Terracycle is proving that almost anything can be recycled, from cigarette butts to ocean plastics, transforming how the world thinks about waste. In this episode of How to Protect the Ocean, Andrew Lewin speaks with Tom Szaky, the founder and CEO of TerraCycle, to explore how his company is creating global recycling programs that redefine sustainability and consumer responsibility.

TerraCycle has become a leader in connecting corporations and individuals to solutions that keep waste out of landfills and oceans. This conversation dives into the economics of recycling, why certain materials are left behind, how microplastics can be repurposed, and what it takes to shift both corporate and consumer behavior. By the end, you’ll see why recycling is not just about sorting bins but about reimagining the value of our waste.

Terracycle Website: https://www.terracycle.com/

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: why recycling matters
03:00 – Meet Tom Szaky, CEO of TerraCycle
07:15 – What can TerraCycle recycle? Almost anything
12:30 – The economics behind recycling programs
18:45 – How recycling markets work and why some materials are ignored
24:20 – Global impact: programs around the world
30:15 – Ocean plastics and microplastics: challenges and opportunities
36:00 – Corporate responsibility in driving recycling innovation
42:30 – Consumer responsibility and behavior shifts
49:15 – Innovative recycling solutions shaping the future
55:40 – Zero-waste goals and circular economy potential
1:02:00 – TerraCycle’s vision for scaling impact worldwide
1:08:00 – Final thoughts and takeaways

#oceanconservation #MarineBiology #SaveOurOceans #ProtectTheOcean #OceanAwareness #BluePlanet #ConservationMatters #ScienceForChange #SustainableOceans
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