In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Julia Bialetska to discuss her journey from bioecology to tech, and ultimately to creating S.Lab — a company producing mycelium‑based packaging that replaces polystyrene. Julia shares how witnessing massive plastic pollution in Bali inspired her to take action, eventually leading to the development of a fully compostable, natural material made from plant waste and mushroom mycelium. She explains the environmental benefits, the challenges in certification and legislation, and the breakthrough technology behind S.Lab’s decentralized mini‑factories designed to eliminate freight and reduce CO₂ emissions. Julia also highlights her Women in Leadership Award, the team’s mission, and the growing demand for truly circular packaging solutions.Key Topics Discussed:Julia’s background in bioecology, software product management, and leadershipThe moment in Bali that motivated her to solve plastic pollution at scaleWhat mycelium is and how it binds plant waste to create a strong, natural packaging materialHow S.Lab’s material replaces polystyrene and other protective packagingBenefits of full home compostability and recent OK Home Compost certificationChallenges with industrial composting, legislation, and certification systemsUse cases across beauty, electronics, décor, and future food/pharma applicationsS.Lab’s patented technology enabling decentralized, on‑site mini‑factoriesHow eliminating freight reduces cost and emissionsThe importance of circularity, sustainability, and leadership in the packaging industryHow companies can partner with S.Lab or pilot a mini‑factoryResources Mentioned:S.Lab OK Home Compost certification (TÜV Austria)S.Lab’s: InstagramS.Lab's: LinkedInJulia Bialetska’s: LinkedInContact:Listeners can connect with Julia and the S.Lab team through their Website, LinkedIn, or Instagram. Julia welcomes direct outreach via LinkedIn.Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!Support our Sponsors Learn more here:⁃www.3M.com/sustainablepackaging⁃https://www.specright.com/Connect with CoryConnect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 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.