Chautauqua Science Group Weekly Lecture

John D. Atkinson is an environmental engineering professor at the University at Buffalo, where he created the University’s most popular study abroad course and has been recognized as an Early Career Teacher of the Year, Outstanding Director, Experiential Learning Faculty Fellow, and Best Undergraduate Mentor.

His work is driven by an overarching desire to more sustainably produce and consume, resulting in a diverse portfolio of publications and seminars. With on-going funding from New York State and the U.S. National Science Foundation, as well as local industry, he is currently researching within the broad field of waste management, using life cycle analysis tools to investigate plastics and tire recycling, waste disposal options, and energy recovery. His work targets real-world problems that impact everyday life, aiming to make engineering more thoughtful and accessible.

Atkinson emboldens lifestyle changes that promote sustainability. He encourages his students to expand their comfort zones, holistically problem solve, and embrace their creativity through engineering design.​

He received a BS in Chemistry from the University of Illinois in 2007, a MS in Environmental Engineering in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois in 2009 and a Ph.D in Environmental Engineering in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois (UIUC) in 2013.

Bird, Tree & Garden Club lunchtime lecture series

In this combined presentation and book launch, Rachael will first share stories about the consequences of the Era of Disposability and innovative ways to address them. These will be based on Rachael and her team’s own experiences working around the world to address marine debris and are stories she has not yet told at Chautauqua! This presentation will include a new audience-participation game called “Source or Sink?!”

In the second part of the program, Rachael will officially launch Decision-Making in the Age of Plastics: Kitchens! This book follows the same choose-your-own-adventure style as book one launched last year here at Chautauqua but is dedicated to reducing your and your family’s exposure to microplastics and associated chemicals in your kitchen. The products in book 2 include: cutting boards, utensils, cookware, sponges, dishcloths and scrubbers as well as items used to make tea, coffee and hot drinks.

Following the talk/book launch and questions, there will be a book signing, with books available for purchase on-site. Both books, as well as Cora Balls will also be available at the Bookstore.

Rachael Zoe Miller is a National Geographic Explorer, inventor, author and Explorers Club Fellow working to protect the ocean through expedition-based science, conservation and storytelling.

She is the founder of Rozalia Project for a Clean Ocean, a nonprofit addressing marine debris; co-inventor of the Cora Ball, the world’s first microfiber-catching laundry ball; creator of CSI for the Ocean, a global citizen science microplastic mapping and monitoring program; and author of “Decision-Making in the Age of Plastics.”