loader from loading.io

Making Events Better for All: The Journey to Compostable Cups

How To Protect The Ocean

Release Date: 07/19/2024

Crowdfunding Innovating Seagrass Restoration: The Underwater Seed Harvester Project show art Crowdfunding Innovating Seagrass Restoration: The Underwater Seed Harvester Project

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode, we explore the crucial role of seagrass habitats in coastal ecosystems and their importance in combating climate change. Join us as we discuss Project Seagrass and their innovative initiative to create a seed harvester designed to efficiently gather seeds from seagrass meadows. Dr. Richard Unsworth, the chief scientific officer of Project Seagrass, shares insights into the challenges of restoring degraded seagrass habitats and the potential impact of their crowdfunding campaign aimed at developing this essential technology. Discover how you can contribute to the preservation...

info_outline
From TikTok to Impact: How Erica Hernandez is Inspiring Change for the Ocean show art From TikTok to Impact: How Erica Hernandez is Inspiring Change for the Ocean

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin sits down with TikTok personality Erica Hernandez to discuss the power of social media in advocating for ocean conservation. Erica shares her journey over the past two years, highlighting innovative ways to communicate environmental science, climate issues, and wildlife conservation to a broad audience. Listeners will gain insights into effective messaging strategies and be inspired to start their own platforms—whether on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, or through podcasts—to join the movement for a healthier ocean....

info_outline
Unraveling the Mystery: Why Sawfish Were Spinning and Dying in Florida show art Unraveling the Mystery: Why Sawfish Were Spinning and Dying in Florida

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin discusses the recent phenomenon of sawfish displaying unusual behavior in Florida waters, leading to their deaths. While scientists have identified the behavior and its effects, the underlying cause remains uncertain. Andrew shares his personal experiences from a beautiful weekend in North Bay, reflecting on the warmer-than-usual September weather and its implications. Tune in to learn more about this intriguing issue affecting ocean life and stay informed on how to advocate for a healthier ocean. Link to article: ...

info_outline
Tuna Fisheries and Forced Labor: A Deep Dive into Eco-Label Shortcomings show art Tuna Fisheries and Forced Labor: A Deep Dive into Eco-Label Shortcomings

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin dives into the topic of ecolabels in seafood consumption. Picture yourself enjoying a delicious sushi lunch, knowing you've made an eco-conscious choice by selecting certified sustainable seafood. Andrew discusses the importance of following organizations like Seafood Watch and the Marine Stewardship Council to ensure responsible seafood sourcing. However, he also addresses the imperfections of these ecolabels and raises critical questions about their effectiveness and future. Join the conversation as Andrew explores...

info_outline
From Whales to Words: The Role of Environmental Communication in North Atlantic Right Whale Conservation show art From Whales to Words: The Role of Environmental Communication in North Atlantic Right Whale Conservation

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin sits down with Marcus Reamer, a PhD candidate at the University of Miami specializing in environmental communication. They delve into the critical role of effective messaging in conservation efforts, particularly concerning the North Atlantic right whales. The discussion covers the evolution of communication strategies over the last two decades, the impact of media coverage on conservation stories, and the conflicts that can arise in journalism related to environmental issues. Listeners will gain insights into the...

info_outline
The State of Tuna Fishing: What You Need to Know show art The State of Tuna Fishing: What You Need to Know

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode of "How to Protect the Ocean," host Andrew Lewin dives into the intricate world of fisheries management, focusing specifically on tuna fishing. Joined by Dr. Victor Restrepo from the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF), the discussion revolves around the recently released report titled "Snapshot of Large-Scale Tuna Per Seine Fishing Vessels." Andrew and Victor explore key topics such as the current state of tuna fishing, the number of fishing vessels in operation, and the countries they represent. Victor shares insights on the surprising stability in vessel...

info_outline
National Park Scandal and Whale Encounter Updates show art National Park Scandal and Whale Encounter Updates

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin provides updates on the Florida National Park developments and a swim with whales story. The episode also includes reflections on the host's birthday and upcoming goals for the podcast. Tune in for a mishmash of updates and insights on ocean conservation efforts. Call the Queensland Government to let them know they need to put in better regulations for swim with whale tourism. Contact: Follow a career in conservation: Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join...

info_outline
Protecting Blue Carbon Ecosystems: A Global Perspective show art Protecting Blue Carbon Ecosystems: A Global Perspective

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin speaks with Emily Kelly from the Blue Carbon Action Network at the World Economic Forum. They discuss the tangible actions to combat climate change through restoration and blue carbon projects, focusing on restoring mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses. Emily highlights the human-centric approach of these projects, which not only benefit the environment but also support local communities. Tune in to learn more about the global, national, and local efforts to protect the ocean and combat climate change. Website: ...

info_outline
The Controversy of Swimming with Humpback Whales show art The Controversy of Swimming with Humpback Whales

How To Protect The Ocean

Andrew Lewin discusses a controversial incident in Australia involving a humpback whale and a swimmer. The incident has raised concerns about the impact of swim-with-whale tourism on humpback whale behavior. Join Andrew as he delves into the story and explores potential actions that could be taken, possibly starting with government intervention. Tune in to learn more about protecting our oceans and how you can make a difference. Links: Contact the Queensland Department of Environment, Science, and Innovation: Queensland Rules around whale watching: Stephanie Stack's TikTok Video: ...

info_outline
Navigating Marine Science Careers: Building Your Resume Beyond Courses and Internships show art Navigating Marine Science Careers: Building Your Resume Beyond Courses and Internships

How To Protect The Ocean

In this episode, the host shares insights on preparing for a career in wildlife biology, drawing from personal experiences and discussions with his daughter. He also mentions feedback received from listeners and a suggestion from a colleague about enhancing resumes with additional experiences beyond courses and internships. Follow a career in conservation: Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process:   Sign up for our Newsletter:    Facebook Group: Connect with...

info_outline
 
More Episodes

On this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, Reagan Kelly from Better for All discusses the journey to creating fully compostable cups. Discover how these cups are not only better for individuals but also for the environment. Learn about the impact on sustainability and the future of businesses. Join us for an insightful conversation on sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic cups.

Website: https://betterforall.shop/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterforall_co/

Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.
 
Do you want to join my Ocean Community?
Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp
 
Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter
 

Better For All is a company that offers fully compostable cups as a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic cups. The journey to creating these cups began in 2018 when the family-owned company became aware of the plastic pollution issue, particularly in the ocean. Reagan Kelly, the product lead at Better For All, was passionate about the environment and recycling, which led the family to explore the world of compostable and plant-based materials.

The company focused on developing cups that were not only compostable but also marine-degradable, addressing the concern of plastic waste ending up in the ocean. The cups are made from a material called PHA, which is naturally occurring and biodegrades safely in home composters or commercial composters. This material is friendly to a wide range of microorganisms, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Better For All's cups were put to the test at the Tortuga Festival in Florida, where they delivered 170,000 cups. The festival organizers were impressed by the unique look of the cups, which helped in sorting them out for composting. The cups received positive feedback from attendees, showcasing the potential for sustainable alternatives at large events.

The company's focus on innovation and dedication to creating environmentally friendly products has led to the development of various cup sizes, catering to different needs and applications. The cups are not only functional but also contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of events and businesses that choose to use them.

Overall, Better For All's commitment to sustainability and providing a viable alternative to single-use plastic cups demonstrates the importance of conscious consumer choices and the impact of innovative solutions in reducing plastic pollution.

During the journey to develop the compostable cups, significant challenges in manufacturing were encountered. Traditional methods and equipment geared towards working with plastic had to be reevaluated and changed to align with the new sustainable material. The manufacturing process had to be modified to accommodate the unique properties of the compostable material, requiring a shift in mindset and practices.

Securing adequate funding was another major hurdle in the development process. Developing a new product like compostable cups required substantial financial investment for research, development, testing, and scaling up production. Convincing investors of the viability and potential success of the product was crucial, necessitating a strong business case and a clear vision for the future.

Overcoming the challenge of buy-in from manufacturers, customers, and investors was a critical aspect of the journey. Manufacturers had to be convinced to adopt new processes and materials, customers needed to be educated about the benefits of using compostable cups, and investors had to see the potential for a return on their investment. Convincing all stakeholders of the value and importance of the compostable cups was a key challenge that had to be overcome.

Better For All is not only focused on providing fully compostable cups but is also looking to expand its product line to include other sustainable items. Regan Kelly mentioned in a podcast episode that they are considering developing water bags as a potential new product. These water bags would serve as an alternative to single-use plastic bags commonly used for beverages in certain regions, especially in Africa.

Introducing water bags aligns with the company's mission to make events and gatherings better for all. By offering sustainable alternatives like water bags, Better For All aims to reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastics and provide a more eco-friendly option for consumers. The company's focus on creating products that are sustainable and practical for everyday use demonstrates their commitment to promoting environmental consciousness in various settings.

Expanding the product line to include water bags would cater to a different market segment and contribute to reducing plastic waste in different contexts. By introducing innovative and sustainable solutions like water bags, Better For All continues to prioritize sustainability and aims to make a positive impact on the environment while enhancing the overall experience of events and gatherings.