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. 5D AGO

    Revolutionizing Reusable Packaging with CEO Loic Vandermeeren

    In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Loïc Vandermeeren, founder and CEO of KWiiD, to discuss the innovative reusable box system reshaping sustainable packaging. Loïc shares how his background in IT and pharma, combined with a desire to reduce waste, inspired him to develop collapsible reusable packaging made from a fabric exterior and a replaceable corrugated insert. He explains how KWiiD boxes provide speed, durability, and cost efficiency while dramatically extending the life of corrugated materials. Loïc describes the 14‑iteration design journey, feedback from early partners like Decathlon, and how closed‑loop systems such as click‑and‑collect and locker‑based logistics help maximize return rates and reduce environmental impact. The conversation also covers customization, operational savings, and the positive reception of KWiiD’s products at the Sustainable Packaging Summit in Utrecht. Key Topics Discussed: Loïc’s shift from IT/pharma to sustainable packaging and his motivation to address wasteThe inspiration for KWiiD during a visit to a recycling centerHow KWiiD’s collapsible box works and the benefits of fabric protection with a replaceable corrugated insertChallenges with traditional reusable packaging and how KWiiD extends box life up to 100 cyclesCustomer use cases including Decathlon’s successful closed‑loop implementationThe importance of internal logistics, click‑and‑collect, and locker systems for reliable returnsThe 14‑iteration design process and real‑world feedback during developmentBranding and customization options for the fabric exteriorCost savings, the subscription model, and benefits of avoiding capex for customersExperiences at the Sustainable Packaging Summit and the value of industry collaborationWhat’s ahead for KWiiD and expected growth in 2026Resources Mentioned: KWiiD reusable packaging system Sustainable Packaging Summit (Utrecht) KWiiD LinkedIn Contact: Listeners can reach Loïc and the KWiiD team through the contact form at kwiid.com or by connecting on LinkedIn to view demos and case studies. Loïc: LinkedIn KWiiD: LinkedIn Closing Thoughts: Cory and Loïc highlight the importance of innovation, collaboration, and action in driving sustainability in packaging. Loïc encourages anyone with an idea to take the first step, emphasizing that meaningful impact only happens when ideas move from discussion to execution. KWiiD’s story demonstrates how practical, scalable solutions can significantly reduce waste and support a more sustainable future. Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors! Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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.

    25 min

  2. MAR 1

    An Artist's Role in Global Climate Change with Benjamin Von Wong

    In this episode, Cory Connors speaks with environmental artist Benjamin Von Wong, known for large-scale installations that elevate global conversations around plastic pollution, climate change, and overconsumption. Ben shares his unusual path from mining engineering to purpose-driven art and discusses how creative storytelling can bring attention, urgency, and emotional connection to complex environmental issues. He reflects on his United Nations installation The Thinker’s Burden, his involvement in Extended Producer Responsibility initiatives, and his recent collaboration with the World Economic Forum and Atlantic Packaging. Key Topics Discussed: Ben’s transition from mining engineer to environmental artistCreating The Thinker’s Burden at the United NationsHow art influences climate and plastics treaty discussionsOverconsumption, reuse, and systemic changeEPR visualization at See Change 2025GAEA Awards collaboration with the World Economic ForumSustainable packaging partnership with Atlantic PackagingUpcoming climate-focused installations at future COPsResources Mentioned: Ocean Plastic Leadership NetworkGlobal Plastics TreatySee ChangeWorld Economic Forum – GAEA AwardsCruz Foam sustainable foamAtlantic Packaging & A New Earth ProjectContact: Connect with Benjamin Von Wong: Website: vonwong.com Instagram LinkedIn Closing Thoughts: Cory and Benjamin reflect on how creativity, storytelling, and collaboration can help shift the global sustainability conversation in meaningful ways, highlighting the unique role each person plays in influencing change. Ben emphasizes that art may not directly alter policy, but it can move people emotionally and create shared understanding—often the first step toward action. Together, they discuss the importance of hope, innovation, and cross‑sector partnerships in addressing complex environmental challenges, encouraging listeners to recognize their own ability to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future. Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors! Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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. FEB 22

    3M Innovations with Recycled Content Packaging with Julianne Strunk

    In this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Cory welcomes back returning guest Julianne Strunk from 3M. The discussion centers on 3M’s latest innovation campaign — Recycled Sealing Made Simple — which addresses the growing challenges brands face as recycled content becomes more common in corrugated packaging. Julianne talks about her journey at 3M, the rise of recycled corrugate in the marketplace, the performance issues customers are experiencing, and how 3M is responding with tapes, equipment, and systems designed for today’s packaging realities. The episode also touches on 3M’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, as well as big announcements coming at PACK EXPO. Key Topics Discussed: Recycled corrugate is increasing, causing weaker boxes and adhesion issues.3M launched “Recycled Sealing Made Simple” to fix sealing problems on recycled board.New sustainable tapes include recyclable paper tape and recycled‑content backing.Improved tape heads & automation reduce box damage, jams, and re‑taping.3M strengthens industry role as a founding sponsor of the podcast.More innovations coming, with major releases planned for PACK EXPO.Resources Mentioned: Website: 3M Julianne Strunk: LinkedIn 3M: LinkedIn 3M sustainable packaging tapes and automation equipment Contact: Companies interested in learning more about 3M’s sustainable packaging solutions or partnership opportunities can reach out through their 3M representative or distributor network. Closing Thoughts: Cory and Julianne emphasize how rapidly packaging materials are changing and how vital it is for brands to adapt with solutions designed for higher‑recycled‑content substrates. 3M continues to lead with thoughtful innovation, strong customer partnerships, and systems that align sustainability with performance. The episode encourages listeners to rethink adhesion challenges, explore automation upgrades, and stay tuned for new 3M product releases. Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors! Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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

  4. FEB 15

    Navigating Global Sustainability with Lydia Geddes of Lorax EPI

    In this episode, Cory Connors speaks with Lydia Geddes from Lorax EPI about how her team helps companies navigate Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) globally. Lydia shares her personal journey from sociology graduate to EPR expert, the evolution of Lorax EPI, and why data management is the cornerstone of compliance. They discuss the rapid changes in EPR legislation, the challenges businesses face, and why Lorax EPI’s hands-on approach beats AI-powered shortcuts. Key Topics Discussed: Lydia’s career path and how COVID reshaped her trajectoryWhat Lorax EPI does and why it’s a global leader in EPR complianceThe complexity of EPR reporting and why data is kingHow Lorax EPI supports businesses with last-minute compliance needsThe rise of EPR in North America and its impact on global brandsWhy AI tools fall short for nuanced EPR legislationLorax EPI’s growth, global footprint, and commitment to client collaborationFuture trends: Will EPR ever be standardized worldwide?Practical advice for companies starting their EPR journey Resources Mentioned: Lorax EPI website: loraxcompliance.comLorax EPI LinkedIn pageCircular Action Alliance webinarsContact: Reach out to Lydia and her team: Email: lgeddes@loraxcompliance.com Info: info@loraxcompliance.com Website: loraxcompliance.com Closing Thoughts: Lydia emphasizes that EPR is here to stay—and it’s only getting more complex. Businesses that act now to gather comprehensive data and partner with experts will be better prepared for the future. Lorax EPI’s combination of technology and human expertise makes them an invaluable resource for companies navigating this fast-changing landscape. Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors! Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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.

    30 min

  5. FEB 8

    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! Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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

  6. 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! Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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

  7. 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 Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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.

    30 min

  8. 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! Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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
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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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