Redemption

In this episode of Redemption, we take a deep dive into an innovative and community-centered approach to advancing the global reuse movement. Alejandra Warren, co-founder of Plastic Free Future, talks to us, bringing her wealth of experience and insight as an environmental advocate, dedicated to building and promoting accessible, sustainable reuse systems, especially within diverse underserved communities in California and beyond. This episode highlights the importance of listening to the needs of communities and valuing their knowledge to create meaningful as well as lasting change.Visit BottleBillReimagined.org, and follow Reloop on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook for Bottle Bill news, updates in the world of resource recovery, and more.

In this episode of Redemption, we revisit the EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and dive deeper into the role that reuse could play in transforming how we manage waste and packaging. While the PPWR sets ambitious goals for recycling and reducing single-use packaging, we explore how reuse systems have the potential to push sustainability even further. Nathan Dufour from Zero Waste Europe shares insights into how reuse systems are already working, and where local initiatives are thriving despite opposition. Clarissa Morawski from Reloop sheds light on the regulatory framework and how Europe is leading the way in creating impactful packaging legislation. Tune in as we discuss the challenges, victories, and untapped potential of reuse to reduce waste and reshape industries on a global scale.Learn about the ReuSe Vanguard Project (RSVP) by ZWE at https://zerowasteeurope.eu/project/reuse-vanguard-project-rsvp/ Visit BottleBillReimagined.org, and follow Reloop on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook for Bottle Bill news, updates in the world of resource recovery, and more.

In this episode of Redemption, we explore the often-overlooked but essential practice of reuse. Although reuse ranks higher than recycling in the waste hierarchy, it is frequently left out of discussions about large-scale solutions to the plastics crisis and landfill overflow. Our global guests—advocates and pioneers—share insights on how reuse is being implemented across various economic and cultural landscapes. From grassroots efforts in Southeast Asia to innovative city projects in the U.S., we highlight how communities are leveraging reuse for a more sustainable future.In Reuse Stories from Around the World – Part 1, hear inspiring stories from Perpetual, and Greenpeace Philippines, demonstrating that real change happens when we rethink how we use materials. Stay tuned as we continue to share more global stories that spotlight this growing revolution.Learn more about the Greenpeace Philippines' initiative here:https://www.greenpeace.org/philippines/act/plastic-free-future/reuse-and-refill/ Visit BottleBillReimagined.org, and follow Reloop on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook for Bottle Bill news, updates in the world of resource recovery, and more.

In the latest episode of Redemption we dive into the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP), led by the World Economic Forum. Our guest, Clemence Schmid, Director of GPAP, shares how this initiative is tackling the global plastic waste crisis through National Plastic Action Plans (NPAPs) across 17 countries. Discover the strategic approach behind GPAP's efforts to create sustainable, circular economies by fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration and aligning local actions with global plastic treaty negotiations. This episode offers a deep dive into the practical steps being taken to ensure plastic is managed responsibly, sustainably, and efficiently on a global scale.Learn more about the GPAP's Consumers Beyond Waste initiative here:https://www.weforum.org/publications/scaling-reuse-models-a-guide-to-standardized-measurement/ Visit BottleBillReimagined.org, and follow Reloop on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook for Bottle Bill news, updates in the world of resource recovery, and more.

In the latest episode of Redemption, we delve into Europe's ambitious Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), a groundbreaking legislation aimed at reducing packaging waste, promoting a circular economy, and harmonizing internal market rules. Adopted by the European Parliament in April 2023, this regulation is set to transform waste management practices across Europe. Clarissa Morawski from Reloop gives us a crash course on how this landmark regulation came to be. Next, Redemption speaks with Fernando Rodriguez Mata from New ERA, Natan Dufour from Zero Waste Europe (ZWE), and Dr. Dagny Tucker from Perpetual, who share their expertise on how this legislation will standardize recycling practices, reduce single-use plastics, and (hopefully) promote reuse.Learn more about Reloop's Target 90 project at https://www.reloopplatform.org/target90/ and the ReuSe Vanguard Project (RSVP) by ZWE at https://zerowasteeurope.eu/project/reuse-vanguard-project-rsvp/Visit BottleBillReimagined.org, and follow Reloop on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook for Bottle Bill news, updates in the world of resource recovery, and more.

This special episode of Redemption features a roundtable discussion with experts from CalRecycle - Clara Vazeix, Mindy McIntyre, and Krystal Acierto. Discover how California is leading the way towards a circular economy through a comprehensive approach that emphasizes industry partnerships and standardized definitions. Elizabeth Balkan and the CalRecycle team delve into the state's zero waste plans and explore strategies for reducing packaging waste and promoting reuse. Listen in to learn how California is setting the standard for sustainable practices and resource recovery in the US.You can learn more about Senate Bill 54 and CalRecycle's efforts using the links belowSB 54: Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility ActVisit BottleBillReimagined.org, and follow Reloop on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook for Bottle Bill news, updates in the world of resource recovery, and more.

The new season of Redemption brings you a special live recording from the 4th Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) meeting in Ottawa, in April 2024. Tune in to understand the stakes at INC-4 and what it means for the global fight against plastic pollution. Featuring insightful discussions with Taylor Cass Talbott from the International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP), exploring the crucial role that waste pickers play in shaping effective and fair environmental policies. Read IAWP's Vision for a Just Transition for Waste Pickers under the UN Plastics Treaty to know more. And listen to expert analysis from Clara Vazeix from CalRecycle, California's Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery, on the complexities of implementing large-scale recycling and recovery initiatives. Visit BottleBillReimagined.org, and follow Reloop on X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, and Facebook for Bottle Bill news, updates in the world of resource recovery, and more.

Join us on a new chapter of "Redemption," as we delve deeper into resource recovery and circular material management, exploring their environmental and social ramifications. Each month, we will bring you a curated selection of content on a wide array of environmental and social topics, keeping you informed about global policy practices. Stay tuned as we further our mission to safeguard our planet.

In the 14th episode of Redemption, we delve into one final facet of A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices - Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Explore how EPR and DRS can complement each other to enhance packaging recovery and recycling rates. Featuring insights from industry experts Mike Noel of TOMRA and Lynn Hoffman of Eureka Recycling, we uncover why DRS is a vital component of effective EPR implementation, and how integrating DRS into EPR legislation can lead to higher recycling rates.Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Episode 13 of Redemption, delves into the intersection of modern deposit return systems (DRS) and existing curbside recycling programs, focusing on their impact on material recovery facilities (MRFs). We discuss how well-designed DRSs can complement MRF operations, mitigate revenue loss, and improve material recovery. Through insights from industry experts Lynn Hoffman in Minnesota and Robert Kelman in Australia, we explore the challenges and opportunities of integrating MRFs into DRSs, offering practical solutions for policymakers and stakeholders. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

In the twelfth episode of Redemption, we dive into the link between deposit return systems (DRS) and reuse initiatives. With single-use packaging dominating modern consumption, the resurgence of reusable packaging offers promising solutions to combat plastic waste. Our exploration highlights the pivotal role of DRS in facilitating the transition to refillable containers, amplifying the impact of reuse on environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. Featuring insights from Kirstie Pecci of Just Zero, Alexis Eisenberg from Reloop, and Henriette Schneider in Germany, we uncover innovative approaches driving the shift towards a circular economy. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

For the final essential practice from A Guide to Modern DRS, Elizabeth and Clarissa Morawski (Reloop CEO & Co-Founder) dig into the management of material flow and financial data. This practice centers on the clearing process in which beverage containers registered upon entering the market are matched with the units returned. This is critical for operational efficiency, data management, and reporting compliance. Thank you for listening to Redemption! Be sure to download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org.

In our 10th episode, we investigate Material Processing and Service Fees — essential Practice #9. Material processing should be optimized to reduce costs and environmental impact. Establishing fees for collectors and logistics providers can also ensure that their recycling services benefit from economies of scale. Clarissa Morawski (Reloop CEO, and Co-founder) and Ryan Castalia (Executive Director of Sure We Can) explain why both of these concepts require special attention — especially for the people who keep modern Deposit Return Systems running. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Optimized Logistics — Practice # 8 —ensure uniform and fair procedures for those handling beverage containers, emphasizing the compaction of containers to reduce road traffic and travel time. They also encourage operators to reduce carbon emissions by using fuel-efficient or alternative fuel vehicles. Alexis Eisenberg (Reloop's Director for France and Francophonie) and Robert Kelman (Reloop's Director for Asia-Pacific) break down the intricacies of optimizing logistics, offering perspectives from Quebec and Australia. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Practice #7 — Infrastructure for Large-Volume Returns — is about making collection points efficient, user-friendly, clean, and tailored for bulk returns. Quebec and New York offer important lessons about infrastructure design — especially when it comes to managing bulk returns and accommodating diverse user needs.Joining Elizabeth in this discussion are returning guests Normand Bisson (President and CEO of the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association), Alexis Eisenberg (Reloop's Director for France and Francophonie), and Ryan Castalia (Executive Director of Sure We Can). Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Returning bottles should be easy and equitable for consumers, as well as efficient and beneficial for retailers. This is where Practice #6, Collection, comes into play. Standardizing the collection process is essential to encourage participation in Deposit Return Systems. Our featured guests, Normand Bisson (President and CEO of the Quebec Beverage Container Recycling Association) and Alexis Eisenberg (Reloop's Director for France & Francophonie) provide a glimpse into Quebec's DRS collection evolution. Henriette Schneider (CEO of Re-consult) is also back to discuss Germany's user-friendly collection requirements.Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

For consumers to redeem their recyclable bottles and get back their deposits, those bottles have to be recognizable during the collection process. Practice 5: Design, Marking, and Registration for Containers focuses on standards to optimize recovery and enhance recyclability. Hear from 4 expert guests — Lynn Hoffman (Eureka Recycling and National Coordinator for AMBER), Henriette Schneider (CEO of Re-consult), Robert Kalman (Reloop's Director for Asia Pacific), and Mike Noel (Public Affairs Director at TOMRA) — about why these system standards are essential for DRS success in the U.S. and abroad. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Oversight and Enforcement (Practice #4) by state agencies incentivize producers to meet performance targets. They're also key to striking a balance between private sector efficiency and innovation on one hand and optimized social and environmental outcomes on the other. Ryan Castalia (Executive Director of Sure We Can), offers eye-opening insights into the work of canners, the challenges they face in New York, and the major impact that redemption centers have on their security. Clarissa Morawski (CEO, and Co-founder, of Reloop) discusses the “sweet spot of regulation.” Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

To measure DRS progress, data is crucial. Pactice #3 focuses on the importance of compliance and official reporting by producers to give legislators a clear sense of return rates, materials in circulation, and areas for improvement. Our guests, including in-house experts Clarissa Morawski (CEO, and Co-founder, Reloop) and returning guest Alexis Eisenberg (Director, France & Francophonie at Reloop), discuss the significance of data reporting and — ultimately — accountability in modern DRSs. Learn how transparent reporting ensures regulators can measure and enforce meaningful targets.Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Redeeming bottles should be easy, accessible, and equitable to encourage participation. In Episode 3, we explore Practice #2 for modernizing DRS: Point-of-Return. Henriette Schneider (CEO of Re Consult), shares Germany's model for consumers and retailers to participate in the country's exemplary DRS program. Mike Noel (Director of Public Affairs, North America at TOMRA), joins us again to shed light on the power of Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) and more. Download "A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Practice #1 for modernizing Deposit Return Systems is establishing meaningful targets and penalties. Elizabeth chats with Alexis Eisenberg (Director at Reloop International) about Quebec's ambitious 90% redemption target and trigger mechanisms to ensure stakeholder buy-in. Mike Noel, (Director of Public Affairs at TOMRA) breaks down the importance of setting a high bar for redemption targets at the start of any DRS modernization effort, and the need to implement mandatory policies. Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

Redemption is a limited series for policymakers, advocates, and industry leaders to take climate action and fix our broken recycling system. In our inaugural episode, we dive into “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” — a first-of-its-kind resource. Discover why the guide is a critical roadmap to achieving our climate goals: reducing waste, slashing carbon emissions, and protecting the environment. You'll learn what works and what doesn't when designing DRSs, and hear some of the best practices for implementation..In this kickoff episode,Host Elizabeth Balkan interviews some of the foremost “doers” in the Deposit Return System (DRS) field. You'll hear perspectives from Executive Director of Just Zero, Kirstie Pecci, Representative Michelle Ciccolo, and Lynn Hoffman of Eureka Recycling. Gain valuable insights into the need for a comprehensive guide, the importance of impartial information, and the thoughtful design of modern deposit systems. Don't miss out on this journey towards effective and workable DRS!Download “A Guide to Modern Deposit Return Systems: 10 Essential Practices” on BottleBillReimagined.org

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