260 - Colorado EPR and the Sustainability of Aluminum Cans: A Discussion with Cory Connors at NPE in Orlando, FL

People of Packaging Podcast

About the Guest(s):

In this episode, we have Cory Connors, the Director of Sustainable Packaging at Orora Packaging Solutions, and Adam Peek, a packaging and labelling specialist. Cory brings his expertise from the sustainability hub at the NPE show, contributing valuable insights on the latest trends in sustainable plastics and recycling practices. Adam, known for spearheading thought-provoking conversations in the packaging community, shares his experiences with experimenting in sustainable packaging solutions.

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About the Guest(s):

In this episode, we have Cory Connors, the Director of Sustainable Packaging at Orora Packaging Solutions, and Adam Peek, a packaging and labelling specialist. Cory brings his expertise from the sustainability hub at the NPE show, contributing valuable insights on the latest trends in sustainable plastics and recycling practices. Adam, known for spearheading thought-provoking conversations in the packaging community, shares his experiences with experimenting in sustainable packaging solutions.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging discussion on "Packaging TODAY," hosts Adam Peek and Cory Connors delve into pressing issues surrounding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and sustainable packaging innovations. From the sustainability hub at the NPE show in Orlando, Florida, Cory brings live updates and firsthand accounts of the latest advancements in recycling technologies and sustainable materials.

The episode kicks off with a candid moment featuring Adam's morning routine, leading into a deeper exploration of Colorado's EPR regulations and how brands can navigate them. With a looming deadline of July 1, 2024, Cory explains the importance of reaching out to the Circular Action Alliance for guidance on determining responsibility and proper registration.

Throughout the show, Adam and Cory address audience questions, providing clarity on the nuances of packaging recycling and product lifecycle. Notably, Adam presents an eye-opening experiment involving aluminum cans and their plastic liners, sparking a conversation about the true meaning of "recyclability" and the value of materials at the end of life.

Key Takeaways:

* Brands operating within Colorado, California, and Oregon must comply with EPR laws by registering with the Circular Action Alliance by July 1, 2024.

* Cory Connors is attending the NPE show, focusing on innovative recycling technologies and sustainable plastic materials.

* Aluminum cans often feature a thin plastic liner that, while not infinitely recyclable, plays a crucial role in product integrity and flavor preservation.

* Recycling isn't just about the technical ability to recycle but also includes the end-of-life value of the recycled material.

* Trek composite decking, made from recycled plastic and wood, is an example of creating sustainable products with extended lifecycles.

Notable Quotes:

* Cory Connors: "It kind of has to be an oligopoly…for this to work."

* Adam Peek: "We spent a lot of time in my side with labels talking about the impact that labels have on plastic recycling in impacting the value of the recycled product."

* Cory Connors: "[Trex deck] could be recycled again…I don't know anybody that has a Trex deck that's had to replace it in my lifetime."

Resources:

The Circular Action Alliance - circularactionalliance.org

Be sure to listen to the full episode for a comprehensive understanding of these top-of-mind issues in the packaging industry. Stay tuned for future conversations that promise to enlighten and inform.

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