Welcome to the Sustainable Design Lab podcast by Veritiv. Hosted by Chris Bradley and Brodie Vander Dussen, this show is your go-to resource for cutting-edge insights into the world of sustainable packaging. Join us as we reimagine packaging innovation and turn every decision into a powerful act of sustainability.

In this episode, Chris and Brodie walk through the 10 biggest sustainable packaging trends shaping 2026, based on insights gathered from hundreds of suppliers, prototypes, regulatory developments, and real-world design challenges.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to leverage fiber-based formats as a competitive advantage
• Why natural polymers represent required innovation in 2026
• How specialty coatings unlock fiber functionality
• The path to premium sustainability
• How to build circular systems from day one
  
  

Chris Bradley is the Chief Marketing Officer at Veritiv and co-host of the Sustainable Design Lab podcast. As a leading authority in sustainable packaging innovation, he specializes in helping companies navigate Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations and develop cost-effective sustainable packaging solutions. Chris's expertise spans packaging design optimization, regulatory compliance, and sustainable material innovation, making him uniquely qualified to guide businesses through the emerging landscape of EPR legislation.

Brodie Vander Dussen is the Senior Manager of the Sustainable Design Lab at Veritiv and co-host of the Sustainable Design Lab podcast, recognized for her expertise in sustainable packaging innovation and circular economy principles. With vast experience evaluating suppliers, analyzing emerging materials, and identifying industry trends, she brings practical insights into how brands can transition from sustainability aspirations to executable design strategies.

The information presented in this episode is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Sustainable Design Lab is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so 

Previous guests include: Sam Boex & Bella Collins of Flexi-Hex, Nathan Pajka of Metsä Board, John Felts of Cruz Foam

Check out our three most downloaded episodes:

1. Plastic-Free Paper Packaging: Flexi-Hex on Designing for Luxury and Sustainability
2. How Metsä Board Is Redesigning Packaging From Forest to Shelf with Nathan Pajka
3. The Future of Foam: Compostable Materials That Perform with John Felts