Building materials contribute an estimated 5 to 15 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Imagine using materials that not only require less carbon to produce but also actively capture and

Building materials contribute an estimated 5 to 15 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Imagine using materials that not only require less carbon to produce but also actively capture and store it. In California, architect Dylan Johnson and Yvon Chouinard, alongside a seasoned crew, constructed two houses using straw bales that would otherwise have gone to waste.

This innovative project demonstrates that natural building isn’t just better for the climate—it’s a superior way to build. Watch "Home, Grown" to learn more. For additional content and to connect with Patagonia, subscribe here, visit their official site and stories, or find them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Jon Bowermaster, a National Geographic grantee and "Ocean Hero," is a renowned writer, filmmaker, and adventurer. He has authored eleven books and directed over thirty documentaries, including

Jon Bowermaster, a National Geographic grantee and "Ocean Hero," is a renowned writer, filmmaker, and adventurer. He has authored eleven books and directed over thirty documentaries, including *Dear President Obama*. His global Oceans 8 project involved ten years of sea kayaking to report on ocean health.

Currently, Bowermaster leads the One Ocean Media Foundation and is a visiting lecturer at Bard College. His team's focus is the Hudson River Stories project, a series of short films examining environmental risks and hopes for the Hudson River Valley, the birthplace of the American environmental movement. He also hosts *The Green Radio Hour* podcast.

For more on the project, visit hudsonriverstories.com.

Astrophysicist Jill Tarter, who inspired Jodie Foster's character in *Contact*, dedicated her career to the search for extraterrestrial life. She now directs the Center for SETI Research at the

Astrophysicist Jill Tarter, who inspired Jodie Foster's character in *Contact*, dedicated her career to the search for extraterrestrial life. She now directs the Center for SETI Research at the SETI Institute in Mountain View, California.

Her path wasn't easy. After losing a scholarship despite excellent grades, Tarter appealed to Dean Corson. He agreed it was unfair and, after contacting Procter & Gamble, reinstated her funding.

Two decades later, Tarter, serving on President Corson's advisory committee at Cornell, personally thanked him for his belief and support.

Calling someone an "animal" often implies they are less than human, undeserving of respect or rights. Yet, biologically, humans are animals.

Scientists increasingly find intelligence and

Calling someone an "animal" often implies they are less than human, undeserving of respect or rights. Yet, biologically, humans are animals.

Scientists increasingly find intelligence and consciousness prevalent across nature. This understanding demands we rethink what it truly means to be an animal.

Visionary naturalist Carl Safina suggests that understanding other species begins with observation and humility.

For more information, visit carlsafina.org.