Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic Packaging

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’ gro...

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 leveragi...

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 circular...

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 r...

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 a...

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 r...

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...

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 em...

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 innovatio...

https://smartsolve.com/ An amazing innovation from SmartSolve! With CEO and co-founder Jonathan Jakubowski and Director of Flexible Packaging Dr. Vidhu Nagpal  In this conversation, Jonathan Jakubowski discusses the intersection of faith and innovation within his company. He shares how their core values, particularly innovation, are grounded in scripture, specifically Jeremiah 33. Jakubowski recou...

Join us on November 6th, 2025 , for the third annual Coast Summit, as we celebrate the visionary leaders who are pioneering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This year’s theme, " Healthy People, Healthy Planet ," highlights the vital link between personal well-being and environmental regeneration. The Coast Summit brings together leaders from the worlds of su...

Join us on November 6th, 2025 , for the third annual Coast Summit, as we celebrate the visionary leaders who are pioneering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This year’s theme, " Healthy People, Healthy Planet ," highlights the vital link between personal well-being and environmental regeneration. The Coast Summit brings together leaders from the worlds of su...

Join us on November 6th, 2025 , for the third annual Coast Summit, as we celebrate the visionary leaders who are pioneering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This year’s theme, " Healthy People, Healthy Planet ," highlights the vital link between personal well-being and environmental regeneration. The Coast Summit brings together leaders from the worlds of su...

Join us on November 6th, 2025 , for the third annual Coast Summit, as we celebrate the visionary leaders who are pioneering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This year’s theme, " Healthy People, Healthy Planet ," highlights the vital link between personal well-being and environmental regeneration. The Coast Summit brings together leaders from the worlds of su...

https://www.worldpackaging.org/ What an honor to get to interview the president of the World Packaging Organization Luciana Pellegrino  Join us on November 6th, 2025 , for the third annual Coast Summit, as we celebrate the visionary leaders who are pioneering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This year’s theme, " Healthy People, Healthy Planet ," highlights t...

https://ampsortation.com/ The future is now with AMP sortation technology using AI tech and more!  Thank you CEO Tim Stuart for sharing your insights and wisdom about the present day and future of waste sortation.  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&ap...

https://kennedygray.com/collections/the-graymont-collection Check out the latest from this high quality clothing brand and how they partnered with  https://anewearthproject.com/pages/our-story to use sustainable packaging for their products.  Thank you  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevintillis/ and  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyn-tally/  for this great episode!  Connect with Cory Connect with Cory...

https://www.goodwill.org/ The future is bright with Goodwill Industries International  Over 4.4 Billion pounds of goods collected just last year!  How can Goodwill help keep even more out of the landfill?  Less thank 1% of textiles is recycled and that number could be over 60%!  Connect with Cory Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/ I'm here to help y...

https://www.atlanticpkg.com/ Summary In this episode of Sustainable Packaging, host Cory Connors interviews Wes Carter, president of Atlantic Packaging, discussing the company's legacy, the impact of Horace Carter, and the evolution of sustainable practices in packaging. They explore the birth of A New Earth Project, emphasizing the importance of consumer demand for sustainability and the int...

https://sustainablepackaging.org/events/ It was so much fun and a true honor to get to interview my friend Olga Kachook  As the Director of the Sustainable Packaging Coalition she has a lot on her plate and is doing amazing work.  More than just events they are working to solve a lot of sustainability issues and make things even smoother for consumers and business who are trying to do the right th...

https://www.metsagroup.com/metsaboard/ Is paper more sustainable than other packaging materials?  Thank you again kristen.clark@metsagroup.com  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...

Join Us this November 10-12 / 2025  https://www.packagingsummit.earth/2025 Save 20% with CORYC20 as your code!  A MUST ATTEND EVENT! See you there.  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 produc...

Demo Day for the International Fresh Produce Association new fresh Field Catalyst Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 Time: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM PT Location: Taylor Building, 150 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Salinas, California, USA Learn more about the Fresh Field Catalyst program and this year’s cohort here . https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/ Reach Out To : https://www...

Paris Packaging Week is not just one of the premier packaging events in the world.  It's also an opportunity to expand your career and help the younger team members gain recognition and improve their futures.  Apply for yourself or nominate a team member that under 30 years old  https://www.parispackagingweek.com/en/future-leaders-form/ Time is running out!  Connect with Cory Connect with Cor...

Join us at SeeChange'25 this September in Vermont!  https://www.seechangesessions.com/sept-25/ So thankful to be on the team at Atlantic Packaging and A New Earth Project with Don Meek.  https://www.atlanticpkg.com/ https://anewearthproject.com/pages/our-story What's the future of sustainable packaging?  How can brands get together with Atlantic Packaging and A New Earth Project to make...