In this episode, Lindy Hughson, Managing Editor & Publisher of PKN Packaging News, talks with Dr Elissa Foster, Head of Sustainability at Who Gives a Crap, about the challenges of sustainable packaging in multiple countries.

We begin our discussion by getting an overview of Elissa’s career, how Who Gives a Crap is reducing green house gas emissions, keeping forests intact, reducing water usage, and making sure their packaging is universally recyclable - whilst balancing design, marketing, and concessions that need to be made. We review how Who Gives a Crap educates their consumers about recycling, utilises APCO’s resources tools and portals, and how the feasibility of circular systems can be improved in Australia. The discussion also explores the rise in composting, the barriers faced incorporating sustainability into packaging initiatives, how government regulations can drive innovation, and how accessible transparency can help build trust with consumers.

We wrap up by looking ahead at what the next 5 years will look like for sustainable packaging in Australia, and get some advice for brand owners and packaging designers who are looking to improve the sustainability of their products.

Links:

Sponsor - Trimatt

www.trimatt.com - 03 8761 6171 - [email protected]

Who Gives a Crap

au.whogivesacrap.org

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The PKN Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of PKN Packaging News, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of PKN Packaging News, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media.

If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact PKN Packaging News via their website www.packagingnews.com.au or send an email to [email protected].

MC: Grant McHerron

Host: Lindy Hughson

Producer: Steve Visscher

Editor: Chris Visscher

PKN Packaging News - © 2025