Good Garbage with Ved Krishna

Hello, hello!In this episode of the Good Garbage Podcast, host Ved Krishna sits down with Sandeep Kulkarni, Founder of Kool Earth Solutions and a global expert in sustainable packaging.With experience spanning PepsiCo’s Advanced Research team, packaging innovation, and circular economy systems, Sandeep brings a rare insider perspective into how materials, business realities, and sustainability intersect.🎙️ What This Episode ExploresThis conversation goes beyond buzzwords like eco-friendly and biodegradable — and dives into the real science, trade-offs, and economics behind packaging materials.From paper bottles to plastic recycling, molded fiber, and biopolymers, Sandeep explains why there is no perfect material — only better decisions depending on context.If you’ve ever wondered:- Can paper really replace plastic?- Is glass actually more sustainable?- What happens to your plastic bottle after you throw it away?This episode answers it — honestly.🧠 In This Episode, You’ll Learn• Why paper packaging isn’t as simple as it seems• The real difference between plastic, glass, and paper• How PepsiCo approached packaging innovation• Why recycling systems matter more than materials• The truth about bioplastics (PLA, PHA)• Why molded fiber hasn’t scaled yet• How barriers (oxygen, moisture) define packaging success• Why there is no one-size-fits-all solution in sustainability⏱️ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sandeep Kulkarni01:30 Journey into PepsiCo & Advanced Research04:50 Paper vs Plastic: Benefits & Challenges07:45 Understanding hermetic sealing09:40 Glass vs Plastic vs Paper comparison17:30 Recycling systems: India vs global21:30 What happens to plastic bottles23:50 Chemicals in plastics explained26:00 Evolution of paper packaging28:40 Molded fiber: potential vs limits31:30 Designing sustainable packaging39:30 Why bioplastics struggle to scale44:30 Starbucks Cup Challenge insights50:30 Molded fiber cups: challenges55:30 EPS vs paper debate58:50 Reality of disposable chai cups01:01:15 India’s recycled plastic policy01:04:00 Multi-layer packaging challenges01:08:00 Real-world failures in sustainable packaging01:13:00 Designing the “perfect” wrapper01:19:00 Can paper fully replace plastic?01:23:00 Future of biopolymers01:27:00 Purpose behind sustainability work01:30:30 What gives hope for the future🎬 CreditsProducer: Tanishka GargVideo Editor: Sargam Krishna🌐 Follow & ListenSandeep Kulkarni: http://linkedin.com/in/sandeepkulkarni1KoolEarth Solutions: https://koolearthsolutions.com/Listen on Spotify & Apple PodcastsInstagram: @goodgarbagepodcastLinkedIn: Good Garbage PodcastBusiness/queries: tanishka.garg@pakka.com💭 Let’s TalkIf you had to redesign packaging from scratch —Would you choose paper, plastic, or something entirely new? Why?

Hello, hello!In this episode of the Good Garbage Podcast, host Ved Krishna sits down with Dr. Alexey Vishtal, a scientist and industry expert in pulp, paper, and sustainable packaging, to explore thematerial reality behind sustainability.From growing up in Russia to building his career in Finland, Alexey shares the journey that led him into material science — including a PhD focused on the stretchability of paper and years working inside a global corporation like Nestlé. Along the way, he gained rare insight into how sustainability actually moves (or stalls) inside large systems.This conversation goes beyond surface-level sustainability narratives and into the physics, constraints, and trade-offs that define packaging today. From water vapor barriers to economic viability, Alexey explains why materials — not intentions — ultimately decide what works.Together, Ved and Alexey discuss:Why paper performance is more complex than it seemsWhat stretchability, barriers, and material limits really meanHow regulation and consumer demand shape sustainability effortsWhat working inside Nestlé revealed about innovation at scaleHow nature offers clues for better material designWhy collaboration is essential for the future of sustainable packagingThe episode closes with a reflection on good garbage — and what it would take to design materials that truly belong in natural and industrial systems.🎙️ Good Garbage features conversations with scientists, founders, and builders working to leave the planet cleaner — while asking one essential question: What is #GoodGarbage?📌 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Alexey Vishtal03:04 From Russia to Finland: early influences05:46 Discovering pulp & paper09:00 The science of paper stretchability12:10 Inside Nestlé: sustainability at scale17:56 Regulation, consumers & real change21:11 India, culture, and perspectives29:52 Innovation in sustainable packaging50:06 Why water vapor barriers are so hard54:13 Learning from nature01:01:20 The future of sustainable materials01:24:19 Vision for the future of packagingProducer: Adriana Sánchez UebelhoerVideo Producer: Sargam Krishna📺 Subscribe on YouTube: / @goodgarbage🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts & Spotify📸 Follow on Instagram: / @goodgarbagepodcast📩 Send us your questions: adriana@pakka.com

Sammy Davies, Director of Sustainability & Brand at EcoSafe Zero Waste, is a regenerative leader who bridges the gap between high-level brand strategy and deep ecological advocacy. With over a decade of experience in cleantech, she brings a "systems change" mindset to the heart of the circular economy.What if the secret to fixing our broken industrial systems isn't found in a boardroom, but in the ancient wisdom of the earth? We explore how a background in herbalism and ancestral medicine can fundamentally reshape our approach to environmental leadership and personal connection.Modern waste management is full of promises, but how much of it is actually working? We take a closer look at the innovative tools driving real diversion and the specific household items that are quietly revolutionizing how we handle our daily footprint.The journey toward zero waste is rarely a straight line. We dive into the uncomfortable truths regarding the "green" products we rely on and why true transformation requires us to fall in love with the very systems we often overlook.Join host Ved Krishna as he learns from inspiring guests and experts in the industry of sustainable packaging about ways to leave the planet cleaner and answer what is #GoodGarbage? Check out the Good Garbage podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts about making the planet cleaner! Check out more on our journey! Get involved at pakka.com#composting #sustainability #packaging #environment #compostableProducer: Sargam KrishnaSubscribe to Good Garbage Podcast on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to Good Garbage Podcast on YouTube: @goodgarbageFollow us on Instagram: @goodgarbagepodcastGood Garbage Podcast, Ved Krishna, Samantha Davies, EcoSafe Zero Waste, Sustainability, Circular Economy, Composting, Compostable Packaging, Regenerative Agriculture, Systems Change, India Sustainability, India's Future, Family Business, Innovation, Technology, Modernization, Legacy, Future Vision, Waste Diversion, Zero Waste, Environmental Advocacy, Cleantech, Climate Action, Sustainable Branding, Green Innovation, Soil Regeneration, Nature Connection, Ayurvedic Medicine, Herbalism, Waste Management, Growth Strategy, Global Sustainability

Hello, hello! In this episode, Benjamin Von Wong shares his journey from a traditional upbringing to becoming an environmental artist and activist. He reflects on the influence of his parents' stable lifestyle, his unexpected path into photography, and his transition into environmentalism. Benjamin also discusses the challenges and rewards of using art to communicate complex issues, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and storytelling in his work. He explores the balance between highlighting problems and inspiring change, aiming to create meaningful impact through his art.Join host Ved Krishna as he learns from inspiring guests and experts in the industry of sustainable packaging about ways to leave the planet cleaner and answer what is #GoodGarbage?Check out the Good Garbage podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts about making the planet cleaner!Check out more on our journey! Get involved at pakka.com#composting #sustainability #packaging #environment #innovation #compostableProducer: Alex MooreVideo Producer: Sargam KrishnaSubscribe to Good Garbage Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-garbage-with-ved-krishna/id1613337676Subscribe to Good Garbage Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoodGarbageFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodgarbagepodcast/Send us your questions by texting us at 971-533-5338, or email alex.moore@pakka.comEnvironmental Art, Activism, Photography, Storytelling, Collaboration, Sustainability, Creative Process, Impactful Art, Climate Change, Personal Journey, composting, organic farming, chemical fertilizers, waste management, sustainability, soil health, compostable packaging, environmental impact, data collection, agricultural practices composting, US Composting Council, commercial composting, compostable packaging, soil health, organic waste recycling, composting industry, sustainable waste management, landfills, policy, packaging policy, garbage, garbage cleanup, beach clean up, India, waste collection, sustainable packaging podcast

Hello, hello! This week Ved speaks with Caroline DeLoach, Director of Sustainability at Atlantic Packaging, as she shares her journey from a college protester zip-tied to the White House fence to a leader in sustainable packaging. Caroline discusses the pivotal moments that shaped her passion for environmental issues, the challenges of transitioning to sustainable materials, and the importance of noticing the waste we create. Discover how her experiences have influenced her approach to sustainability and her vision for a future where good garbage is garbage we can see and address.Never miss an episode by following us on all our socials by clicking on the link below!⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/goodgarbagepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠Don't forget to turn on your notifications and leave us a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🌱

Hello, hello! Join us as we delve into the world of sustainable chocolate with Keith Bearden, the visionary behind Alter Eco. Keith shares his journey of transforming the chocolate industry through innovative practices and a commitment to sustainability. Discover how Alter Eco navigates challenges like trade spend, packaging, and carbon neutrality while maintaining their core principles. Keith's insights into logistics, ethical sourcing, and the importance of storytelling in brand growth offer a compelling look at what it takes to lead a purpose-driven company. Tune in to learn how Alter Eco is not just altering chocolate, but the entire ecosystem.Never miss an episode by following us on all our socials by clicking on the link below!⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/goodgarbagepodcast⁠⁠Don't forget to turn on your notifications and leave us a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🌱

Hello, hello! Join us for our latest interview as we explore the world of sustainable innovation with Sigrid Svedberg, co-founder of EVLR International. Raised in the ecological farming landscapes of northern Sweden, Sigrid's journey from engineering to pioneering sustainable packaging solutions is nothing short of inspiring. Discover how her Viking heritage and a passion for challenging the status quo would lead to the creation of FiberStrap, a groundbreaking alternative to plastic cable ties. Sigrid shares her insights on entrepreneurship, the importance of sustainable materials, and the future of packaging. Tune in to explore how one woman's vision is reshaping industries and making a positive impact on our planet.Never miss an episode by following us on all our socials by clicking on the link below!https://linktr.ee/goodgarbagepodcastDon't forget to turn on your notifications and leave us a review ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🌱

We're very excited to share this incredibly insightful conversation with the CEO and Founder of NBCo, Alvin Lim, as he shares his journey from growing up in Singapore to becoming a successful entrepreneur in sustainable... packaging.The anecdotes about his sheer determination and impatience to break into the big leagues make this an episode you wouldn't want to miss!From working in accounting with the Big 6 to transitioning to gaming furniture and then to sustainable packaging - he's truly done it all!We get a rare insight into how he took manufacturing challenges head on, as he talks to us about not only cracking the paper bottle formula, but also landing one of the biggest electronics tech company as their client, for whom NBCo produce sustainable corrugated packaging.Never miss an episode by following us on all our socials by clicking on the link below!https://linktr.ee/goodgarbagepodcastDon't forget to turn on your notifications and leave us a review ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🌱

Hello, hello! Daniel Carraway is the CEO & Co-Founder of RWDC Industries, a biotech company working with nature to produce materials we use in our daily lives. RWDC is a commercial producer of PHA. PHA is an biopolymer made through microbial fermentation of plant-based oils. In this conversation, Ved and Daniel talk about the technology, application and capabilities of this material. They also speak about the success RWDC has had raising money, and how it can be a model for aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators. In this episode, Daniel answers what usages their are for PHA, and which one he is most excited for. Never miss an episode by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Don’t forget to turn on notifications and leave us a review! Good Garbage Episode 21 Presented by Pakka

Hello, hello! Sven Seevers is co-founder and CTO of Repaq, a developer, designer, and distributor of regenerative flexible packaging solutions. Based in Germany, Repaq’s compostable products tackle one of the most challenging problems with plastic-free packaging: multilayer flexible films. After watching a TEDx Talk by Cradle2Cradle co-founder Dr. Michael Braungart, Sven was inspired to quit his corporate job and start the company with the help of his wife and best man. In today’s conversation, Sven explains that we need to look to nature for creative solutions to circular economy challenges. Never miss an episode by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Add to the conversation by using #goodgarbage on social media! Don’t forget to turn on notifications and leave us a review! Good Garbage Episode 19 Presented by Pakka

Hello, hello! Chris Oesterich is an author, founder, professor, and innovator focused on solving the world’s big problems. Chris founded Linear to Circular, an organization dedicated to implementing zero-waste solutions by reducing, reusing, and diverting waste. He also co-founded the Circular Design Lab with a few colleagues from Thammasat University, bringing local people together to brainstorm solutions to social and environmental challenges. He is a jack of all trades and a perpetual thinker! In this conversation, Chris answers the question, how can storytelling and systems thinking help us implement a truly circular economy? Good Garbage Episode 17 Presented by Pakka

Hello, hello! Dillon Baxter is the co-founder and CEO of PlantSwitch, a startup creating regenerative products from agave and other plant-based feedstocks. PlantSwitch recently closed a $3.2 million seed fund, making them a prime example of a startup that balances profit and sustainability. In this conversation, Dillon answers the question - how can you combine finance expertise and sustainability tech to scale a profitable and impactful business? Never miss an episode by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Don’t forget to leave us a review! Good Garbage Episode 15 Presented by Pakka