Julie Travaglini: Sustainable Landscaping – Responsible Use & Environmental Care | On the House #35

In this episode, host Gabriella Joustra is joined by Julie Travaglini, Senior Director of Education and Curriculum at Allegheny Land Trust

In the pursuit of picturesque landscapes, the impact of expanding yards or leveling land can go unnoticed, leading to issues like flooding and soil erosion. In this episode, Julie Travaglini discusses strategies for sustainable home landscaping to preserve soil health.

Meet Julie Travaglini

Julie Travaglini is a seasoned environmental educator currently serving as Senior Director of Education and Curriculum at Allegheny Land Trust. With nearly two decades of experience in the field, she is a leading advocate for environmental literacy and stewardship.

Julie’s commitment to education extends beyond her professional role. She actively engages in community leadership, serving as President-Elect for the Pennsylvania Association of Environmental Educators. She also finds creative expression through her self-published children’s book, Super Skills of Backyard Bugs, which celebrates the remarkable abilities of insects and inspires young minds to explore the natural world.

In addition to her environmental work, Julie is fascinated by documentaries like “How to Change Your Mind,” exploring the history and therapeutic applications of psychedelics. She also finds inspiration in podcasts like “Planted: Finding Your Roots in STEM,” which delves into careers in environmental science.

Julie’s admiration for Steve Irwin underscores her lifelong dedication to environmental education, shaped by her childhood fascination with his work. She emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science, particularly the importance of geography in understanding ecological issues within broader societal contexts.

About the episode

In this exciting episode, Julie Travaglini questions putting looks before the environment. She suggests you try practices that help the planet, like planting native plants and reducing waste. And guess what? These changes aren’t just good for Mother Nature; they can also save you money in the long run.

As the talk progresses, Julie explains why taking care of soil and land is so important for sustainable gardening. She shares stories about dealing with floods and erosion in her own yard, showing why it’s better to work with nature than against it. She also discusses simple solutions like rain gardens and ponds to help manage water and protect our homes and nature.

But there’s more to it than just talking – Julie gives practical tips for making your home more eco-friendly. From checking out flood history to setting up compost bins and rain gardens, she tells you how to create a home that takes care of itself and the environment. 

As the conversation continues, Julie discusses the benefits of having a garden filled with local plants. She explains how having lots of different plants helps bees and animals and how shady spots can keep your home cooler and save you money on energy. Her enthusiasm makes you curious about sustainable living and shows how it can bring joy and goodness.

In conclusion

Recognizing the impact of landscaping choices on the environment, you can take steps to be responsible and create a more sustainable future. Whether planting native species, conserving soil, or embracing eco-friendly practices, every action you take for your home and garden can make a difference. You can cultivate a greener, healthier planet for us and future generations.

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