PODCAST: USA Senator Heidi Campbell on EPR in Red States

Episode Title: US Senator Heidi Campbell on EPR in Red States and Tennessee’s Waste to Jobs Program

Guest: Senator Heidi Campbell, Tennessee State Senator

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 service
• The origin and goals of Tennessee’s Waste to Jobs program
• Why EPR legislation matters and how it can succeed in conservative states
• The role of Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) in harmonizing recycling efforts
• Challenges with landfill capacity and the Jackson Law in Tennessee
• Opportunities for businesses to lead in creating effective EPR models
• Insights from the See Change Sessions 2025 event and collaboration across industries
• The importance of harmonization to avoid 50 different EPR bills for brands
• Potential for deposit return systems and why beverage companies resist them
• How EPR can create jobs, reduce waste, and support a circular economy

Resources Mentioned:

• Tennessee Waste to Jobs initiative and film (nominated for a Nashville Film Award)
• Circular Action Alliance (current PRO for several states)
• Tennessee Environmental Council
• See Change Sessions and OPLN events

Contact:

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!

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