Episode Title: Legacy, Leadership, and the New Earth Project with Wes Carter

Guest: Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging & Founder of A New Earth Project

Summary

In this special relaunch episode, host Cory Connors welcomes Wes Carter, President of Atlantic Packaging and founder of A New Earth Project. Wes shares his personal journey, the history of Atlantic Packaging, and the powerful legacy of his grandfather, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Horace Carter, whose courageous stand for civil rights shaped the company’s values. The conversation explores why sustainable packaging is now at the heart of Atlantic’s mission and how the New Earth Project is driving industry change.

Key Topics Discussed

• Wes Carter’s background and family legacy in Tabor City, North Carolina
• The story of Horace Carter, the Tabor City Tribune, and the fight for civil rights
• Atlantic Packaging’s evolution from a local newspaper to a national packaging leader
• The impact of automation, efficiency, and sustainability on packaging
• The founding and vision of A New Earth Project
• How outdoor experiences and environmental awareness inspired Wes’s advocacy
• The role of consumer demand in driving sustainable change
• Atlantic’s health and wellness programs and commitment to employee well-being
• The launch of New Earth Ventures and investment in nature-based materials
• Advice for brands and packaging professionals: serving the greater good and building a legacy

Resources Mentioned

• A New Earth Project YouTube channel (including Journey to a New Earth and The Editor and the Dragon documentary narrated by Morgan Freeman)
• Atlantic Packaging’s Solution Center in Charlotte, NC
• New Earth Ventures and sustainable packaging technologies (seaweed, mycelium, hemp)
• Sponsors: SpecRight, Cruz Foam, Fishbone

Contact

Listeners can connect with Wes Carter on LinkedIn (Wes Carter Atlantic) and Instagram (@WesMCarter). Follow A New Earth Project on Instagram for updates and stories. For more information about Atlantic Packaging and the New Earth Project, visit their respective websites and social channels.

Closing Thoughts

Cory and Wes reflect on the importance of legacy, sustainability, and collective action in the packaging industry. They encourage listeners—brands, packaging companies, and consumers—to work together for a healthier, more harmonious future. Tune in next week for an inspiring conversation with Sydney Munoz, Sustainability Manager at Goodwill International.

Thank you for tuning in to the Sustainable Packaging Podcast with Cory Connors!

___

Podcast Show Notes: Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors
Episode Title: Data-Driven Sustainability with Olga Kachook
Guest: Olga Kachook, Director at the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC), GreenBlue

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes back Olga Kachook to dive into the latest research and initiatives from the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. Olga shares insights from SPC’s recent data collection efforts on store drop-off recycling, composting access, and consumer understanding of recycled content. The conversation highlights the importance of data transparency, consumer education, and industry collaboration in advancing sustainable packaging.

Key Topics Discussed:

• SPC’s research on store drop-off recycling access and participation
• Consumer awareness and behavior around flexible plastic recycling
• The role of the How2Recycle label in driving recycling action
• Challenges and progress in compostable packaging and composting infrastructure
• New data showing 36% of U.S. population has access to composting programs
• Private sector innovation in hard-to-recycle material collection
• Confusion between recycled content and recyclability among consumers
• Research showing recycled content is the most valued sustainability attribute when explained clearly
• Upcoming SPC Advance event in Boston (Sept 29–Oct 1) and its focus on EPR, recycled content, and labeling

Resources Mentioned:

• Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC)
• How2Recycle Label Program
• SPC Advance Event in Boston
• Compost Now, Ridwell, Recyclops, TerraCycle

Contact:
For more information on SPC’s research and upcoming events, visit the Sustainable Packaging Coalition website or attend SPC Advance in Boston.

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Olga reflect on the positive momentum in the sustainable packaging space, emphasizing the power of data, education, and collaboration. They encourage listeners to stay informed, get involved, and help drive meaningful change in the packaging industry.

___

Podcast Show Notes: Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors
Episode Title: Why Is Paper a Sustainable Material? Featuring Metsa Board’s Kristen Clark
Guest: Kristen Clark, Communications Manager at Metsa Board

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Kristen Clark to explore why paper, especially paperboard from Metsä Board, is a sustainable packaging material. Kristen shares her journey from consumer packaged goods marketing to her current role at Metsa Board, highlighting the company’s deep commitment to sustainability and innovation. The conversation covers forest management, circular manufacturing practices, and the role of paperboard in replacing plastic packaging.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Kristen’s career path from CPG marketing to sustainable paperboard
• Overview of Metsä Group and its cooperative model with 90,000 Finnish forest owners
• How Metsä Board uses every part of the tree to minimize waste
• Bioenergy generation from bark and branches
• Reforestation practices: planting 4–7 trees for every one harvested
• Lightweight yet strong paperboard that reduces carbon footprint
• Circular side-stream applications, including animal bedding and soil improvement
• Metsä Board’s goal to be fossil-free by 2030 (currently 89% there)
• Water efficiency and process improvements
• Paperboard’s role as a plastic alternative and common missteps in adoption
• Metsä Board’s packaging design teams in Finland and the U.S.
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws and their impact on paper recycling
• Virgin vs. recycled fiber: why both are needed for a healthy recycling loop
• How to get in touch with Kristen and Metsä Board’s design and sales teams
• Upcoming events: Pack Expo Las Vegas (Booth SL19014) and Core Expo in Savannah

Resources Mentioned:

• Metsa Board Americas LinkedIn Page: Visit Metsa Board Americas 
• Kristen Clark: Connect on LinkedIn
• Pack Expo Las Vegas 2025 (Booth SL19014): Event Info & Registration | Booth Details 
• Core Expo Savannah 2025 (Corrugated Conference): CorrExpo Official Site 

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Kristen emphasize the importance of collaboration, innovation, and education in advancing sustainable packaging. They encourage brands to explore paperboard as a viable alternative to plastic and to reach out for design support and guidance.

___

Podcast Show Notes: Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors
Episode Title: Sustainable Packaging Summit Utretch Netherlands November 10-12 , 2025
Guest: Tim Sykes, Brand Director of Packaging Europe

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes back Tim Sykes to discuss the upcoming Sustainable Packaging Summit, the evolving role of Packaging Europe, and the global challenges and innovations shaping the packaging industry. Tim shares insights into the summit’s new location in Utrecht, the growing importance of networking, and the expanded focus on international collaboration and emerging technologies.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The mission of Packaging Europe as an educational platform for the packaging value chain
• Strategic challenges in packaging and the increasing importance of sustainability
• The move to Utrecht and the summit’s growth from 250 to 750+ attendees
• Enhancing networking opportunities and social events at the summit
• Global perspectives: partnerships with the Sustainable Packaging Coalition and Chinese innovators
• Key panels including long-term sustainability goals (2045), geopolitical impacts, and regulatory landscapes
• Participation from global stakeholders including Africa, Latin America, India, and Australia
• Innovations in packaging materials, reuse case studies, and paper bottle technologies
• Expanded exhibition space featuring academic research, startup zones, and curated networking
• Launch of the Emerging Tech Zone hosted by Cory Connors
• The importance of diverse voices and cross-sector collaboration
• How to register and access a 20% discount using code CORYC20 at https://packagingsummit.earth/2025

Resources Mentioned:

• Sustainable Packaging Summit
• Packaging Europe
• Sustainable Packaging Coalition
• European Union’s Commissioner for the Environment, Jessika Roswall

Contact:
Listeners can learn more and register at https://packagingsummit.earth/2025 or follow Packaging Europe on LinkedIn for updates.

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Tim highlight the summit’s role as a global hub for sustainable packaging innovation and collaboration. They encourage professionals across the value chain to attend, engage, and contribute to shaping the future of packaging.

___

Episode Title: Driving Innovation in Produce Packaging with Vonnie Estes
Guest: Vonnie Estes, Vice President of Innovation at the International Fresh Produce Association

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors talks with Vonnie Estes about her journey from plant pathology to leading innovation in the produce industry. Vonnie shares insights into her role at IFPA, the importance of technology in agriculture, and the challenges of creating sustainable packaging solutions for fresh produce. She also highlights the USDA-funded Fresh Field Catalyst Program and its mission to reduce single-use plastics in packaging while maintaining food safety and reducing waste.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Vonnie’s background in agriculture and technology commercialization
• The role of the International Fresh Produce Association in driving innovation
• Overview of the Fresh Field Catalyst Program and its USDA funding
• Challenges of replacing single-use plastics in produce packaging
• Upcoming Demo Day event in Salinas, CA on August 20
• Examples of innovative solutions, including compostable tags and algae-based coatings
• The impact of global regulations and non-tariff trade barriers on packaging
• Opportunities for companies to secure future funding for sustainable packaging projects

Resources Mentioned:

• International Fresh Produce Association
• Fresh Field Catalyst Program
• USDA Grant for Sustainable Packaging Innovation
• Companies featured in the program: Kwik Lock, Sway

Contact:
For more information or to attend the Demo Day event, reach out to Vonnie Estes via LinkedIn.

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Vonnie stress the urgency of developing sustainable packaging solutions that balance environmental responsibility with food safety and quality. They encourage innovators and industry leaders to collaborate and take advantage of funding opportunities to accelerate change in the produce sector.

___

Episode Title: Future Leaders & Paris Packaging Week with Noura Moussa
Guest: Noura Moussa, Head of Marketing, Paris Packaging Week (Easyfairs)

Summary

Host Cory Connors welcomes Noura Moussa to dive into her path in marketing and her new role leading marketing for Paris Packaging Week. Noura shares why she fell in love with the show’s community-first energy, explains how the event creates space for real conversations and relationships, and spotlights the Future Leaders program—an under‑30 initiative designed to boost confidence, visibility, and networks for rising talent. The conversation also previews the next edition of Paris Packaging Week (a two-day show in the heart of Paris, February 5–6, 2026), growth highlights, and a new Innovation Awards Party the evening before the show.

Key Topics Discussed

• Noura’s background in marketing: A decade across tech, labeling, and packaging; passion for how marketing shapes culture and behavior; two years leading PR for Paris Packaging Week before stepping into the head of marketing role with Easyfairs.
• What makes Paris Packaging Week different: A curated, comfortable experience with abundant seating and lounges (including a VIP lounge), social moments (coffee, mimosas, champagne hours), and an environment that fosters thoughtful, unhurried conversations.
• Who attends: A diverse, cross‑functional community from cosmetics, premium drinks, aerosols, and luxury—including suppliers, brands, designers, and engineers—driving cross‑pollination of ideas and genuine inspiration.
• Dates & place: A two‑day event in Paris, February 5–6, 2026, bringing the global packaging community together to see “what’s new, what’s next, and what’s making waves.”
• Future Leaders program (under 30):
  • Purpose: Recognize and amplify young professionals shaping packaging today and tomorrow—building confidence, visibility, and networks.
  • Experience: On‑stage speaking during the show, media exposure (e.g., Premium Beauty News and this podcast), mentoring by jury members Emmanuel Bundi, thi de Boff, and Gerald Martinez, and access to VIP networking.
  • Industry access: Encounters with experts and decision‑makers from leading brands such as Chanel, Bulgari, and Unilever.
  • Alumni community: Ongoing connection via LinkedIn and WhatsApp groups; more meetups planned as the program evolves.
• How to apply/nominate: Visit the event website → Visit → Future Leaders → Apply Here. One form (self‑apply or nominate); ~15–20 minutes; prompts include experience, challenges in packaging, five‑year vision, and thoughts on the future of packaging.
• Growth highlights: ~17,000 visitors at the 2025 edition; exhibitors growing from ~630 two years ago to nearly 900 for the coming edition—underscoring the show’s momentum and relevance.
• New this year: An Innovation Awards Party the evening before the show (February 4), a relaxed celebration in a luxurious central‑Paris venue—designed as a “different rhythm” to reconnect before two densely packed days on the floor.

Resources Mentioned

• Paris Packaging Week — Event details, registration, and Future Leaders application: Visit → Future Leaders → Apply Here
• Future Leaders Program — Under‑30 recognition, speaking platform, mentoring, VIP access, and alumni community: https://www.parispackagingweek.com/en/future-leaders/?
• Premium Beauty News — Media partner offering exclusive interviews for Future Leaders
• Easyfairs — Organizer of Paris Packaging Week

Contact

• Future Leaders & Event Inquiries: Use the application and contact pathways on the Paris Packaging Week website.
• Guest: Connect with Noura Moussa via professional channels (e.g., LinkedIn) or through the event team.

Closing Thoughts

Cory and Noura celebrate how Paris Packaging Week blends community, comfort, and serious industry substance, creating a rare environment where partnerships deepen and new ideas take root. If you’re building a global packaging network—or launching your career—the Future Leaders program and the February 2026 edition are can’t‑miss opportunities.

___

Podcast Show Notes: Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors
Episode Title: Radical Collaboration & Packaging Innovation with Don Meek
Guest: Don Meek, Managing Director of The New Earth Project

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Don Meek, Managing Director of A New Earth Project, to discuss his unconventional journey into the packaging world, the power of storytelling in sustainability, and the exciting initiatives shaping the future of sustainable packaging. Don shares how a background in media and a serendipitous meeting with Wes Carter led him to Atlantic Packaging and the founding of A New Earth Project. Together, they explore the evolution of packaging as a brand attribute, the importance of actionable innovation, and the upcoming See Change Sessions PACKAGING MATTERS 2025 event in Vermont.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Don’s transition from media to sustainable packaging
• The origin story of A New Earth Project and its surf-industry roots
• The collaborative culture at Atlantic Packaging and leadership from Wes and Rusty Carter
• See Change Sessions 2025: a unique event series focused on sustainability and innovation
• The PACKAGING MATTERS track at See Change and its focus on compostability, packaging standards, and brand ethics
• Workshops led by industry leaders including Lisa VanBladeren of Yeti, Matt Saunders of New Earth Ventures, and a track all about Extended Producer Responsibility led by Dave Ford of the Ocean Plastic Leadership Network
• The role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation and the push for “intelligent EPR”
• Total Cost of Ownership: how sustainable packaging can reduce costs through efficiency gains
• Real-world success stories, including packaging redesigns for IBIS Cycles and surfboard packaging using the S3 System
• The importance of aligning procurement and sustainability goals within organizations

Resources Mentioned:

• See Change Sessions: September 17–18, 2025, at Hula in Burlington, Vermont: https://www.seechangesessions.com/tracks/packaging-matters.html
• A New Earth Project: https://anewearthproject.com/
• Ocean Plastic Leadership Network (OPLN): https://opln.org/
• Atlantic’s Packaging Solution Center: https://www.atlanticpkg.com/packaging_solution_center/
• Contact Don Meek at dmeek@anewearthproject.com for more information

Contact:
For more details on See Change Sessions or to get involved in the PACKAGING MATTERS track, visit the See Change Sessions website or reach out to Don directly.

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Don reflect on the power of radical collaboration, the need for scalable and effective solutions, and the importance of bringing diverse voices together to tackle the packaging industry’s biggest challenges. This episode is a call to action for sustainability leaders, procurement professionals, and innovators to join the movement and help shape a more sustainable future.

___

Podcast Show Notes: Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors
Episode Title: Reinventing Packaging with Nick Paget of Meadow
Guest: Nick Paget, Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer at Meadow

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Nick Paget to explore Meadow’s groundbreaking approach to sustainable packaging. Nick shares his journey from industrial design studies at Pratt Institute to co-founding Meadow in Stockholm, Sweden. The conversation dives into Meadow’s mission to combat the global waste crisis through innovative packaging solutions, including their flagship technology—the Meadow Kapsul.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Nick’s background in industrial design and entry into the packaging industry
• Founding Meadow with co-founders Peter and Victor and their shared mission
• The Meadow Kapsul: a new packaging format based on the beverage can
• Benefits of aluminum cans: recyclability, familiarity, and infrastructure
• Design innovations: removal of pull tabs, daisy top for safety, and mess-free refill
• User experience: sound, aroma, and inclusive design for accessibility
• Applications across categories: personal care, cleaning products, supplements, hospitality
• Deposit return systems and regulatory considerations
• Strategic partnership with Ball Corporation
• Launch plans and upcoming availability in UK retail
• Meadow’s upcoming portal for brands, fillers, and designers

Resources Mentioned:

• Meadow Kapsul technology: https://meadow.global/innovation
• Ball Corporation (strategic partner): https://www.ball.com/
• Paris Packaging Week: https://www.parispackagingweek.com/
• Meadow Global (for more information and portal access): https://meadow.global/

Contact:
Listeners interested in Meadow’s products or partnership opportunities can visit Meadow Global or reach out via the links provided in the episode.

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Nick highlight the importance of user-centered design, sustainability, and collaboration in driving packaging innovation. Meadow’s approach offers a scalable, recyclable, and consumer-friendly solution that could reshape how we think about packaging across industries.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

Podcast Show Notes: Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Presented by Atlantic Packaging

Episode Title: Reinventing Reusables: The Koor Story with Jean Francois Roiron

Guest: Jean Francois Roiron, Founder of Koor

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors speaks with Jean Francois Roiron, a process engineer turned packaging innovator and founder of Koor. Jean shares the inspiration behind his reusable and refillable packaging invention, designed to reduce single-use plastic waste while maintaining convenience. The conversation explores how Koor’s syringe-bottle hybrid design is revolutionizing packaging for food, personal care, and even industrial applications. Jean also discusses the unexpected accessibility benefits of his product and his vision for global impact through partnerships and circular systems.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Jean’s background in process engineering and transition into packaging
• The environmental impact of single-use packaging, especially for children
• The origin and meaning of the name “Koor”
• How Koor’s refillable syringe-bottle hybrid works
• Applications for food (yogurt, applesauce, honey), personal care (shampoo, sunscreen), and industrial use (glue, paint)
• Low-tech and automated refill station concepts
• Circular systems for home and retail refilling
• Accessibility benefits for people with disabilities
• Koor’s potential in developing countries to replace sachet packaging
• The importance of repairability and dishwasher-safe design
• Jean’s call for partners and distributors to scale Koor globally

Resources Mentioned:

• Koor website: https://koor.life/
• Refill station prototypes and use cases: https://koor.life/pages/refill-options
• Accessibility use cases for people with limited mobility: https://koor.life/pages/accessibility

Contact:
Listeners interested in partnering with Jean or learning more about Koor can visit the website or reach out via the contact form provided there.

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Jean highlight the power of innovation in solving real-world problems—from reducing plastic waste to improving accessibility. Jean’s story is a testament to how engineering, empathy, and entrepreneurship can come together to create meaningful change in the packaging industry.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

___

Contact Us at Atlantic Packaging Today for Smart Strategies, Sustainable Solutions
Innovative Packaging You Can Trust for Over 75 Years!
🌐 https://atlanticpkg.com/
🌍 https://anewearthproject.com/

🎙️ Join Us Live Daily on LinkedIn or YouTube, or listen at your leisure on Apple or Spotify:
🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/6dksVwqEFVDWdggd27fyFF?si=e924995740f94e19

💬 I’m here to help you make your packaging more sustainable!
Reach out today and I’ll get back to you ASAP.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

This podcast is an independent production. All content is original work and copyright 2022. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained.

Podcast Show Notes: Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Presented by Atlantic Packaging

Episode Title: Exploring Sustainable Packaging and Education with Ed Draper

Guest: Ed Draper, Executive Director of Washington Pulp and Paper Foundation

Summary:
In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Ed Draper to discuss his journey in the forest products industry, his role in education, and the importance of sustainability. Ed shares his background, starting from Aberdeen, Washington, and his early exposure to the industry through his father. He explains how he got into paper science and engineering at the University of Washington, his career at Sonoco Products, and his involvement with Sustainable Fiber Technologies.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Ed’s educational and professional journey in the pulp and paper industry
• The role of the Washington Pulp and Paper Foundation in supporting students
• The evolution of the paper science program into a multidisciplinary engineering curriculum
• Applications and properties of various fibers including wood, recycled, and agricultural waste
• The sulfite pulping process and its byproducts
• Efficiency and sustainability in paper manufacturing
• The University of Washington’s lab capabilities for packaging innovation
• Misconceptions about paper packaging and its recyclability
• The importance of standardized recycling policies
• Advice for students interested in sustainable packaging careers

Resources Mentioned:

• Washington Pulp and Paper Foundation: https://uwwppf.org/
• University of Washington’s Bio Resource Science and Engineering program: https://sefs.uw.edu/students/undergraduate/bse-major/
• Sustainable Fiber Technologies: https://sustainablefibertechnologies.com/

Contact:
Listeners interested in the program or lab tours can reach out to Ed Draper via email (eadraper@UW.edu).

Closing Thoughts:
Cory and Ed emphasize the importance of sustainability, innovation, and education in the packaging industry. They encourage students and professionals to explore opportunities in sustainable packaging and contribute to a more environmentally friendly future.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

____

Contact Us at Atlantic Packaging Today for Smart Strategies, Sustainable Solutions
Innovative Packaging You Can Trust for Over 75 Years!
🌐 https://atlanticpkg.com/
🌍 https://anewearthproject.com/

🎙️ Join Us Live Daily on LinkedIn or YouTube, or listen at your leisure on Apple or Spotify:
🎧 https://open.spotify.com/show/6dksVwqEFVDWdggd27fyFF?si=e924995740f94e19

💬 I’m here to help you make your packaging more sustainable!
Reach out today and I’ll get back to you ASAP.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

This podcast is an independent production. All content is original work and copyright 2022. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained.