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 serviceThe origin and goals of Tennessee’s Waste to Jobs programWhy EPR legislation matters and how it can succeed in conservative statesThe role of Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) in harmonizing recycling effortsChallenges with landfill capacity and the Jackson Law in TennesseeOpportunities for businesses to lead in creating effective EPR modelsInsights from the See Change Sessions 2025 event and collaboration across industriesThe importance of harmonization to avoid 50 different EPR bills for brandsPotential for deposit return systems and why beverage companies resist themHow EPR can create jobs, reduce waste, and support a circular economyResources Mentioned:Tennessee Waste to Jobs initiative and film (nominated for a Nashville Film Award)Circular Action Alliance (current PRO for several states)Tennessee Environmental CouncilSee Change Sessions and OPLN eventsContact: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!Chapters00:00Introduction to Sustainable Packaging and Senator Campbell01:51Senator Campbell's Journey into Public Service05:35Insights from Sea Change Event08:13Waste to Jobs Program in Tennessee14:12Engaging with the Community and Future Plans18:08Challenges and Opportunities in Recyclinghttps://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.