Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic Packaging

Cory Connors

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. 12H AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 12/14/2025

    How Patagonia Turns Packaging Into a Brand Statement with Jennifer Patrick

    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 backgroundPatagonia’s sustainability-first approach in packagingRemoving 37 million plastic SwiftachsHang Tag redesign saving 175,000 pounds of paperLeveraging QR codes for global engagement and activismCustomer feedback and data insightsPatagonia’s Work in Progress impact reportAdvice for brands and consumers on sustainabilityResources 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.

    24 min

  5. 12/07/2025

    State Senator Heidi Campbell on EPR in Red States

    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 serviceThe origin and goals of Tennessee’s Waste to Jobs programWhy EPR legislation matters and how it can succeed in conservative statesThe role of Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) in harmonizing recycling effortsChallenges with landfill capacity and the Jackson Law in TennesseeOpportunities for businesses to lead in creating effective EPR modelsInsights from the See Change Sessions 2025 event and collaboration across industriesThe importance of harmonization to avoid 50 different EPR bills for brandsPotential for deposit return systems and why beverage companies resist themHow EPR can create jobs, reduce waste, and support a circular economyResources Mentioned: Tennessee Waste to Jobs initiative and film (nominated for a Nashville Film Award)Circular Action Alliance (current PRO for several states)Tennessee Environmental CouncilSee Change Sessions and OPLN eventsContact: 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 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.

    24 min

  6. 11/30/2025

    More Sustainable Plastic with Trei Johnson (Accredo PKG)

    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 PackagingHow Accredo was founded and its family-run values that support long-term sustainability“Sustainable Packaging, Sustainably Produced” — what that motto means for AccredoChallenges in plastic recycling and how consumer education plays a key roleProgress in store-drop flexible film recycling and regulatory momentumThe growing consumer demand for compostable and bio-based plasticsCalifornia’s stance on compostable materials and how policy impacts brand decisionsIndustry collaboration at events like SPC Boston and the importance of thought leadershipTrei’s career advice for young professionals with sustainability degrees — combining broad environmental skills with functional expertise in R&D, marketing, or engineeringThe power of LinkedIn for career growth and building a professional brandResources Mentioned Accredo Packaging — Sustainable Packaging, Sustainably ProducedAPI Group (Acredi Packaging’s parent organization)7th Generation Recyclable Stand-Up PouchNapa RecyclingSwayCruz FoamContact 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.

    24 min

  7. 11/23/2025

    Hills Pet Nutrition with Cody Loewen

    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 packagingThe importance of supplier collaboration and shared sustainability goalsMajor savings and plastic reduction achieved through the MUST stretch film optimization program with Atlantic PackagingPallet pattern optimization: eliminating over 100,000 pallets annually, reducing storage and transportation needsThe Canopy™ program: replacing plastic shrink film with paper overwrap, reducing plastic use and enabling significant energy savings by shutting down heat tunnelsThe importance of life cycle analysis (LCA) to ensure true sustainability benefitsOngoing efforts to find alternatives for retort pouches and other multi-material packagingCollaboration and knowledge sharing with Colgate and other divisions to scale successful projectsThe value of pre-competitive collaboration in the packaging industryThe excitement and unpredictability of innovation in sustainable packagingResources Mentioned MUST Stretch Film Optimization SystemCanopy™ Paper Overwrap SolutionHills Pet NutritionColgate-Palmolive Sustainability InitiativesContact 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.

    17 min

  8. 11/16/2025

    Big Announcement : Funding from Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (Constance Gewa)

    https://foundationfar.org/ Deadline is December 17th to apply for funding!  https://foundationfar.org/grants-funding/opportunities/packaging-innovation-program/ In this conversation, Cory Connors and Constance Gewa discuss the importance of collaborative partnerships in the food and agriculture sector, focusing on the role of the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research. They explore innovations in sustainable packaging, the structure of funding programs, and the impact of these initiatives on the agricultural community. Constance shares insights on the challenges faced by the industry and the importance of research in developing practical solutions. The conversation highlights upcoming events and opportunities for stakeholders to engage with the foundation. takeaways Constance Gewa emphasizes the importance of collaborative partnerships in addressing food system challenges.The Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research was established to increase public agriculture research investments.FAR's funding model requires a match from non-federal sources to ensure stakeholder investment.Innovations in sustainable packaging are crucial for compliance with upcoming regulations in global markets.The program supports various stages of innovation, from early research to market-ready solutions.Packaging plays multiple roles, including food safety, shelf life, and aesthetics.Real-world solutions are needed to address the challenges in the food system.The program fosters community and collaboration among innovators in the agricultural sector.Upcoming webinars provide opportunities for stakeholders to learn about funding and support.The foundation aims to connect academia with industry to create impactful solutions.titles Innovations in Food and AgricultureBuilding Collaborative Partnerships for Sustainable SolutionsSound Bites "I'm so excited to have you on.""Packaging has so many roles.""We're excited about that."Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Event Reflections 02:56 Constance Gewa's Background and Role 05:53 Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research Overview 08:49 Collaborative Programs and Packaging Innovations 11:37 Innovative Solutions in Sustainable Packaging 14:23 Application Process and Program Impact 17:16 Community and Collaboration in Innovation 20:06 Future Events and Closing Remarks 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.

    22 min
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5
out of 5
46 Ratings

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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