In this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Cory sits down with Ian Welsh, Co-Founder and Chair of Innovation Forum, and David Lickstein, Global Head of Packaging, Innovation, Sustainability & Experience at Kenvue, ahead of the upcoming Sustainable Packaging Innovation Forum in Chicago.

The conversation explores why the future of sustainable packaging depends on collaboration across the entire value chain, from brands and designers to recyclers, policymakers, innovators, and consumers.

David shares his perspective on moving beyond simply "design for recycling" toward a broader Circular by Design mindset — one that considers the entire product journey, from manufacturing and consumer use through recovery. He also discusses how real-world recycling data and AI-enabled insights can help packaging teams make better design decisions.

The episode also takes a closer look at the Nicorette lozenge packaging redesign, which reduced plastic by 85% while maintaining child resistance, product protection, and a discreet, consumer-friendly experience.

Resources Mentioned:

• Sustainable Packaging Innovation Forum — Chicago
• Innovation Forum Agenda
• Innovation Forum Speakers
• Kenvue — Nicorette Packaging Innovation
• Kenvue — Sustainable Packaging Innovation
• Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP)
• CalRecycle

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Innovation Forum and Guests

01:51 What Makes the Innovation Forum Important

03:19 The Value of Collaboration in Sustainable Packaging

05:31 Evolution of Sustainable Packaging Over the Last Decade

07:01 Understanding Design for Recycling and Circularity

09:41 The Role of Data and Real-World Insights

12:28 Reusability and Refill Models in Packaging

14:52 Exciting Speakers and Industry Insights in Chicago

16:33 Nicorette Packaging Redesign and Consumer-Centric Innovation

19:56 Future Trends: Material Science and Innovation

21:39 Biomimicry and Nature-Inspired Packaging Solutions

23:06 How to Join the Innovation Forum and Special Discount

24:38 Final Thoughts on Industry Collaboration and Innovation

Contact:

Listeners interested in connecting with David Licksteinew and Ian Welsh are encouraged to reach out via LinkedIn. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlickstein/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-welsh-91aa232/

Support our Sponsors:

3M: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/packaging-shipping-fulfillment-us/applications/sealing-recycled-corrugate/ 

Specright: https://www.specright.com/ 

FOREST-PKG: https://www.forest-pkg.com/

https://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approved

Connect with Cory

Connect with Cory on LinkedIn here: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/

I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap. 

This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.