In this episode, Cory Connors speaks with environmental artist Benjamin Von Wong, known for large-scale installations that elevate global conversations around plastic pollution, climate change, and overconsumption. Ben shares his unusual path from mining engineering to purpose-driven art and discusses how creative storytelling can bring attention, urgency, and emotional connection to complex environmental issues. He reflects on his United Nations installation The Thinker’s Burden, his involvement in Extended Producer Responsibility initiatives, and his recent collaboration with the World Economic Forum and Atlantic Packaging.Key Topics Discussed:Ben’s transition from mining engineer to environmental artistCreating The Thinker’s Burden at the United NationsHow art influences climate and plastics treaty discussionsOverconsumption, reuse, and systemic changeEPR visualization at See Change 2025GAEA Awards collaboration with the World Economic ForumSustainable packaging partnership with Atlantic PackagingUpcoming climate-focused installations at future COPsResources Mentioned:Ocean Plastic Leadership NetworkGlobal Plastics TreatySee ChangeWorld Economic Forum – GAEA AwardsCruz Foam sustainable foamAtlantic Packaging & A New Earth ProjectContact:Connect with Benjamin Von Wong:Website: vonwong.comInstagramLinkedInClosing Thoughts:Cory and Benjamin reflect on how creativity, storytelling, and collaboration can help shift the global sustainability conversation in meaningful ways, highlighting the unique role each person plays in influencing change. Ben emphasizes that art may not directly alter policy, but it can move people emotionally and create shared understanding—often the first step toward action. Together, they discuss the importance of hope, innovation, and cross‑sector partnerships in addressing complex environmental challenges, encouraging listeners to recognize their own ability to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!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 and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.