Bike Rides, Bus Shelters, and the Fight for Climate Resilience in College Park

Georgia Conservation Voters recently featured Encounter GA member John Duke on the Greater Greener Georgia Podcast where he talks about his book, "Leaving the Suburbs", and the environmental and political landscape in Georgia.

In this engaging episode, John —environmental advocate, author, and floodplain analyst—shares his unique journey from veterinary medicine to environmental advocacy and infrastructure reform. After working with the USDA on public health issues and spending time in England during the foot-and-mouth epidemic, Duke pivoted toward a deep focus on environmental science. His studies at community college in Minnesota helped him build expertise in hydrology and ecology, eventually leading to his own floodplain modeling business serving clients across 26 states. Duke brings a deep sense of place and civic knowledge, shaped by decades of living in and advocating for College Park, Georgia.

Duke also reflects on the themes of his book, Leaving the Suburbs, which blends memoir and environmental critique, using his solo 3,300-mile bike ride as a narrative device to explore climate realities across the U.S. He speaks about urban development and how American sprawl, especially in places like metro Atlanta, contributes to environmental degradation and economic inefficiency. His local activism includes “random acts of infrastructure”—like installing a bus shelter with friends to improve public transportation access—and presenting to city officials about transitioning College Park to 100% clean electricity. Throughout the episode, Duke advocates for long-term thinking, community-centered infrastructure, and a shift in culture toward density and sustainability.