Summary:In this episode, Cory Connors talks with Kate Bailey about the challenges and opportunities in plastics recycling. Kate shares her journey from college recycling jobs to becoming a leading voice in policy and design for sustainable packaging. The discussion covers practical steps brands can take, the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and why collaboration between designers, recyclers, and policymakers is critical for success.Key Topics Discussed:Kate’s background and career path in recycling and sustainabilityThe role and mission of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR)APR’s flagship resource: Design Guide for Plastics RecyclabilityHow packaging design impacts recycling efficiencyExtended Producer Responsibility (EPR): what it means and why it mattersPractical advice for brands navigating EPR lawsBenefits of EPR for recycling infrastructure, transparency, and design incentivesUsing recycled content as a key sustainability strategyBright spots in plastics recycling: domestic infrastructure growth, bottle-to-bottle recyclingThe evolving role of advanced (chemical) recycling and why mechanical recycling still leadsConsumer education and access: solving confusion and improving participationThe future of recycling systems: regional and national frameworks Resources Mentioned:Association of Plastic RecyclersAPR Design Guide for Plastics RecyclabilityU.S. Plastics PactOregon Recycling Modernization ActContact:Connect with Kate and her team at PlasticsRecycling.org or on LinkedIn.Closing Thoughts: Kate highlights that plastic recycling is effective and can become more successful through collaboration, thoughtful design, and aligned policies. She encourages companies to engage constructively with policymakers, leverage data for better packaging decisions, and embrace recycled content as a cornerstone of sustainability. Together, we can build a more efficient, transparent, and circular system for plastics.Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Plastic Recycling and Its Importance02:53 Kate Bailey's Journey into Recycling05:50 The Role of the Association of Plastic Recyclers08:40 Navigating Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)11:22 The Benefits of EPR for Recycling and Sustainability14:07 Designing for Recyclability: Best Practices16:50 Bright Spots in Plastics Recycling19:54 The Future of Chemical Recycling22:26 Access and Education in Recycling25:20 Conclusion and Call to Actionhttps://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approvedhttps://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.