PODCAST: Sustainable Packaging Coalition is more than events with Olga Kachook (Director of the SPC)

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.

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