About the Guest(s):

Miguel Arevalo: Miguel Arevalo is a prominent figure in the packaging industry, currently working with Google's packaging team. He has made significant contributions to sustainable packaging solutions and is an advocate for plastic-free packaging. Miguel's work focuses on creating eco-friendly packaging designs that enhance the consumer experience while meeting environmental goals. He has shared his expertise at various industry events and is known for fostering innovation in sustainable materials and processes.

In this episode of Packaging Today, Evelio Mattos, Adam Peek, and Cory Connors host a compelling discussion with Miguel Arevalo from Google's packaging team. As they dive into the world of sustainable packaging, the hosts explore Google's transition to plastic-free packaging, emphasizing eco-friendly practices and innovations. Miguel shares insights on the collaborative efforts that led to this achievement and the importance of making sustainable choices in packaging.

Throughout the episode, core themes such as sustainable packaging solutions, the role of Google Maps and its plastic-free packaging, and the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to eco-friendly materials are discussed. Miguel highlights the importance of creating a memorable unboxing experience while ensuring packaging is easily recyclable. He also discusses how Google leveraged partnerships and technological advancements to achieve their goals. The conversation touches on the broader implications of sustainable packaging for other brands and industries.

• Google's transition to plastic-free packaging involved a collaborative effort and innovative solutions.

• The new packaging focuses on creating a memorable unboxing experience with textures and sounds that emphasize recyclability.

• Google has made their plastic-free packaging guide available for other brands to use, promoting widespread sustainability.

• Advanced sorting technologies and improved materials are crucial for enhancing recyclability and reducing contamination in recycling streams.

• Sustainable packaging requires continuous innovation and collaboration within the industry to achieve progress, not just perfection.

• "Our team does an amazing job to make that work. It takes a village and we have an amazing team." – Miguel Arevalo

• "Consumer convenience is key. Our main goal was to have packaging that can easily be recycled by anyone, anywhere." – Miguel Arevalo

• "We believe that we all are in this boat together. It's about what everyone can be able to do, not just Google." – Miguel Arevalo

• "We aim for progress, not perfection, in our sustainable packaging journey." – Miguel Arevalo

• Google Blog: Plastic-Free Packaging Guide
• Western Michigan University Recycling Testing Center

• Miguel Arevalo on LinkedIn