About this episode

The episode explores biodegradable mulches, soil microbes, and carbon isotopes with researchers from the University of Tennessee.

In this episode of Mulch Matters , host Dr. Nataliya Shcherbatyuk sits down with University of Tennessee researchers Dr. Sean Schaeffer and Jacob Clements to explore the unseen world beneath our feet, where biodegradable mulches, soil microbes, and even carbon isotopes reveal surprising stories. Together, they break down what happens to soil‑biodegradable mulches (BDMs) once they enter the soil, how microbes physically and chemically transform plastic into smaller fragments, and why climate factors like temperature, moisture, and soil texture play such a big role in decomposition. Jacob offers an inside look at his cutting‑edge use of carbon‑13 and carbon‑14 isotope tracing , explaining how these tools help scientists pinpoint exactly where mulch‑derived carbon ends up and which microbes are doing the work. The conversation also addresses farmers' biggest concerns when switching from polyethylene mulch to BDMs—including cost, aesthetics, degradation rate, and soil health impacts. Sean and Jacob share new findings from multi‑state research in Washington, Florida, Nebraska, California, and beyond, highlighting where BDMs break down fastest and why. Finally, the episode explores the…

People in this episode

Host: Nataliya Shcherbatyuk

Guests: Sean Schaeffer, Jacob Clements

Topics covered

• biodegradable mulches
• soil health
• microbial ecology
• carbon isotopes
• sustainable agriculture
• decomposition

Keywords

• biodegradable mulches
• soil microbes
• carbon isotopes
• decomposition
• sustainable farming
• plastic pollution

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: University of Tennessee

Places: Washington, Florida, Nebraska, California

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• From Macro to Micro: Following Mulch Fragments Through the Soil · January 30, 2026 · 20 min
• Beyond the Plastic: How Social Values Shape Mulch Decisions in Agriculture · December 18, 2025 · 24 min
• Plastic Waste to Soil Wealth: A Microbial Makeover with Sam Baker · November 19, 2025 · 30 min
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