James Merrill is the Founder, CEO and the force behind Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics; and he is an unapologetic optimist about our ability to fix the worldwide plastics problem.

James has built these companies that don’t just talk about sustainability… they literally turn plastic waste into high-performance products. From discarded plastic water bottles to premium materials, his work sits at the intersection of sustainability, environmental impact, design, and innovative business.

James’ background is not what you might think. He did not grow up in the outdoor, action sports or fashion industries but deep in international assistance work; in some of the most heavily impacted (and most dangerous) regions on the planet. What he saw and experienced firsthand is what has led him to do the work he’s doing today.

James isn’t just focused on feeling or acting “green;” he’s obsessed with making an impact. Taking ocean found and ocean bound plastics out of the environment and turning them into materials that can compete at the highest levels of performance, durability and fashion is the future; and James is at the forefront of this technology.

James shares his path and how Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics came to life, what it really takes to turn trash into something people love.