#48: Talking Circular Economy with the Trash Magic! Podcast

Mar 13, 2024

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Hello Earthlings! In this week’s episode, we dive deep into the enchanting world of waste with our host, Lisa Ann and the dynamic duo behind the Trash Magic! Podcast, Oakley Jennings-Fast and Sara Eve Fuentes. Sara and Oakley share the origins of the Trash Magic! Podcast, unravel the complex relationship we have with trash, and challenge the prevailing norms around waste disposal and recycling. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the vital topic of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), unraveling how it compels manufacturers to account for the life cycle of their products, thereby reducing waste and fostering a more sustainable approach to production and consumption.

In a world where disposable culture has become the norm, Sara and Oakley illuminate the art of repair — a powerful practice that not only conserves resources but also enriches our connection to the objects we own. Enjoy this fun conversation between three friends about their shared passion for sustainability, science communication, and the circular economy.

Restoring Our Faith in Humanity this week is the inspiring story of Nik Robinson and his sons, Harry and Archie, who, motivated by a conversation about plastic pollution, launched a sustainable sunglass line made from recycled plastic bottles called Good Citizens. We salute their initiative exemplifying the power of creative solutions in addressing environmental challenges!

Key Topics:

Circular Economy and Its Impact: We need to switch from a linear economy to a circular economy, where waste is minimized and resources are reused or recycled to create a sustainable loop, ASAP. This shift is crucial for reducing environmental impact and fostering innovation in product design and waste management.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers should be held accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products, including post-consumer waste. EPR aims to encourage manufacturers to design products that are easier to reuse, recycle, or dispose of responsibly, thus reducing waste and environmental harm.
The Power of Repair and Reuse: Repairing and reusing items is a key aspect of the circular economy- these practices can reduce waste, save money, and support local economies. It challenges the disposable culture and promotes a shift in consumer behavior towards valuing and sustaining the lifespan of products.
Community Engagement and Education: The biggest impact comes from community involvement and education in promoting sustainable practices! Sara and Oakley describe how by engaging with the community through cleanups and other activities, they were able to provide accessible information on waste management and sustainability with communities.

Voices on The Show:

Oakley Jennings-Fast, Trash Magic Co-host, Founder of Level Up Planet

Sara Eve Fuentes, Trash Magic Co-host, CEO of SmartWaste USA

Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability

Web Resources

Restoring Our Faith in Humanity: Good Citizen Sunglasses

🚀 Calling all Earthlings…

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