In this episode, Cory talks with James Merrill, founder of Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics, about transforming ocean‑bound and landfill‑bound plastic into high‑performance sunglasses and goggles. James shares how his experience working in vulnerable communities overseas led him to create a patented recycled‑plastic technology that boosts recycled content up to 75%. They also discuss Opolis’ growth, supply‑chain transparency, and the major setback of a $20,000 theft during an REI fulfillment—followed by strong community support.

Key Topics Discussed:

• How global counter‑extremism work revealed the link between plastic pollution, poverty, and instability.
• Development of Stoked Plastic, enabling products with 75% recycled content, far above typical levels.
• Launch of Opolis Optics to prove market demand, leading to retail partnerships with REI, L.L. Bean, and Paragon Sports.
• Transparent supply-chain partnerships with Ocean Material and #tide, supporting local cleanup communities.
• Product impact: ~10 bottles per pair of goggles; ~2 bottles per pair of sunglasses.
• The major inventory theft, financial impact, and the outdoor community rallying to help
• Upcoming product innovations: coolers, surfboard bags, knives, and building‑material applications.

Resources Mentioned:

• Stoked Plastics
• Opolis Optics
• Ocean Material (supply‑chain partner)
• #tide (ocean‑bound plastic recovery partner)

Contact:

Instagram: Opolis Optics & Stoked Plastics
LinkedIn: James Merrill

Closing Thoughts:

James and Cory highlight how innovation + community impact can create powerful change in the fight against plastic pollution. Even small actions—like purchasing sustainably made products—help fund cleanup efforts and support vulnerable communities around the world. The episode reinforces that great products can also be great for the planet, and that long‑form storytelling plays a key role in inspiring meaningful action.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes his longtime friend and sustainability leader Robert Little to discuss Google’s sustainability mission—particularly its global work in circularity, recycling accessibility, packaging innovation, and the role of AI in modern waste systems. Robert shares his nonlinear career path, the principles that shaped his sustainability mindset, and how Google is leveraging its massive product ecosystem to scale sustainability solutions for billions of users worldwide.

The conversation explores Google Maps’ recycling drop‑off locator, Google Trends as a tool for understanding consumer sustainability needs, Google’s plastic‑free packaging design journey, and innovations like CircularNet and Materra, X’s emerging AI‑powered materials identification technology.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Robert’s Journey Into Sustainability
• Robert’s Role at Google
• Google’s Sustainability Mission & Circularity Goals
• Packaging Innovation at Google
• Google Maps Recycling Drop‑Off Search
• AI & Machine Learning for Waste Systems
• Materra (formerly “Project X”): Advanced Material Identification
• Advice for Consumer Brands
• A Call for Optimism & Sharing Good Sustainability Stories

Resources Mentioned:

• Google Trends – trends.google.com
• Google Maps Recycling Attributes
• Google’s Plastic‑Free Packaging Design Guide
• CircularNet (open‑source machine learning model)
• Materra by X (The Moonshot Factory)

Contact:

Connect with Robert Little on LinkedIn.

Closing Thoughts:

Cory and Robert emphasize the need for optimism, collaboration, and smarter infrastructure in global sustainability. Robert highlights the immense potential for AI, transparency, and ecosystem‑level innovation to keep materials “in play” and reduce reliance on new resource extraction.

They encourage listeners to stay curious, share good sustainability news, and use the tools available—many of them free—to design better packaging systems and reduce waste globally.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

https://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approved

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Dave Ford, founder and partner of Circle by OPLN, to discuss how neutral convening is transforming collaboration around the plastic crisis. Dave shares the origin of the Circle Program, the launch of the Legislator Guide for Circular Policy, and how bringing policymakers, industry, and NGOs together has shaped national conversations on EPR, DRS, and circularity. He reflects on the early days of OPLN, the pivotal expeditions that exposed leaders firsthand to plastic pollution, and how these experiences built a foundation for trust, shared understanding, and meaningful systems‑level change.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Launch of the Legislator Guide for Circular Policy and how it simplifies complex EPR/DRS concepts for elected officials.
• Circle Program origins: taking legislators and cross‑value‑chain stakeholders to locations with implemented EPR and deposit‑return systems worldwide.
• See Change Sessions outcomes, including cross‑sector collaboration and the decision to build the guide as a living digital resource.
• The importance of neutral convening—bringing petrochemical leaders, NGOs, policymakers, and brands together without an advocacy agenda.
• OPLN’s origin story, including expeditions to the Atlantic Garbage Patch that united 165 participants across the plastics ecosystem.
• The increasing need for education, readiness, and implementation support for companies navigating new EPR laws.
• How messaging around circularity shifts between regions, including emerging momentum for circular policy in Southern states.

Resources Mentioned:

• Circle by OPLN – circlenetwork.co
• Legislator Guide for Circular Policy
• The Recycling Partnership
• Ocean Conservancy
• Atlantic Packaging & A New Earth Project

Contact:
Dave Ford on LinkedIn
OPLN on LinkedIn: OPLN

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Dave emphasize the transformative power of bringing all stakeholders—industry, government, and NGOs—into one room, with neutrality, transparency, and shared learning as the foundation. They highlight the importance of experiential education, cross‑sector collaboration, and the continued evolution of circular policy work as states and companies prepare for the future of EPR.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

In this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Cory sits down with Mikey Pasciuto to explore SCRAPP’s evolution from a recycling app to a comprehensive zero-waste platform. Mikey shares insights on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), operational waste costs, and why businesses should design for efficiency rather than just policy. They dive into real-world examples, challenges in recycling infrastructure, and how SCRAPP helps brands navigate complex waste streams and regulations.

Key Topics Discussed:

• SCRAPP’s journey: from barcode-scanning recycling app to full-service waste accounting platform
• The role of data in predicting and reducing waste generation
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): what it means for brands and why it matters
• Operational costs of waste management and strategies to reduce them
• Real-world case studies: balancing packaging design, food waste reduction, and EPR fees
• Why designing for operations beats designing for policy
• The importance of recycled content mandates and eco-modulation
• Challenges in recycling markets, infrastructure funding, and material economics
• Standardization of recycling rules vs. local market realities
• Universal landfill bans and their impact on creating new recycling markets

Resources Mentioned:

• SCRAPP Zero Waste Platform
• Oregon Recycling Modernization Act
• Carton Council recycling grants
• Toyota Kanban and Six Sigma principles (applied to packaging logistics)

Contact:

To learn more or connect with Mikey:
Website: www.scrappzero.com
LinkedIn: Mikey Pasciuto

Closing Thoughts:

Mikey emphasizes that EPR fees should be viewed as part of doing business, not as a barrier to sustainability. By focusing on operational efficiency and informed packaging decisions, companies can reduce costs, minimize waste, and support a circular economy. Cory and Mikey agree: the future of packaging lies in balancing performance, recyclability, and system-wide thinking.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

Guest: Jennifer Patrick, Global Packaging and Branding Director at Patagonia

Summary:

Jennifer shares her journey from photography, creative direction, and print production to leading global packaging and branding at Patagonia, an iconic brand known for sustainability. She discusses how sustainability influences every decision, innovative packaging changes that saved millions of plastic pieces and pounds of paper, and how technology like QR codes transformed customer engagement.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Jennifer’s career path and creative background
• Patagonia’s sustainability-first approach in packaging
• Removing 37 million plastic Swiftachs
• Hang Tag redesign saving 175,000 pounds of paper
• Leveraging QR codes for global engagement and activism
• Customer feedback and data insights
• Patagonia’s Work in Progress impact report
• Advice for brands and consumers on sustainability

Resources Mentioned:

Patagonia's Progress Report
Patagonia’s sustainability initiatives
NetPlus material innovation

Contact:

Follow Patagonia on Instagram or visit Patagonia.com for updates and the impact report.

Closing Thoughts:

Jennifer emphasizes that small shifts can create big impacts in packaging and sustainability. She encourages collaboration across industries and conscious consumer behavior to drive meaningful change.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

Chapters:

00:00
The Journey to Patagonia: A Unique Background

02:42
Sustainability at the Core of Packaging Decisions

05:33
Innovative Packaging Solutions and Their Impact

08:11
Engaging Customers Through Technology

10:55
Building Community and Feedback Loops

13:46
Patagonia's Role in Environmental Responsibility

16:39
Future Innovations and Product Developments

https://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approved

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

Summary:

In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Senator Heidi Campbell to discuss her journey from music to politics, her passion for environmental issues, and her groundbreaking work on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Tennessee. Senator Campbell shares insights into the “Waste to Jobs” initiative, the challenges of implementing EPR in a red state, and why this approach could transform recycling infrastructure across the Southeast.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Senator Campbell’s background in music and transition into public service
• The origin and goals of Tennessee’s Waste to Jobs program
• Why EPR legislation matters and how it can succeed in conservative states
• The role of Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) in harmonizing recycling efforts
• Challenges with landfill capacity and the Jackson Law in Tennessee
• Opportunities for businesses to lead in creating effective EPR models
• Insights from the See Change Sessions 2025 event and collaboration across industries
• The importance of harmonization to avoid 50 different EPR bills for brands
• Potential for deposit return systems and why beverage companies resist them
• How EPR can create jobs, reduce waste, and support a circular economy

Resources Mentioned:

• Tennessee Waste to Jobs initiative and film (nominated for a Nashville Film Award)
• Circular Action Alliance (current PRO for several states)
• Tennessee Environmental Council
• See Change Sessions and OPLN events

Contact:

Senator Campbell encourages outreach from individuals and organizations interested in sustainability. Her contact information is available on official Tennessee legislative pages.

Closing Thoughts:

Senator Campbell emphasizes that EPR is not just an environmental solution—it’s an economic opportunity. By building recycling infrastructure and creating jobs, Tennessee can lead the way for other states. Cory and Senator Campbell agree that collaboration between brands, legislators, and communities is key to making circular economy principles a reality.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Sustainable Packaging and Senator Campbell

01:51
Senator Campbell's Journey into Public Service

05:35
Insights from Sea Change Event

08:13
Waste to Jobs Program in Tennessee

14:12
Engaging with the Community and Future Plans

18:08
Challenges and Opportunities in Recycling

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Trei Johnson to discuss the future of plastic packaging and the challenges of recycling flexible materials. Trei shares his path from studying sustainability at Cornell to impactful roles at Unilever and Mars Wrigley before joining Accredo Packaging to lead its sustainability strategy. He highlights Accredo’s unique story as a family-owned company founded by Vietnamese immigrants and its commitment to operating with 100% wind power and developing recyclable packaging solutions.

Key Topics Discussed

• Trei’s career journey from Cornell to Unilever, Mars Wrigley, and Accredo Packaging
• How Accredo was founded and its family-run values that support long-term sustainability
• “Sustainable Packaging, Sustainably Produced” — what that motto means for Accredo
• Challenges in plastic recycling and how consumer education plays a key role
• Progress in store-drop flexible film recycling and regulatory momentum
• The growing consumer demand for compostable and bio-based plastics
• California’s stance on compostable materials and how policy impacts brand decisions
• Industry collaboration at events like SPC Boston and the importance of thought leadership
• Trei’s career advice for young professionals with sustainability degrees — combining broad environmental skills with functional expertise in R&D, marketing, or engineering
• The power of LinkedIn for career growth and building a professional brand

Resources Mentioned

• Accredo Packaging — Sustainable Packaging, Sustainably Produced
• API Group (Acredi Packaging’s parent organization)
• 7th Generation Recyclable Stand-Up Pouch
• Napa Recycling
• Sway
• Cruz Foam

Contact

Listeners can connect with Trei Johnson on LinkedIn for insights and industry collaboration opportunities.

Closing Thoughts

Cory and Trei discuss the promise and complexity of creating more sustainable plastics. They agree that true progress will come from collaboration across the value chain, policy alignment, and consumer engagement. Their conversation underscores that the future of packaging is not about a single solution but a diverse set of innovations driven by shared commitment to a cleaner planet.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Sustainable Packaging and Trei Johnson

01:12
Trey's Journey into Packaging and Sustainability

04:41
Accredo Packaging: A Unique Story

08:35
Sustainable Practices at Accredo

10:41
Challenges and Advancements in Plastic Recycling

13:11
The Future of Compostable Packaging

16:37
Advice for Aspiring Sustainability Professionals

keywords sustainable packaging, Trei Johnson, Accredo Packaging, recycling, compos

https://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approved

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Cody Loewen from Hills Pet Nutrition to discuss how innovative packaging solutions are driving both sustainability and cost savings. Cody shares his unconventional journey into packaging, the impact of data-driven optimization projects, and how supplier collaboration and new materials are helping Hills Pet Nutrition reduce plastic use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve operational efficiency.

Key Topics Discussed

• Cody’s background in chemical engineering and transition into packaging
• The importance of supplier collaboration and shared sustainability goals
• Major savings and plastic reduction achieved through the MUST stretch film optimization program with Atlantic Packaging
• Pallet pattern optimization: eliminating over 100,000 pallets annually, reducing storage and transportation needs
• The Canopy™ program: replacing plastic shrink film with paper overwrap, reducing plastic use and enabling significant energy savings by shutting down heat tunnels
• The importance of life cycle analysis (LCA) to ensure true sustainability benefits
• Ongoing efforts to find alternatives for retort pouches and other multi-material packaging
• Collaboration and knowledge sharing with Colgate and other divisions to scale successful projects
• The value of pre-competitive collaboration in the packaging industry
• The excitement and unpredictability of innovation in sustainable packaging

Resources Mentioned

• MUST Stretch Film Optimization System
• Canopy™ Paper Overwrap Solution
• Hills Pet Nutrition
• Colgate-Palmolive Sustainability Initiatives

Contact

Listeners interested in learning more about Hills Pet Nutrition’s sustainability journey or connecting with Cody can visit hillspet.com or reach out via LinkedIn.

Closing Thoughts

Cory and Cody highlight the power of collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement in sustainable packaging. They encourage industry professionals to seek out like-minded partners, embrace data-driven decision making, and remain open to new ideas that can benefit both business and the environment.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Sustainable Packaging and Background

01:49
Innovations in Stretch Film and Cost Savings

04:10
Optimization of Pallet Usage for Sustainability

06:56
Exploring Canopy: A Shift from Plastic to Paper

08:41
Future Projects and Collaboration with Colgate

11:47
Looking Ahead: Exciting Developments in Packaging

keywords: sustainable packaging, Hills Pet Nutrition, Cody Loewen, stretch film, pallet optimization, Canopy, energy savings, environmental impact, packaging innovations, pet food packaging

https://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approved

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap.

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.