Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic Packaging

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.comInstagramLinkedInClosing 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!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.

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: LinkedIn3M: LinkedIn3M sustainable packaging tapes and automation equipmentContact: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!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.

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 journeyResources Mentioned:Lorax EPI website: loraxcompliance.comLorax EPI LinkedIn pageCircular Action Alliance webinarsContact:Reach out to Lydia and her team:Email: lgeddes@loraxcompliance.comInfo: info@loraxcompliance.comWebsite: loraxcompliance.comClosing 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!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.

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.ioLinkedIn: KIUD Company PageEU 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://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.

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 organizationSungai Design — recycled‑plastic furniture brandContact:Email: gary@sungaiwatch.comWebsite: sungaiwatch.comLinkedIn: Gary BencheghibClosing 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://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.