Factually! with Adam Conover

How Roads Actually Divide Us with Ben Goldfarb

Oct 18, 2023

53:37

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Ben Goldfarb, a conservation journalist, joins Adam to discuss the profound ecological impact of roads. They explore how roads divide us, affecting wildlife survival, human health, and even lifespan. The podcast highlights the negative effects of road noise on animals and humans, as well as the historical and racial implications of road construction. Ben's book, "Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping The Future of Our Planet," offers solutions for preserving our interconnected world.

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Quick takeaways

Roads have a negative impact on the environment, endangering animals through habitat loss, roadkill, and noise pollution.

Communities of color and economically disadvantaged communities are disproportionately affected by the negative impacts of roads, highlighting the need for equitable and sustainable transportation solutions.

Deep dives

Roads have a negative environmental impact and endanger animals

Roads have a negative impact on the environment and endanger animals due to habitat loss, roadkill, and noise pollution. Roads cut through habitats and ecosystems, disrupting natural landscapes. Roadkill is a major problem, with more than a million animals killed by cars in the US every day. Roads also contribute to the fragmentation of habitats and hinder migration for many species. Additionally, road noise pollution can disrupt animal communication and impact their survival. The negative environmental impact of roads extends beyond climate change and requires attention and solutions.

Introduction

3min

The Ecological Impact of Roads on Animals

5min

The Impact of Roads on Wildlife Habitats

15min

Impact of Road Noise on Wildlife

6min

The Impact of Roads on Humans

5min

Roads as Dividers

19min

Discussing the Book 'Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of the Planet'

2min

We often perceive roads as connectors, expanding our world and improving our quality of life. However, roads, from the smallest hiking trails to vast multilane highways, have profound and unseen effects on the fundamental ecology of our environment. They divide us in unforeseen ways, influencing everything from the survival of wildlife to the average human lifespan. In this episode, Adam is joined by Ben Goldfarb, a conservation journalist and the author of Crossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping The Future of Our Planet, to discuss responsible approaches for preserving our interconnected world. Find Ben's book at factuallypod.com/books

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