About This Webinar
Why did straws become the poster child for single-use plastic pollution? Perhaps it was because they are unnecessary for most consumers, nearly impossible to recycle, and commonly littered. Interestingly, many of these same characteristics apply to produce stickers, which are well-positioned to become the “next straw” in the fight against single-use plastics. With new legislation banning these items on the horizon, retailers, packers, and the produce value chain will soon need to turn to alternative solutions to plastic produce stickers. In this panel, hear from manufacturers and brands working to bring compostable produce stickers to the mainstream market.
Presenters
  • 1636141987-e46cead345d5258b
    Olga Kachook
    Director of Bioeconomy and Reuse Initiatives, SPC, GreenBlue
    Olga Kachook is a Director of Bioeconomy and Reuse Initiatives, SPC, GreenBlue where she leads efforts around compostable packaging, bioplastics, food waste, and reusable packaging. Her background includes expertise in compostable materials and packaging, zero waste facility certification, life cycle analysis, and sustainable materials management. Prior to joining GreenBlue, she led corporate sustainability and waste initiatives at World Centric, Etsy, Cascade Designs, and Cascadia Consulting. Olga has a Master of Environmental Management from Yale University's School of Environment, and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the University of Washington. She is certified as a LEED Green Associate and a TRUE Zero Waste Advisor.
  • 1636142017-e8388fc3ca9b6db8
    Rich Cohen
    Founder, Elevate Packaging
    Rich is a pioneer and leader in sustainable packaging. For over two decades he has been fearlessly dedicated to solving the challenging problems of packaging waste through innovation, research, and bringing real practical solutions to market. He is an experienced multidisciplinary entrepreneur educated in engineering management, business strategy, and advanced technology.

    Rich is the founder of Elevate Packaging, the world's first company focused exclusively on compostable packaging and labels. He is a member of BPI, CMA, USCC (US Compost Council) and is a founding member of the Corporate Compost Leadership Council.

    Rich speaks to the opportunities. Trends and innovative solutions in composting, packaging, and how we can work together to simplify the process of producing quality feedstock that re-enriches and rebuilds the soil.

    To unwind he ventures off to explore our natural world through hiking and getting outdoors with his two amazing kids.
  • 1636142022-f808f3ddc4eb5d1e
    Marc Holbik
    President, Ecoripe Tropicals, Inc
    Marc Holbik is the founder and CEO of Ecoripe Tropicals, Inc, where he guides the tropical produce wholesale company in its mission to serve as a catalyst of success for its farmers, workers, customers, and community.

    Prior to starting Ecoripe Tropicals, Marc worked at a tropical farm on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, experiencing firsthand the challenges and rewards of agriculture. He loves traveling and visiting farmers around the world.
  • 1636142031-3608773ef30f43fc
    Luis Anchia
    Regional Materials and Procurement Manager, Fyffes
    Luis Anchia is the Regional Materials and Procurement Manager at Fyffes in Costa Rica, where he procures the packaging materials for Fyffes products around the world. In this role, he is always looking for sustainable alternatives that meet consumer needs and operational requirements while protecting the planet, a commitment that aligns with Fyffes vision towards a more sustainable future.

    Luis holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from Universidad de Costa Rica, and he has more than 35 years of experience in the fresh fruit industry under his belt. Prior to joining Fyffes in 2005, Luis worked at Fresh Del Monte, where he acquired vast knowledge in various areas of the business including the management of irrigation systems, packing plants, administration, research, logistics and allocation, product supply, negotiation with fruit producers, purchase negotiation, design, supply, and control of packaging materials.

    Luis grew up in the countryside of Costa Rica, surrounded by the natural beauty of mountains, virgin rainforests, and wildlife. Every time he has the opportunity, Luis goes back to the mountains to breathe peace and relax.
Powered by BigMarker