Colin Preston
Colin Preston is a Managing Consultant at Ramboll, specializing in Circular Economy and Resource Management. With 10 years of industry experience, he integrates circular materials and sustainable processes into value chains. Colin previously led R&D initiatives at NanoLab and Mori, focusing on coatings development, sustainable packaging, process scale-up, and circular materials. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and brings expertise in developing new products, packaging, and renewable materials.
Tuesday Dec 8
Joint Government Relations and Sustainability & Product Stewardship Council Special Session | EPR Focus
One of the most significant expansions of the U.S. recycling system in decades is underway, with packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws enacted in seven states.
This session will begin with a fireside chat featuring Paul Nowak, Executive Director of GreenBlue, the environmental nonprofit behind initiatives such as the Sustainable Packaging Coalition and How2Recycle. Drawing on his extensive experience, Paul will explore how evolving sustainable packaging policies are reshaping business practices; the critical role of consumer behavior in achieving recycling goals; and opportunities for industry collaboration to drive material innovation, strengthen consumer engagement, and address emerging cost challenges.
The second half of the session will feature a panel discussion moderated by Reverse Logistics Group (RLG), bringing together industry representatives to examine the practical implications of packaging EPR implementation. Panelists will discuss strategies for integrating EPR into business operations, leveraging packaging data to inform decision making, evaluating investments in innovative packaging solutions, and engaging consumers to support successful implementation.
Speakers:
Paul Nowak, Executive Director, GreenBlue
Colin Preston, Managing Consultant, Ramboll