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What belongs in your recycling bin, and what can put workers, trucks, and equipment at risk? Jenny Johnson and Thomas Brackett of Republic Services share common recycling mistakes, explain their advanced full‑service recycling processing center, and preview a new partnership with Citizen Action Alliance offering free recycling for Colorado Springs residents. Ally Richardson hosts. We also learn why clean, dry recyclables matter, which items contaminate the system, and why batteries must never go into any bin. Republic Services will be lighting up a truck at this year's Colorado Springs Festival of Lights Parade, taking place Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 5:50 PM on Tejon Street in downtown Colorado Springs. Resources Mentioned: Republic Service’s Colorado Springs Full‑Service Recycling Processing Center Republic Service’s Recycling Basics Republic Service’s Las Vegas Polymer Center Colorado’s Extended Producer Responsibility program through Circular Action Alliance (CAA) CAA was approved through the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment Got Lithium Batteries? Lithium batteries cannot be placed in your recycle or trash bin! Recycle FREE at the El Paso County Hazardous Waste Facility Got Metal Scraps? Recycle FREE with Urban Recyclers Upcoming Programs offered by Pikes Peak Permaculture: Permaculture Design Course 2027 Interested in living more sustainably? This certification course is 10 weekends together to build a hands-on foundation of permaculture knowledge and experience to become better equipped for the future. Pikes Peak Permaculture is now accepting registrations for our next course that will be starting in March 2027. Work trade and financial aid available. Have questions? See our website or reach out, we’re happy to help you make an informed decision. Be on the lookout for a FREE Fall/Winter Intro to Permaculture class series! Want to be on Pikes Peak Permaculture’s newsletter? Contact us. This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Colorado is the first state to try to get a fossil fuel protected in the constitution. But why? Ally Richardson from Pikes Peak Permaculture, Ciara Guerrero from 350 Colorado, and Jim Lockhart from the Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club, took the stage at COATI Uprise in downtown Colorado Springs to discuss the proposed constitutional amendment 82 during Studio 809 Podcasts’ Our Voice, Our Future: Get Out the Vote Podcast Marathon. Answer to LIVE audience question: Q: Who wrote/pushed for ballot initiative 177? A: Nonprofit Advance Colorado organized the petition drive and campaign to place the measure on the 2026 Colorado ballot. For information pertaining to organizations supporting and opposing measures on this November's ballot, visit the Colorado Secretary of State’s website: Amendments and Propositions on the 2026 Ballot Mentioned in this Episode: Colorado Air Pollution Control Division 2024-2025 Air Quality Control Commission Annual Report to the Public EPA’s Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards Air Now - Your one-stop source for air quality data Plug In Solar - legal in Colorado under HB 26‑1007, which took effect on August 12, 2026, allowing UL‑certified plug‑in systems up to 1,920W AC without utility pre‑approval. Amendment 82: Colorado voters will decide whether to put right to natural gas in state constitution The Colorado Sun article by Mark Jaffe “Crested Butte is the first Colorado municipality to require that all new residential and commercial buildings be powered entirely by electricity, banning natural gas for heating, hot water, and most appliances.” The Colorado Sun article by Jason Blevins Upcoming Programs offered by Pikes Peak Permaculture: Permaculture Design Course 2027 Interested in living more sustainably? This certification course is 10 weekends together to build a hands-on foundation of permaculture knowledge and experience to become better equipped for the future. Pikes Peak Permaculture is now accepting registrations for our next course that will be starting in March 2027. Work trade and financial aid available. Have questions? See our website or reach out, we're happy to help you make an informed decision. More information here. Be on the lookout for FREE Fall/Winter Intro to permaculture class series! Want to be on Pikes Peak Permaculture's newsletter? Reach out here This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Open source may have begun in the world of software, but today it’s reshaping how we think about repair culture, circular economies, and living within nature’s boundaries. Ally Richardson and Frank Cordova explore how shared knowledge can reconnect us with ecological limits and empower communities to practice meaningful environmental stewardship. If you’re ready to rethink waste & repair, and help build a regenerative future, this conversation offers a clear path forward. Resources Mentioned: Guest Frank Cordova’s Website: osl8.life CreativeCommons.org Opensourceecology.org Opensoure.com Red Hat Enterprises- Linux Distribution for Large Company Support BSD Unnex Wordpress for Website Building Open Source Browser – Firefox Linnux Zorin Linux Mint Fedora Linux Nobara Linux Right To Repair Article Davinci Resolve CDPHE Solid waste management data and reports found here Repair Café. Pikes Peak Library District 21C Upcoming Events: Pikes Peak Permaculture will be making seedballs at these two family friendly kid’s events: 2026 Cool Science Carnival Day OCTOBER 3, 2026 Visit www.coolscience.org for all the activities that day and beyond! 2026 Fall Fest at First & Main October 10th, 2026 from 11am to 3pm Visit firstandmaintowncenter.com/2026-fall-fun-fest/ Permaculture Design Certification Course Pikes Peak Permaculture is now accepting registrations for our next permaculture design course! We will be starting in March 2027. Work trade and financial aid available. Have questions? See our website or reach out, we're happy to help you make an informed decision. Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org/permaculture-design-course/ This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Our city banned graywater at a time when water is our limiting factor, and this year it’s impossible to ignore. What is graywater? It is the gently used water from laundry, bathroom sinks, and showers that can be reused to nourish landscapes instead of being sent straight to the sewer. Host Ally Richardson and Joe Petsche explore what it means to live in step with nature’s boundaries and why Colorado Springs must adopt smarter, regenerative water strategies now. They also dive into how graywater can cut costs, ease infrastructure strain, and build a resilient future for our region. Join the movement for a water wise city by signing the petition! Visit peacheswater.com Mentioned In This Episode: Colorado passed graywater legislation in 2015, allowing jurisdictions to adopt or opt out. CDPHE Reg. 86 - Graywater Control Since January 1, 2026, Colorado Springs residents are banned from reusing their own laundry and shower water on their plants. Peacheswater.com is rallying support to reverse the ban and restore simple, safe graywater reuse. Add your name to the petition and urge City Council to bring graywater back. Colorado Springs Ordinance 25-99, prohibiting the use of graywater El Paso County Resolution No. 25-342 Resolution Prohibiting Graywater Use In Unincorporated El Paso County and Directing Further Analysis of a Possible Future Graywater Use Program Adoption of Chaffee County Graywater Listen to Peak Environment Episode #152 Biochar Graywater Research: Removal of anionic surfactant from aqueous solutions by adsorption onto biochars: characterisation, kinetics, and mechanism Greywater Treatment Using Activated Biochar Produced from Agricultural Waste Escherichia coli Removal in Biochar-Modified Biofilters: Effects of Biofilm Laundry To Landscape Classes DPHE has partnered with Red Rocks Community College to bring laundry to landscape classes to all Denver residents and individuals who work in the City and County of Denver. Lakewood, Colorado 10/19/2026 – 10/20/2026 Course Cost - $495 Fee *The full cost of this course is eligible for a rebate for individuals who live, work or attend higher education courses in Denver. Visit the Green Jobs Training Rebates webpage for more information. Registration Info here Veda "Water is the rebel element, it won't conform to the laws of physics or gravity and it can't be killed. Without it there is no life. It reincarnates for all to see and science tells us it came to Earth from outer space. Rebellious, nonconformist, eternal and alien.....just look at the power we are filled with." Veda Austin Dr Emoto Interested in learning more about permaculture? Visit pikespeakpermaculture.org to learn more about our programs, including… Permaculture In Action Summer Tour Series See several local landscapes which have been practicing permaculture design. This unique opportunity allows you to see various stages of implementation over many sites. Register Here 2027 Permaculture Design Course Take a deeper dive and come learn together with us as community. Register for Course Here This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future Pikes Peak Permaculture 350 Colorado Springs GrowthBusters Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Project Taurus is a proposed data center near Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Multiple community groups have filed appeals to the city’s administrative approval of the project. Where to from here? Ciara and Riss from 350 Colorado Springs discuss. In a time of alternative facts as well as the ability to buy credibility and manipulate human behavior, how do we go about fighting extractive, ecological monstrosities in our communities? These fights are proving to be Place-based and contextual, so Ciara and Riss begin with a part of the wider picture. Mentioned in the Episode: ● Raeden: https://raeden.com/ ● Residents appeal approval of data center in Colorado Springs: https://www.cpr.org/2026/06/24/data-center-colorado-springs-approval-appeal/ ● Bruno Latour: https://www.bruno-latour.fr/books_and_edited_volumes.html ● The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: https://shoshanazuboff.com/book/about/ ● Denver data center moratorium: https://www.denver7.com/follow-up/denver-city-council-unanimously-approves-one-year-moratorium-on-new-data-center-construction ● PuebloPlex: https://krdo.com/news/2026/03/31/weapons-facility-development-underway-in-southern-colorado/ ● Honor the Earth: https://www.honorearth.org/stopdatacolonialism Energy & Environment Committee Hearing dated 5/7/26 Colorado State House Reps we heard from, in order of appearance: ● Alex Valdez (Bill Sponsor of HB1030) ● Scott Slaugh ● Junie Joseph ● Dan Woog Action Items Email Daniel Sexton, the city planner at [email protected] Email city council at [email protected] Contact county commissioners: https://citizenconnect-portal.elpasoco.com/FrontPortal/Page/RenderPage?tabId=7&searchParameter=srTypeId=4 Sign open letter to Mayor Yemi: https://www.change.org/p/open-letter-to-colorado-springs-mayor-yemi-mobolade-about-data-center-proposal Attend City Council meetings every other Tues. and make public comment Find upcoming city council meeting dates here: https://coloradosprings.gov/node/154591: Attend Colorado Springs Utilities Board meetings and use your voice. Find upcoming CSU board meeting dates here: https://www.csu.org/about/leadership/utilities-board Attend Anti Data Center Action hours every other Thurs. at Penrose Library in downtown Colorado Springs - free parking with a PPLD library card. We’ll be in the Pine room at 5:45-6:45. July 2nd, 16th, 30th. Aug. 14th and 28th. Follow some of the Project Taurus organizers on social media: ● No Data Center COS: https://www.instagram.com/no_data_center_cos/ ● Zuri: https://www.instagram.com/zurihorowitz/ ● Landon @landonliveslife: https://www.instagram.com/landonliveslife/ ● Integrity Matters: https://www.facebook.com/IntegrityMattersCOS/ ● Colorado Springs DSA: https://www.instagram.com/cospringsdsa/ ● 350 Colorado Springs: https://www.instagram.com/350coloradosprings/ This episode of Peak Environment was contributed by 350 Colorado Springs, https://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/ a grassroots environmental group focused on addressing the climate crisis in the city we call home, moving away from fossil fuels and building resilience for future generations. Ciara Guerrero is a Team Coordinator for 350 Colorado Springs. After getting her foot in the door of big tech a decade ago and seeing behind the curtain, she was moved toward different path. She’s a student at Pikes Peak Permaculture https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/ and is a gardener and an environmental organizer in the Springs area. Riss Banuelos is a Youth Organizer for 350 Colorado Springs. She is currently finishing her bachelor’s in anthropology at Colorado College, has been part of Sunrise Movement, and has been lucky enough to attend two United Nations’ climate COPs where her commitment to climate grew stronger and more inspired. The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ https://350colorado.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Need to know where to take items like metals and electronics? Look to Colorado Industrial Recycling and ITAD Electronics for your needs. These businesses help make our region more sustainable and resilient by recycling challenging items. Want your business to be more resilient? Check out the Colorado Green Business Network! They offer free information and assistance to help your business to reduce energy, water and waste, save money, and thrive. Host Mary Barber welcomes Bryan Valentine of ITAD Electronics Recyclers, Andy O’Riley of Colorado Industrial Recycling, and Konrad Schlarbaum of the Colorado Green Business Network for this May/June Sustainability in Progress discussion. LINKS: ITAD Electronics Recyclers: https://www.ierpro.com Colorado Industrial Recycling, Inc: https://www.coloradoindustrialrecycling.com Colorado Green Business Network: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/dehs/sustainability/cgbn Sustainability in Progress is a program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ 350 Colorado Springs https://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Wildfire seasons are intensifying, but what if the very fuels driving these fires could become part of the solution? In this episode, firefighter and regenerative farmer Will Vogl, Douglas County Environmental Inspections Supervisor Jared Tanaka, and Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Becky Elder and Ally Richardson explore the growing role of biochar in building climate resilience. Douglas County’s new biochar facility is projected to be complete in 2026 and is poised to benefit not only its own community but neighboring counties as well. It offers a forward‑looking model for land management and wildfire mitigation along the Front Range, reminding us that wildfires do not stop at county lines. Mentioned in this episode: Douglas County Biochar Facility Open House Discussion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T32CCRhMLyc&t=3146s Douglas County residents can dispose of “Green Yard Waste” at the County’s Slash/Mulch site at 5675 Delva Way in Sedalia. This is a NEW location for the 2026 season. https://www.douglasco.gov/public-works/green-yard-waste/ Black Forest Slash and Mulch Program for El Paso County residents: https://communityresources.elpasoco.com/environmental-division/black-forest-slash-mulch/ Vogl Homestead Regenerative Farm in El Paso County, Colorado: https://www.facebook.com/VoglHomesteadFarming/ Complete Solutions. Biochar Funding Company for feedstock handing equipment, chippers and grinders: https://csc-int.ca/ Wilson Biochar, LLC. Ring of Fire Kiln which can be assembled in field: https://wilsonbiochar.com/ Pueblo’s SUN SOIL WATER SUMMIT Keynote Speaker John Christenson of Native Lumber: https://pueblofoodproject.org/sunsoilwater/ Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Upcoming Events: May 3rd, Tending Points of Light in the “Long Dark” with Carolyn Baker. Sign-up here: https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/event/tending-points-of-light-in-the-long-dark-with-carolyn-baker/ MeadowGrass Festival May 22nd through May 24th https://www.eventbrite.com/e/17th-annual-meadowgrass-music-festival-tickets-1977435259091?aff=oddtdtcreator Earth School for 2026/2027. Currently enrolling for our homeschool enrichment program beginning this August, tuition FREE for ages 9-13. Find out more about this program here: https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/ppp-earth-school/ Help us fund a living classroom to be built this summer, where we will grow a more resilient community. Donations include access to our summer permaculture‑in‑action tours. https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/donations/ This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ 350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/ GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Everything you ever wanted to know about our home watershed. Hear about water supply and conservation, creek restoration, the regional trail, and the upcoming Great American Cleanup. This is a Sustainability in Progress presentation from Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Host: Mary Barber Guests: Alli Schuch, Executive Director, Fountain Creek Watershed District Mary Wilson, Outreach Coordinator On the table in this episode: Water supply Water conservation Reducing nonfunctional turf, adding native plants to conserve water and support restoration and wildlife (especially pollinators) Stewardship of Fountain Creek Creek restoration Brewshed Alliance and Liquid Lectures Fountain Creek Watershed Great American Cleanup Creek Week in the Fall Hydration celebrations after cleanups Fountain Creek Regional Trail Scoop the Poop Both crew leader and group registration are open for the Great American Cleanup. Volunteers can register up to May 2, and even on site on May 2: https://www.fountain-crk.org/great-american-cleanup-f0de636 LINKS: The Future of Fountain Creek – Panel and Community Discussion – episode 135 of Peak Environment: https://studio809podcasts.com/future-of-fountain-creek-panel/ State of the Watershed Summit: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcq7pJhVKqDhXPwCeyRROogdUI6r6Bv_l&si=qdauhTlDenfyn9sr Purchase a rain barrel from the watershed district: https://www.fountain-crk.org/rain-barrel-sale Fountain Creek Watershed District: Website: https://www.fountain-crk.org/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@fountaincreekwatersheddistrict Events Calendar: https://www.fountain-crk.org/event-calendar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fountaincreekwatershed Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FountainCreekWatershedDistrict/ This episode was recorded as a Sustainability in Progress (SIP) episode of the podcast. Sustainability in Progress is a program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors: Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking. The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

How does a small garden club grow into a powerful driver of community resilience? Host Ally Richardson and leaders from the Manitou Springs Garden Club explore how plant sales, community grants, and hands‑on education strengthen our local ecosystems. Their work shows how simple, community‑rooted actions can create lasting impact. As Bill Mollison reminds us, “Though the problems of the world are increasingly complex, the solutions remain embarrassingly simple.” Manitou Garden Club Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ManitouSpringsGardenClub Join their plant sale on Sunday, May 24th, from 9AM to noon at the pool parking lot of Schryver Park, 202 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs Come help out at April’s club meeting and see if the garden club is your flavor. Then, join! They meet every second Thursday of every month at the Community Congregational Church (except for special club member Summer months in member’s gardens). City of Manitou Springs Tree Voucher Program: https://cityofmanitousprings-parksandrec.app.transform.civicplus.com/forms/22690 Colorado Spring’s Grow Shade Together, the City's Neighborhood Tree Planting Program: https://coloradosprings.gov/GrowShadeTogether Recommended Reading: The Wild Wisdom of Weeds - by Katrina Blair BIG OL EARTH DAY CELEBRATION! https://www.concretecouch.org/ Community orgs collaborating to Celebrate Mother Earth, connect people of all ages with nature and support the ongoing land restoration at Concrete Coyote Community Park! Wednesday, April 22·12:00 – 6:00pm, 1100 S Royer St, Colorado Springs, CO This episode is brought to you by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at pikespeakpermaculture.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ 350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/ GrowthBusters: https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Colorado Springs Utilities wants to delay closing its last coal-fired powerplant. CSU is currently obligated under its clean energy plan to close its Ray Nixon plant by the end of 2029 in order to meet a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2030. It claims the extension is necessary because it is too costly to meet the current deadline. Learn about proposed legislation that would allow the plant to continue operating up to an extra ten years, and why many environmental groups oppose it. This episode’s guests: Jim Lockhart, conservation chair of Pikes Peak Group of Sierra Club Ciara Guerrero, Colorado Springs team coordinator for 350 Colorado Olivia West, environmental organizer for Sierra Club and Green Corps LEARN MORE: Colorado Springs Utilities Enlists State Lawmakers To Keep Ray Nixon Power Plant Running Into 2030 – CPR news story: https://www.cpr.org/2026/01/13/colorado-springs-ray-nixon-power-plant-legislation/ Update on the Nixon Plant Decommission – Sierra Club update: https://www.sierraclub.org/colorado/pikes-peak/february-2026#:~:text=Update%20on%20the%20Nixon%20Plant%20Decommission&text=CSU%20is%20currently%20obligated%20under,emissions%20by%2080%25%20by%202030 SB26-022 - Challenge Meeting 2030 Emissions Reduction Goals: https://leg.colorado.gov/bill_files/110720/download Clean Energy for Colorado Petition: https://forms.gle/9eiwmh52x463DJuz9 HB26-1030 - Data Center & Utility Modernization: https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb26-1030 350 Colorado Springs: https://350colorado.org/colorado-springs/ Pikes Peak Group of the Sierra Club: https://www.sierraclub.org/colorado/pikes-peak Subscribe to Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future Email Updates: https://peakalliance.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8b6c85fea7b70fac39688c409&id=bbba41d918 The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ https://350colorado.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

What if ten weekends could change the way you see your land, your home, and your future? Host Ally Richardson interviews three recent graduates of the 2025 Permaculture Design Certification Course where they share the moments that surprised them, the skills that reshaped their thinking, and the unexpected community they found along the way. Before you hire a landscaper, hear what a PDC can unlock. Step into your power and shape the land for good! Mentioned in this episode: 2026 Permaculture Design Course Register here: https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/2025-permaculture-design-course/ Pikes Peak Permaculture’s PDC follows the Permaculture Institute of North America curriculum and meets the 72 hour certification standard. The course emphasizes ethics, principles, whole systems thinking, and collaborative site design. The program runs 10 weekends from February to August across Southern Colorado, with a few regional field trips. Lunches are prepared by students on rotation, with snacks provided. Children may attend with prior discussion. Work trade options and financial aid are available. Few spots left, so sign-up today! This episode was produced by Pikes Peak Permaculture, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to teaching the ethics and principles of permaculture design in Southern Colorado. Permaculture is all about working with nature rather than against, to regenerate land, water, and food systems, and build resilient communities for generations to come. Learn more about their work with schools, organizations, and community members at https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

ERC helps cut wasted energy consumption through energy-efficient home upgrades, now available to all households in their 27-county service area, regardless of income level. Upgrades are free to income-qualifying households. ERC collectively saves $300,000 in utility bills each year by upgrading about 2,000 homes. Energy Resource Center Director of Programs Mike Mazzola fills us in on what ERC can do for you. LINKS: Sustainability & Resiliency Info and Networking Survey: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69 Energy Resource Center: https://erc-co.org Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Shrinking your holiday footprint on the planet can seem daunting – but this episode offers tips to make it a joy. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future (PASF) is deviating from the norm this month. Instead of the usual live, third Wednesday Zoom event, the November Sustainability in Progress is this pre-recorded studio conversation. This conversation is about the holidays, discovering local resources to give meaningful and lifelong gifts to reduce waste. Host Mary Barber of PASF is joined by Ally Richardson of Pikes Peak Permaculture and Dave Gardner of GrowthBusters (both are regular co-producers of the Studio 809 Podcasts Peak Environment podcast). We’re considering making some changes in SIP, and we’re inviting collaboration. Help Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future and the entire sustainability/resiliency community make plans for 2026. Please take this poll: https://forms.gle/aJCcs4Lv9ZAVk6E69 LINKS MENTIONED:  Pikes Peak Bulletin Winter Holiday Calendar with local-maker markets: https://pikespeakbulletin.org/events/2025-winter-holiday-calendar-events-and-markets-in-the-spirit-of-the-season/ Colorado Springs Mom winter markets calendar: https://cospringsmom.com/parenting-wisdom/winter-markets-in-colorado-springs/ Downtown Shopping Gift Card: https://downtowncs.com/event/shop-local-win-local/ Resource Central Garden in a Box:  https://resourcecentral.org/gardens/ Center for Biological Diversity’s Simplify The Holidays Helpful Tips: https://simplifytheholidays.org/ So Kind Gift Registry: https://sokindregistry.org/ Who Gives a Scrap for the crafty: https://whogivesascrapcolorado.com/ Volunteer with the City of Colorado Springs: https://hr.coloradosprings.gov/VolunteerOpportunities Find opportunities at Flying Pig Farm, community farm practicing permaculture and building resilience: https://flyingpigmanitou.org/ Divert waste with Galvanize Recycling:  https://www.galvanizerecycling.com/services/ El Paso County Hazardous Waste Facility: https://communityresources.elpasoco.com/household-hazardous-waste/ Compost with Food To Power: https://foodtopowerco.org/ Other holiday-related podcast episodes we mentioned: Sustainable Holiday - Peak Environment episode #66 Have Yourself A Low Impact Holiday - Peak Environment episode #112 Plastic Bags Update & Moving Toward Zero Waste: Policy Wins, Advice and Resources - Peak Environment episode #115 Rebelling Against Black Friday Consumerism - GrowthBusters podcast episode #61 Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors: Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking. The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at https://peakallianceco.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Energy rates are changing, and so is the demand. Pikes Peak Permaculture’s Ally Richardson, frequent producer and cohost of the Peak Environment podcast, shares practical ways we can reduce energy use and rethink consumption. She’s joined by panelists Becky Elder (a permaculture instructor) and Scott Harvey (a structural and electrical engineer). They delve into the current state of energy usage in the Pikes Peak region, examine the primary sources of energy and identify the sectors that consume the most. They also explore the factors driving changes in energy rates and demand, providing us with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face. Feel empowered to take action towards a more sustainable and resilient future. This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) event on October 14, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. You can view a video recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY The October meeting was presented by Pikes Peak Permaculture, which is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to teaching principles and practices of permaculture design in the Southern Colorado region. The organization educates about working with nature instead of against it, building stronger connections with our landscape and all inhabitants, regenerating land, water, and food systems, and making sure our region thrives for generations to come.  Mentioned in this episode:   Colorado Energy Savings Navigator: https://puc.colorado.gov/energy-savings Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): https://cdhs.colorado.gov/leap Colorado’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP):  https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/weatherization-assistance-program Project Cope. Donation based fund for community members utility bill assistance in time of crisis and emergencies:  https://projectcopecs.org/ The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's 2030 Sustainability Plan (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors: Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking. Subscribe to receive email notice of news and events: https://peakalliance.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8b6c85fea7b70fac39688c409&id=bbba41d918 The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.

Unite Your World with the Arts! Some people might think that the concept of sustainability means only environmental sustainability. While sustainability does include nature and the environment, it also encompasses society or community, economy, and individual well-being. Arts and culture represents one aspect of social sustainability that sustains and improves our quality of life, which we explore through the region's leader in arts and culture, the Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region. Angela Seals, Executive Director of COPPR, provides an update on the 10-year cultural plan for the Pikes Peak Region: Arts Vision 2030. Ms. Seals tells us about October Arts Month activities and initiatives around the region coming in October. The Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region (a.k.a. COPPR) is the nonprofit local arts agency that serves the City of Colorado Springs and the greater Pikes Peak region (El Paso and Teller Counties). The Cultural Office works to ensure that the creative sector grows in economic vitality and depth of impact, that creative workers can thrive in our community, and that the arts are leveraged to positively address regional economic development, education, cultural tourism, and quality of life. Angela Seals is a creative leader, project manager, public programs designer, and speaker with 20 years of experience working at arts nonprofits. She has worked with the Cultural Office in a variety of roles since 2013. Angela has built a reputation for dynamic and collaborative impact across her career in Colorado Springs and at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust / Pittsburgh Dance Council, Carnegie Mellon University, and the Corcoran College of Art + Design in Washington, D.C. She has been honored with awards for her service to the field, including the 2024 Women of Influence Award from Colorado Springs Business Journal and the 2022 Juneteenth Community Award from Pikes Peak Diversity Council. LINKS: October - Arts Month, download digital passport: https://artsoctober.com/ Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region: https://www.culturaloffice.org/ Peak Radar: https://peakradar.com/ Arts Vision 2030: https://www.culturaloffice.org/artsvision2030/ Concrete Couch: https://www.concretecouch.org/ Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts: https://www.smokebrush.org/ Smokebrush Farm: https://www.facebook.com/smokebrushfarm Visit Colorado Springs: https://www.visitcos.com/ This episode was recorded at the Sustainability in Progress (SIP) virtual event on September 17, 2025. Sustainability in Progress is a monthly program of the Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us (free) the third Wednesday of every month. The next event is: Bright Idea: Conserving Energy October Sustainability in Progress Hosted by Pikes Peak Permaculture Join virtually or in person October 15th, Noon to 1:15 In-person at UCCS Downtown, 102 S. Tejon Street, Colorado Springs Virtually on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX1btxPC1BY Thanks to these Peak Environment sponsors: Pikes Peak Permaculture Visit https://pikespeakpermaculture.org/.org for opportunities to learn more about sustainable organic living through permaculture – workshops, classes, field trips, and networking. The mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's (PPR2030) https://peakallianceco.org/rsp/ through regional collaboration and outreach. Connect with us at peakallianceco.org The following environment/sustainability organizations in the Pikes Peak region collaborate to produce the Peak Environment podcast about environmental stewardship, sustainable living and enlightened public policy in the Pikes Peak Region. Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future https://peakallianceco.org/ Pikes Peak Permaculture https://www.pikespeakpermaculture.org/ GrowthBusters https://www.growthbusters.org Keep up with all the organizations and events making our area a better place to live. Follow on your favorite podcast app so you don't miss an episode.