Rhode Island. Block Island is also famous for its offshore wind farm- the first of its kind in the entire nation. What did it take to make this project possible? And is it a success?

Offshorewind1_small Today, we’re traveling to Block Island, the vacation spot off the southern coast of Rhode Island. Block Island is also famous for its offshore wind farm- the first of its kind in the entire nation. What did it take to make this project possible? And is it a success?

Cryptocurrency uses a lot of energy. Does it have to?

From Possibly | 03:48

Public interest in cryptocurrencies has been on a bit of a rollercoaster over the past few years. But there’s one thing that hasn’t really changed- the massive amount of energy it takes to create them. But why? And does it have to be that way?

Art-rachen-qf1xtsigpqm-unsplash_small Public interest in cryptocurrencies has been on a bit of a rollercoaster over the past few years. But there’s one thing that hasn’t really changed- the massive amount of energy it takes to create them. But why? And does it have to be that way?

What is the US doing to reduce methane emissions?

From Possibly | 03:40

Normally when we talk about emissions, we’re talking about carbon dioxide. But recently there’s been more focus on another greenhouse gas, methane.

We had Juliana Merullo and Harrison Katz from our Possibly team look into what’s being done to reduce these emissions.

Fracking-699657_1280_small Normally when we talk about emissions, we’re talking about carbon dioxide. But recently there’s been more focus on another greenhouse gas, methane. We had Juliana Merullo and Harrison Katz from our Possibly team look into what’s being done to reduce these emissions.

What's the environmental impact of artificial snow?

From Possibly | 03:38

It’s ski season–but in recent years rising temperatures have made it harder for resorts in New England to rely on natural snow. Instead, they have to make it.

But what’s the environmental impact of all that artificial snow?

Michal-mrozek-akc4-l77idg-unsplash_small It’s ski season–but in recent years rising temperatures have made it harder for resorts in New England to rely on natural snow. Instead, they have to make it. But what’s the environmental impact of all that artificial snow?

What do we do about methane leaks in our neighborhoods?

From Possibly | 03:47

We know methane is a really potent greenhouse gas, and in other episodes, we’ve talked about what the federal government is doing to crack down on industrial methane leaks. Today we’re bringing it closer to home.

We have Juliana Merullo and Harrison Katz here to talk to us about leaks in our neighborhoods.

Screen_shot_2023-04-18_at_10 We know methane is a really potent greenhouse gas, and in other episodes, we’ve talked about what the federal government is doing to crack down on industrial methane leaks. Today we’re bringing it closer to home. We have Juliana Merullo and Harrison Katz here to talk to us about leaks in our neighborhoods.

There's no evidence offshore wind kills whales

From Possibly | 03:59

Rhode Island is the first state in the country to build an offshore wind farm, and there are plans for many more. But recently, opponents of wind energy have claimed offshore wind is harming whales and other marine mammals.

Is there any truth to these claims? To find out, we called Professor Andy Read, the director of Duke University’s Marine Lab.

Todd-cravens-lwacyk8scma-unsplash_small Rhode Island is the first state in the country to build an offshore wind farm, and there are plans for many more. But recently, opponents of wind energy have claimed offshore wind is harming whales and other marine mammals. Is there any truth to these claims? To find out, we called Professor Andy Read, the director of Duke University’s Marine Lab.

How can we get more energy from heat in the ground?

From Possibly | 03:59

We’ve used the Earth’s heat as an industrial energy source for over a century, but geothermal power only plays a minor role in our energy grid. Why? And is that about to change?

Stimulation-apr2022-fractanks_small We’ve used the Earth’s heat as an industrial energy source for over a century, but geothermal power only plays a minor role in our energy grid. Why? And is that about to change?

How much energy does it take to run ChatGPT?

From Possibly | 03:46

Everybody is talking about ChatGPT, the new machine-learning tool for answering questions. These giant computer models need a whole lot of computing power to run, so we were curious about just how much energy they use.

Mohamed-nohassi--0xmiyqmk8g-unsplash_small Everybody is talking about ChatGPT, the new machine-learning tool for answering questions. These giant computer models need a whole lot of computing power to run, so we were curious about just how much energy they use.

A group of young people in Montana sued the state for not taking climate change seriously. What happened at the trial?

From Possibly | Part of the A group of young people in Montana sued the state for not taking climate change seriously. What happened at the trial? series | 03:51

I’ve been hearing about this landmark climate case in Montana, where a group of young people sued the state, and won. How did they do it?

102423-possibly_dana_drugmand_credit_small I’ve been hearing about this landmark climate case in Montana, where a group of young people sued the state, and won. How did they do it?

Can we use the ocean as an energy source?

From Possibly | 03:49

At the beach, we’re supposed to watch out for strong tides. Our oceans are powerful places. Could they also be power sources?

120523-possibly_small At the beach, we’re supposed to watch out for strong tides. Our oceans are powerful places. Could they also be power sources?

What does the future of natural gas look like in Rhode Island?

From Possibly | Part of the What does a Public Utilities Commission have to do with climate change? series | 03:52

It’s getting colder, and a lot of people are turning on their furnaces. Many of those run on “natural” gas, which is basically methane, a potent greenhouse gas. So, what do we do about these emissions?

120523-possibly-gas1_small It’s getting colder, and a lot of people are turning on their furnaces. Many of those run on “natural” gas, which is basically methane, a potent greenhouse gas. So, what do we do about these emissions?

What does the future of natural gas look like in Rhode Island? Part 2

From Possibly | Part of the What does a Public Utilities Commission have to do with climate change? series | 03:39

Today, we’re continuing our coverage of the future of energy in Rhode Island. Since the state burns too much natural gas to reach net-zero by 2050, it’s time to change our relationship to that energy source – but how?

Futuregasdocket_ep2-photo_small Today, we’re continuing our coverage of the future of energy in Rhode Island. Since the state burns too much natural gas to reach net-zero by 2050, it’s time to change our relationship to that energy source – but how?