Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic Packaging

Cory Connors
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Join industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers as we explore the future of packaging through the lens of sustainability.  Hosted by Cory Connors, an industry expert with over 25 years of experience, and presented by Atlantic Packaging, the leader in innovative sustainable solutions, we dive into what’s working (and what’s not) from cutting-edge materials to circular design strategies that can reduce waste and protect our planet.  Each episode blends real data, expert insights, and a dose of fun to help you stay informed and inspired. Whether you're in the packaging industry or simply passionate about sustainability, this podcast is your weekly go-to resource for making smarter, greener choices.

  1. 6D AGO

    Textile Waste Into Reusable Packaging : KIUD CEO Kaie Kaas-Ojavere

    In this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, we dive into an innovative solution tackling two major environmental challenges: textile waste and packaging sustainability. Kaie Kaas-Ojavere shares her journey from the fashion industry to co-founding KIUD, a company transforming textile waste into durable, reusable packaging. She explains how KIUD’s material is created, its benefits for e-commerce and circular systems, and the company’s vision for scaling globally. Kaie also discusses the challenges of textile recycling, the importance of controlled waste streams, and how KIUD’s boxes have already proven their durability in real-world use cases. With extended producer responsibility and packaging regulations on the rise, Kaie highlights why reusable packaging is gaining traction and how KIUD is leading the way. Key Topics Discussed: Kaie’s background in fashion and why she pivoted to sustainabilityThe origin of KIUD and its mission to repurpose textile wasteHow KIUD’s packaging is made and why it’s different from cardboardBenefits of reusable packaging for e-commerce and telecom industriesChallenges in textile recycling and scaling post-consumer waste solutionsDurability testing: boxes lasting 10–15 reuse cyclesPrinting options and branding considerations for KIUD packagingFuture plans: expanding globally and improving material strengthBusiness model for fashion brands: recycling + buy-back commitmentPotential applications beyond packaging (industrial, hospitality, etc.)Resources Mentioned: KIUD official website: www.kiud.io LinkedIn: KIUD Company Page EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Contact: To learn more or request samples, visit www.kiud.io or connect with Kaie Kaas on LinkedIn. Closing Thoughts: Kaie and Cory emphasize the importance of creative solutions to reduce waste and promote circularity. KIUD’s approach demonstrates how innovation can turn industry byproducts into valuable resources, paving the way for a more sustainable future in packaging. 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.

    27 min

  2. FEB 1

    Viral Attention Drives Action on Bali’s Plastic Problem with Gary Bencheghib of Sungai Watch

    In this episode, Cory talks with Gary Bencheghib, co‑founder of Sungai Watch, about his journey from filmmaker to environmental leader and how his team is tackling plastic pollution in Indonesia’s rivers. Gary explains how Sungai Watch has installed hundreds of river barriers, collected millions of kilos of waste, and used viral storytelling to mobilize communities. He also discusses the challenges of Indonesia’s waste infrastructure, the importance of better packaging design, and how recycled plastic from river cleanups is being transformed into new products. Key Topics Discussed: Gary’s background in filmmaking and environmental storytellingFounding Sungai Watch and the development of river‑barrier solutionsWhy Indonesia is a major source of ocean plastic pollutionCommunity‑based cleanup models and cultural attitudes around wasteThe impact of viral media in building global supportSungai Watch’s 12 sorting centers and daily waste‑processing operationsConverting river plastic into recycled chairs, trays, and furnitureThe lack of waste collection systems across Bali and JavaThe need for reduction, mono‑materials, and circular packaging designHow sponsorships and barrier funding help scale cleanup effortsResources Mentioned: Sungai Watch — nonprofit river‑cleanup organization Sungai Design — recycled‑plastic furniture brand Contact: Email: gary@sungaiwatch.com Website: sungaiwatch.com LinkedIn: Gary Bencheghib Closing Thoughts: Cory and Gary emphasize the importance of simple, scalable solutions and the power of community action in addressing river‑to‑ocean plastic pollution. Sungai Watch’s work demonstrates how storytelling, transparency, and innovation can inspire global participation and move the world closer to a circular, waste‑free future. 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.

    26 min

  3. JAN 25

    How to Fix Plastics Recycling (Kate Bailey) Association of Plastic Recyclers

    Summary: In this episode, Cory Connors talks with Kate Bailey about the challenges and opportunities in plastics recycling. Kate shares her journey from college recycling jobs to becoming a leading voice in policy and design for sustainable packaging. The discussion covers practical steps brands can take, the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and why collaboration between designers, recyclers, and policymakers is critical for success. Key Topics Discussed: Kate’s background and career path in recycling and sustainabilityThe role and mission of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR)APR’s flagship resource: Design Guide for Plastics RecyclabilityHow packaging design impacts recycling efficiencyExtended Producer Responsibility (EPR): what it means and why it mattersPractical advice for brands navigating EPR lawsBenefits of EPR for recycling infrastructure, transparency, and design incentivesUsing recycled content as a key sustainability strategyBright spots in plastics recycling: domestic infrastructure growth, bottle-to-bottle recyclingThe evolving role of advanced (chemical) recycling and why mechanical recycling still leadsConsumer education and access: solving confusion and improving participationThe future of recycling systems: regional and national frameworks Resources Mentioned: Association of Plastic RecyclersAPR Design Guide for Plastics RecyclabilityU.S. Plastics PactOregon Recycling Modernization ActContact: Connect with Kate and her team at PlasticsRecycling.org or on LinkedIn. Closing Thoughts:  Kate highlights that plastic recycling is effective and can become more successful through collaboration, thoughtful design, and aligned policies. She encourages companies to engage constructively with policymakers, leverage data for better packaging decisions, and embrace recycled content as a cornerstone of sustainability. Together, we can build a more efficient, transparent, and circular system for plastics. Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Plastic Recycling and Its Importance 02:53 Kate Bailey's Journey into Recycling 05:50 The Role of the Association of Plastic Recyclers 08:40 Navigating Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) 11:22 The Benefits of EPR for Recycling and Sustainability 14:07 Designing for Recyclability: Best Practices 16:50 Bright Spots in Plastics Recycling 19:54 The Future of Chemical Recycling 22:26 Access and Education in Recycling 25:20 Conclusion and Call to Action 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.

    29 min

  4. JAN 18

    Inside Packaging’s Future Innovators with Danielle Goad and Nicole Toole

    Bonjour and Hello,  In this episode, Cory Connors interviews two standout winners of the Paris Packaging Week Future Leaders Program—Danielle Goad and Nicole Toole—to explore their journeys, innovations, and perspectives on the future of sustainable packaging. Danielle shares how discovering packaging at Cal Poly led to a global leadership role at SpecRight and her upcoming move to London as she builds the EMEA region. Nicole recounts founding ECGO as a college project and transforming it into an AI‑powered recycling education and behavior‑change platform used by students, universities, and brands. Both leaders reflect on being recognized among the top ten emerging leaders worldwide and discuss the importance of global collaboration, consumer behavior insights, regulatory preparedness (PPWR & EPR), and inspiration from younger generations. They share what they're most looking forward to at Paris Packaging Week—from innovation zones to reuse concepts to the energy of an international community passionate about packaging. Key Topics Discussed: Danielle’s path from student to global leader and her work scaling SpecRight internationallyNicole’s founding of ECGO and the role of AI, incentives, and data insights in improving recycling behaviorsThe significance and impact of being named Future Leaders by Paris Packaging WeekEvolving sustainability messaging and the shift toward value‑driven, consumer‑relevant communicationThe rapid pace of regulatory change and the industry’s need for continual education (PPWR, EPR)Cross‑industry collaboration and the packaging sector’s tight‑knit, globally connected natureExcitement about innovations in reuse, sustainability tech, and meeting global peers at Paris Packaging WeekResources Mentioned: SpecRight – Specification management platformECGO – AI‑powered consumer education and recycling platformParis Packaging Week Future Leaders ProgramContact: Danielle Goad: LinkedIn: Danielle Goad Email: danielle@specright.com Visit SpecRight at their stand in the PCD space during Paris Packaging Week Nicole Toole: Website: ecgo.co LinkedIn: Nicole Toole Closing Thoughts: Cory, Danielle, and Nicole highlight the tremendous momentum building within sustainable packaging—driven by young leaders, new technologies, data‑driven insights, and global collaboration. They emphasize that meaningful industry change requires education, curiosity, and fresh thinking from every generation. Both guests hope their recognition as Future Leaders inspires other emerging professionals to share ideas boldly, challenge the status quo, and pursue innovative solutions that reduce waste and improve the planet. 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.

    29 min

  5. JAN 11

    From Trash to Trend: High Performance Optics Made From Recycled Plastic

    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 helpUpcoming product innovations: coolers, surfboard bags, knives, and building‑material applications.Resources Mentioned: Stoked PlasticsOpolis 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! 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.

    33 min

  6. JAN 4

    Google's Sustainability Mission With Robert Little

    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 SustainabilityRobert’s Role at GoogleGoogle’s Sustainability Mission & Circularity GoalsPackaging Innovation at GoogleGoogle Maps Recycling Drop‑Off SearchAI & Machine Learning for Waste SystemsMaterra (formerly “Project X”): Advanced Material IdentificationAdvice for Consumer BrandsA Call for Optimism & Sharing Good Sustainability StoriesResources Mentioned: Google Trends – trends.google.comGoogle Maps Recycling AttributesGoogle’s Plastic‑Free Packaging Design GuideCircularNet (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.

    35 min

  7. 12/28/2025

    The Power of Neutral Convening With Dave Ford

    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.coLegislator Guide for Circular PolicyThe Recycling PartnershipOcean ConservancyAtlantic 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.

    32 min

  8. 12/21/2025

    All in One Zero Waste Platform SCRAPP With Mikey Pasciuto

    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 platformThe role of data in predicting and reducing waste generationExtended Producer Responsibility (EPR): what it means for brands and why it mattersOperational costs of waste management and strategies to reduce themReal-world case studies: balancing packaging design, food waste reduction, and EPR feesWhy designing for operations beats designing for policyThe importance of recycled content mandates and eco-modulationChallenges in recycling markets, infrastructure funding, and material economicsStandardization of recycling rules vs. local market realitiesUniversal landfill bans and their impact on creating new recycling marketsResources Mentioned: SCRAPP Zero Waste PlatformOregon Recycling Modernization ActCarton Council recycling grantsToyota 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.

    28 min
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About

Join industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers as we explore the future of packaging through the lens of sustainability.  Hosted by Cory Connors, an industry expert with over 25 years of experience, and presented by Atlantic Packaging, the leader in innovative sustainable solutions, we dive into what’s working (and what’s not) from cutting-edge materials to circular design strategies that can reduce waste and protect our planet.  Each episode blends real data, expert insights, and a dose of fun to help you stay informed and inspired. Whether you're in the packaging industry or simply passionate about sustainability, this podcast is your weekly go-to resource for making smarter, greener choices.

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