Packaging Unboxd with Evelio Mattos

By The Packaging Design PodcastArts Design

Packaging Unboxd with Evelio Mattos episodes

July 01, 2024 The Future of Ocean Plastics | Ep 182
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About the Guest(s):
Tim Silman is the Program Director at Lonely Whale, a renowned organization dedicated to preventing ocean plastic pollution. Co-founded by actor Adrian Grenier in 2015, Lonely Whale leverages storytelling, modern marketing techniques, and collaborative partnerships to tackle ocean plastic pollution. Tim, based in Charlottesville, Virginia, leads innovative projects and campaigns focused on sustainable solutions, such as the Plastic Innovation Prize.
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Episode Summary:
Join Evelio Mattos in an insightful conversation with Tim Silman, Program Director at Lonely Whale. This episode dives deep into the issues of ocean plastic pollution, highlighting innovative initiatives and sustainable practices. Tim shares his journey, the mission of Lonely Whale, and how radical collaboration and modern marketing are creating new pathways toward a plastic-free ocean.
Lonely Whale focuses on reducing ocean plastic, with campaigns like "Stop Sucking" and initiatives like Nextway Plastics and the Ocean Heroes program. Tim discusses the impact of thin film plastics, innovative solutions using seaweed-derived materials, and the importance of biodegradable plastics. Brands are encouraged to integrate these new materials into their supply chains, with complex challenges of scaling these solutions being addressed through collaborative efforts.
Key Takeaways:
Urgency of Ocean Plastic Pollution: An estimated 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans yearly, expected to triple by 2040.
Lonely Whale's Strategic Approach: The organization uses storytelling, campaigns, and collaborations to drive change and innovate solutions for ocean plastics.
Innovative Alternatives: The Plastic Innovation Prize highlights seaweed-based biodegradable alternatives to thin film plastic, showcasing winners such as Sway, Zero Circle, and Notpla.
Role of Designers and Brands: Designers and brands play a crucial role in sustainability by integrating innovative materials and setting realistic yet ambitious goals.
Future Steps: Loneliness is focused on educating and expanding their initiatives while seeking new problematic materials to tackle in the fight against plastic pollution.
Notable Quotes:
"Our center has really been around leveraging storytelling and modern marketing techniques and radical collaboration with brands and other partners to change the trajectory of ocean plastic pollution." — Tim Silman
"It's a humongous problem. People may be familiar with the Pacific garbage patch, with the impact on marine life now emerging more on human health and climate." — Tim Silman
"Biodegradable doesn't actually mean anything. It's kind of industry greenwashing, unfortunately. Biologically degradable is a term we use to demarcate that." — Tim Silman
"Think about the consumer and their behavior, and how they interact with your product, to better incorporate sustainable design at the upfront." — Tim Silman
"Brands have to consider their storytelling, setting realistic targets and, if necessary, adjusting goals while maintaining transparency and authenticity with their customers." — Tim Silman
Resources:
Lonely Whale: lonelywhale.org
Unwrap the Future: unwrapthefuture.org
Instagram: @lonelywhale
Podcast: 52 Hz Podcast on Spotify
For more captivating conversations and sustainability insights, listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more episodes from our series.
7 min
June 27, 2024 When All Packaging Looks the Same Do this | Ep 181
Get help with your packaging from Evelio:
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About the Guest(s):
Simon Forster is the versatile founder and Creative Director at Robot Food, an award-winning branding and packaging design agency. With a keen interest in launching disruptive brands, Simon has successfully led numerous projects, both for clients and his own ventures. His deep understanding of retail strategy, consumer behavior, and creative branding makes him a notable expert in the field.
Connect with Simon: https:www.robot-food.com
Evelio Mattos is a seasoned designer and creative director known for his thought leadership in packaging design and branding. He frequently engages with industry experts to discuss challenges and trends in the design world through his podcast.
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Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode, Evelio Mattos converses with Simon Forster, the Creative Director of Robot Food. The discussion dives into the essence of what makes a brand disruptive, focusing on branding and packaging strategies that set brands apart from their competitors.
Simon shares valuable lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey, including the initial missteps and eventual pivot that led to the success of his skincare brand, Stories and Ink. Their conversation not only covers the practicalities of launching a brand but also delves into emotional branding and the power of resonating deeply with the target audience.
Simon draws from his extensive experience to highlight the intricacies of truly understanding one's consumer base and the importance of building a strong community around a brand. He emphasizes that disruption is not just about being loud and brash, but about cutting through the noise with authenticity and relevance. They also discuss the significance of tone of voice, copywriting, and creative flexibility in branding. Through real-life examples such as the Brooklyn Brewery rebrand, Simon illustrates how subtle yet strategic design changes can make a monumental impact in a crowded marketplace.
Key Takeaways:
Importance of Community: Building a brand starts with understanding and nurturing a community around it.
Subtle Disruption: Effective branding isn’t always about being the loudest; sometimes, the most subtle changes can create significant disruption.
Copywriting Matters: Quality copywriting is often undervalued but is crucial for a brand’s voice and resonance.
Learning from Mistakes: Early entrepreneurial missteps provide invaluable learning opportunities that shape future success.
Emotional Branding: Brands that tap into consumer emotions and values establish stronger loyalties.
27 min
June 24, 2024 Packaging Today - Are Bioplastics Just Vegan Plastics? | Ep 180
Amazon gets rid of their plastic air pillows and shifts to paper void fill packaging. Is paper actually better than plastic?
How companies making paper out of seaweed may be damaging the ocean floor in the race to replace fossil fuel plastic.
How New York defeat the latest plastic packaging bill and set the state back in its path to a sustainable future.
Get the latest in packaging industry news, stripped from the headlines with the industry's PVU (Packaging Victim's Unit) dun-dun.
Join Evelio, Cory, and Adam every week for a live discussion, terrible jokes, and a community environment to kick off your week.
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33 min
June 20, 2024 Are Design Awards Worth It? | Ep 179
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Simon Forster is the founder of Robot Food, a design and branding agency known for its disruptive and innovative approach. With a background in art and a history rooted in punk and skate culture, Simon has cultivated a reputation for questioning the status quo and pushing creative boundaries. His journey began with running a surfskate brand funded by Joey Ramone, marking the beginning of his love affair with branding. Today, Simon and his team at Robot Food are dedicated to creating impactful and standout strategies for their clients.
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Sustainable packaging that dissolves in water:
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Episode Summary:
In this thought-provoking episode, Simon Forster of Robot Food sits down with Evelio Mattos to discuss the controversial subject of design awards. Simon shares his critical views on the relevance and necessity of such accolades in the industry, outlining how awards can sometimes compromise the integrity of the work and may not ultimately benefit design agencies. The conversation touches on the cost implications and the often-overlooked downside of getting trapped in a cycle of constantly chasing awards. Simon's punk-rock ethos and commitment to authentic, disruptive design shine throughout the discussion, challenging the conventional wisdom around what it means to be successful in the design world.
Simon highlights the hefty financial burden of entering design awards and questions their true value to clients. He explains that his agency's growth and reputation have been built on delivering results rather than chasing recognition through awards. Simon emphasizes that clients prioritize results such as increased sales and brand impact over industry accolades. With a background that includes leading a skate brand funded by Joey Ramone, Simon blends his punk roots with his professional journey to foster a unique and rebellious approach at Robot Food, encouraging brands to stand out rather than conform.
Key Takeaways:
The Cost of Awards: Design awards come with significant entry fees and additional costs if you win, which can be a heavy burden for startups.
Client Priorities: Clients are more interested in tangible business results rather than whether an agency has won awards.
Disruptive Design: Success in design comes from questioning the norm and creating emotionally and visually disruptive work.
Agency Culture: A rebellious, questioning attitude within an agency can foster innovation and lead to standout work.
Alternative Recognition: Rather than seeking awards, Simon advocates for cutting through the noise by delivering exceptional client outcomes.
Dive into the full episode to explore these insights and more, as Simon Forster shares his candid perspectives on the design industry, the true value of awards, and the importance of staying disruptive. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from our podcast series!
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17 min
June 20, 2024Fighting Plastic Pollution with Tom Jackson | Ep 178
Discuss your packaging with Evelio Mattos

Tom Jackson is the co-founder of Honest Ocean, a company focused on managing the supply chains of recycled plastics from source to manufacturing. Based in Indonesia, Tom works closely with local communities and recycling centers to collect and process ocean-bound plastics, aiming to transform waste into valuable materials for various industries.
In this enlightening episode, Evelio Mattos sits down with Tom Jackson, co-founder of Honest Ocean, to discuss the harsh realities of plastic pollution in Indonesia and its devastating impact on the environment and local communities. Tom shares his journey from working on private superyachts to founding a company dedicated to recycling and repurposing ocean-bound plastic, offering insight into the complexities and challenges of the recycling process.
Throughout the conversation, Tom explains how Honest Ocean collaborates with local coastal communities to collect plastics, which are then processed and sold to brands committed to sustainability. He touches on the dire state of Indonesian beaches, clogged with waste, and highlights the importance of creating a circular economy. The episode delves into the technical aspects of processing different types of plastics and the efforts to find innovative solutions for unrecyclable waste. Tom also discusses the crucial role of technology and the need for significant investment to effectively tackle plastic pollution on a global scale.
Plastic Pollution Crisis: Indonesia’s beaches are inundated with plastic waste, significantly affecting local communities and the environment.

Community Collaboration: Honest Ocean empowers local communities by employing them in the collection and processing of ocean-bound plastics.

Comprehensive Recycling: The company processes a variety of plastics, including PET, PP, and HDPE, and is working on solutions for unrecyclable waste.

Impactful Partnerships: Brands can significantly contribute to environmental sustainability by sourcing recycled plastics from Honest Ocean, creating positive social and economic effects.

Innovative Solutions Needed: There is a pressing need for advanced technology and investment to manage and repurpose waste efficiently.
"Now you change it from fish to plastic and try to pay them, if not more than what they were getting it for before." - Tom Jackson

"The first seven to eight foot of the beach is plastic mixed in with that seaweed." - Tom Jackson

"United States, UK, Germany, we're all still exporting waste to countries like Indonesia." - Tom Jackson

"Changing lives through plastic collection, it's not just plastic recycling." - Tom Jackson

"We're not at that scale. You know, we do a couple of hundred tons a month, and that really takes up all of our time." - Tom Jackson
Tom Jackson on LinkedIn
Delve into the full episode to uncover the fascinating journey of turning ocean-bound plastic waste into valuable resources and the significant strides Honest Ocean is making towards a sustainable future. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes from our podcast/web series.
35 min
June 08, 2024 Designing Packaging that Dissolves | Ep 177
Get help with your next packaging design project from Evelio directly.
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Order packaging manufactured factory-direct from IDPdirect.com
Manage your packaging specifications globally with Specright.com
Learn more about dissolvable papers from Smartsolve.com
About the Guest(s):
Alex Abbott: Alex Abbott is the Director of Sales and Business Development at Smartsolve.com , a company renowned for its innovative water-soluble packaging solutions. With a rich background in rigid plastics, Alex brings a wealth of experience in packaging and sustainability. His expertise spans across sales strategy, product development, and fostering industry partnerships, making him a pivotal figure in steering Smartsolve’s mission towards more sustainable packaging solutions.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode, host Evelio Mattos sits down with Alex Abbott from Smartsolve to delve into the fascinating world of water-soluble packaging. They explore how Smartsolve's innovative materials, derived from FSC-certified wood and paper, can revolutionize the packaging industry by offering sustainable, compostable, and recyclable options. The conversation touches on the diverse applications of these materials, from personal care products to food packaging, aiming to eliminate traditional single-use plastics and enhance end-of-life outcomes for packaging.
Throughout the episode, Alex explains the science behind Smartsolve's dissolvable packaging and its implications for sustainability and circularity. The discussion ranges from the technical aspects of implementing these materials in existing manufacturing processes to the potential markets and products where Smartsolve's technology can make a significant impact. Key topics include the environmental benefits of water-soluble packaging, the versatility of Smartsolve's materials, and the exciting developments on the horizon for both the company and the broader packaging industry.
Key Takeaways:
Water-Soluble Technology: Smartsolve's innovative packaging solution dissolves upon contact with steady water, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic packaging.
Versatility in Applications: The material can be used for a variety of products, including personal care items, food packaging, laundry applications, and more.
End-of-Life Solutions: Smartsolve prioritizes end-of-life solutions, with their materials being flushable and comparable to toilet paper in terms of degradability, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Enhanced Recycling: The company has achieved APR certification, making their dissolvable labels compatible with current recycling systems without contaminating the waste stream.
Design and Consumer Experience: The technology opens up new possibilities for creative design and delightful consumer experiences, especially in applications like meal bars, stick packs, and single-use sachets.
Resources:
Smartsolve Website: smartsolve.com
Associated Plastic Recyclers (APR): Plastic Recyclers
Alex Abbott’s Email: [email protected]
Discover how Smartsolve's dissolvable packaging technology can redefine your approach to sustainable design. Tune in to this compelling episode for more insights and stay connected for future episodes featuring industry leaders and cutting-edge innovations.
45 min
May 23, 2024 Can Pyrolysis Rid Us of Plastic Packaging Waste? | Ep 176
Julian Brown, the founder of Nature Jab, is an innovator and environmental enthusiast who has developed a unique microwave pyrolysis reactor that converts plastic waste into different types of fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. A welder by training, Brown began his journey with a simple Google search during his high school years and has since advanced to building complex machinery designed to tackle the plastic waste problem. His work has garnered significant attention on social media platforms for its potential environmental impact and focus on sustainability.
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Episode Summary:
In this riveting episode, Evelio Mattos converses with Julian Brown, an ingenious inventor challenging the status quo of plastic waste management. Through the lens of Brown's groundbreaking creation, the microwave pyrolysis reactor, listeners are offered a paradigm shift in how we can transform waste into energy. Brown's passion for environmental sustainability echoes throughout the conversation, as he shares insights about the technology that could potentially revolutionize the way we address plastic pollution.
From the outset, Brown details his creative process, unveiling the evolution of his microwave pyrolysis reactor from inception to its current state. He elucidates on the technical aspects of pyrolysis, microwave heating, and the chemical processes in play as plastics are converted into valuable fuels. Revealing both the triumphs and tribulations, Brown provides a candid narrative of the challenges he has faced, including explosive experiments and the intricate electrical work involved in crafting such devices.
Key Takeaways:
Microwave Pyrolysis: Julian Brown developed a microwave pyrolysis reactor that efficiently converts plastic waste into usable fuels, highlighting a novel approach to recycling.
Energy Transformation: The process is energy-positive, producing more energy in the fuel output than is used to power the machine itself, promising a sustainable solution.
Scalability Potential: The conversation touches on Brown's vision of scaling up his prototype to industrial levels, aiming to combat ocean plastic pollution globally.
Public Support and Crowdfunding: Capturing the interest of online audiences, Brown's machine has been funded by the community, emphasizing the power of collective environmental action.
Notable Quotes:
"Microwaves, they heat really quickly. They heat from the inside out… They're very efficient. One of the most efficient forms of cooking." - Julian Brown on choosing microwave heating for his reactor.
"Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic carbon rings… They're longer chains, are heavier fractions, so they're always in the liquid product." - Julian Brown on how toxins are managed in the pyrolysis process.
"I truly believe that it's a crime that this technology is so well researched in science and it's been around for so long, and yet people are hearing about it for the first time through me." - Julian Brown on the need for greater awareness of pyrolysis technology.
"Mark five, my idea and my goal for that machine is going to be something similar… The first plant that will prove this technology's viability on an industrial, semi-industrial scale." - Julian Brown on his aspirations for the future of microwave pyrolysis reactors.
"The machine is only going to cost about a million dollars. So in theory, if I can make enough viral videos, I could just have the machine once again crowdfunded." - Julian Brown on funding the next phase of his project through the power of virality.
Resources:
Julian Brown's Social Media: Nature Jab
Evelio Mattos on LinkedIn:
40 min
May 20, 2024Reusable Packaging Doesn't Work / Packaging Today Show | Ep. 175
About the Guest(s):
In this episode of "Packaging Today," we welcomed esteemed guests Emilio Montos, Adam Peel, and Corey Connors. These professionals bring a wealth of knowledge from the packaging industry. Emilio Montos is an established figure in the landscape of packaging, with a background rich in innovation and sustainability. Adam Peel, known for his strategic insights, contributes to the conversation with his expertise in marketing and branding within the sector. Corey Connors rounds out the trio with his focus on packaging trends and best practices, sharing valuable perspectives gained from years of experience.
In this lively episode of "Packaging Today," the hosts dive deep into the complex world of packaging. With engaging banter and thought-provoking discussions, they tackle topics like reusable packaging, sustainability, and the economic realities of the industry. The conversation kicks off with a candid reflection on personal anecdotes and ventures into the challenges and potential of implementing reusable packaging systems in businesses.
The debate reveals the hard truths about the cost-effectiveness and practicality of reusable packaging. They discuss various industry attempts, from high-end grocery stores to fast-food giants, illuminating the numerous hurdles - from health code regulations to consumer behavior - companies face when transitioning to greener models. The conversation also touches on data management, tariffs, and legislation, making it a must-listen for packaging professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Reusable packaging presents economic and practical challenges for businesses attempting to implement sustainable practices.

The importance of standardization in reusable packaging systems and the role of legislation in impacting industry trends.

How consumer behavior and expectations affect the adoption and success of reusable packaging initiatives.

The discussion about data management in the packaging industry underscores the need for brands to have more control over their packaging data.

Concerns around health and safety regulations can hinder the adoption of reusable packaging formats in certain sectors, like the food industry.
"Legislation is definitely key, but it's also part of the issue. For example, if you're buying paper bags for the US, if you're importing them from anywhere around the planet…"

"If we're not delivering great packaging to stores, it's not competing, it's not selling products, and I'm not paying my mortgage."

"You have 168 hours every single week. You're awake for right around 115 of those hours…and you have 70 hours outside of work to do incredible stuff."

"We gotta make stuff that makes, that helps people make money. It's pretty trash that helps people sell products and be profitable."

"There's so much stuff that is like, there are some pretty low-hanging fruits that exist out there."
No specific resources, social media handles, URLs, or external references were mentioned explicitly during the content of this transcript.
Tune in to this episode of "Packaging Today" for an insightful discourse on the realities and obstacles of sustainable packaging. The seasoned panel provides nuanced perspectives that are sure to enlighten both established industry veterans and novice enthusiasts. Stay connected for more episodes that promise to delve into the innovations and quandaries of the packaging world.
36 min
May 13, 2024Is Liquid Death Infinitely Recyclable? Packaging Today Show | Ep 174
In this lively episode of "Packaging Today," hosts Evelio Mattos, Adam Peek, and Cory Connors engage in a frank and humorous discussion about the realities and misconceptions in the packaging industry. From personal anecdotes to tough industry critiques, the episode traverses various aspects of packaging, including recyclability, materials, and the swift pace of social media marketing.
The conversation kicks off with a debate on whether any packaging material can be considered 100% recyclable, with Peek ardently challenging the often misused marketing term "infinitely recyclable." The trio addresses the complexities of recycling and its dependability on consumer behavior and recycling infrastructure. Peek's exchange on LinkedIn with a CEO critiquing his views on recyclability leads to a broader examination of industry marketing practices and the importance of transparency with consumers.
No packaging material is 100% recyclable 100% of the time, and terms like "infinitely recyclable" are often misleading within marketing contexts.

Consumer education and ease of recycling are critical factors in improving recycling rates, even more so than the recyclability of the packaging itself.

There exists a notable inflexibility and reluctance in parts of the industry to embrace newer marketing strategies, including agile responses in social media.

Brand engagement on social media can lead to significant marketing opportunities if a company is quick to harness momentous events, as shown by Nike's example.

Packaging professionals should strive to stay informed and adaptable to the evolving landscape of consumer interaction and technology advancements.
36 min
May 04, 2024 Impossible Print Processes Every Packaging Designer Must Know | Ep 173
Learn more at https://www.sonderegger.ch
Get your free How to Design Sustainable Packaging Guide here:
https://idpdirect.com
Manage your brand's packaging specifications here:
https://specright.com

Learn more about dissolvable papers and label stock here: http://smartsolve.com
Connect with our host:
Evelio Mattos: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eveliomattos/
This conversation is an exploration of the craftsmanship behind extraordinary packaging designs and structures that are changing the face of the industry. In this enthralling episode, listeners have the unique opportunity to uncover the world of precision and innovation with Dimitri and Bruno Sonderegger from Sonderegger AG. The Sondereggers challenge conventional design and structure norms, intriguing the audience with tales of laser engraving, micro embossing, and foiling.
The episode unveils the history of their company, starting from the manufacture of x-ray envelopes to progressing into a niche market of high-quality print products. The dynamic duo emphasizes their philosophy of pushing past perceived limits to discover new possibilities in design and function. The artistry within their work is apparent through descriptions of their precise embossing techniques and their bold approach to experimenting with printing on unconventional materials. Their narrative is one of creativity, risk-taking, and relentless pursuit of the exceptional.
Key Takeaways:
* Sonderegger AG specializes in creating unique and high-quality print products, often employing advanced techniques like laser engraving, micro embossing, and hot foil stamping.
* The company prides itself on pushing the limits of print and packaging design to discover what's possible and regularly goes beyond traditional boundaries to establish new standards.
* Technological innovation is at the heart of Sonderegger AG, as they explore and combine traditional machinery with cutting-edge processes for groundbreaking results.
* They have a history rooted in family tradition while being future-focused, translating into a rich understanding of the craft and its potential evolution.
* Sonderegger AG values experimentation and collaboration with clients and designers, seeking out those willing to take risks to create unique and memorable
53 min

About Packaging Unboxd with Evelio Mattos

From the publisher's feed

Packaging Unboxd is a podcast for packaging design enthusiasts who want to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices. Hosted by Evelio Mattos, the Creative Director of Packaging Design, this podcast features insights from global experts on topics such as sustainable packaging, materials, manufacturing, and recycling. Listeners can learn how to create designs that are not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible. Whether you're a packaging designer, engineer, or interested in making sustainable packaging choices.