Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic Packaging

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-approvedhttps://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.

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 ProjectContact:Dave Ford on LinkedInOPLN on LinkedIn: OPLNClosing 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.

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.comLinkedIn: Mikey PasciutoClosing 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.

How Patagonia Turns Packaging Into a Brand Statement with Jennifer Patrick

Guest: Jennifer Patrick, Global Packaging and Branding Director at PatagoniaSummary: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 ReportPatagonia’s sustainability initiativesNetPlus material innovationContact: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:00:00The Journey to Patagonia: A Unique Background02:42Sustainability at the Core of Packaging Decisions05:33Innovative Packaging Solutions and Their Impact08:11Engaging Customers Through Technology10:55Building Community and Feedback Loops13:46Patagonia's Role in Environmental Responsibility16:39Future Innovations and Product Developmentshttps://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approvedhttps://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.

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!Chapters00:00Introduction to Sustainable Packaging and Senator Campbell01:51Senator Campbell's Journey into Public Service05:35Insights from Sea Change Event08:13Waste to Jobs Program in Tennessee14:12Engaging with the Community and Future Plans18:08Challenges and Opportunities in Recyclinghttps://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approvedhttps://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.