Sustainable Packaging and the Circular Economy with Natalie Betts

In this episode of the Pathology podcast, host Brandon Frank welcomes Natalie Betts, a partnership builder, strategist, and circular economy champion from the Recycled Materials Association (RMA). They engage in a compelling conversation about sustainability in packaging, discussing Betts' unique journey into recycling through economic development in Austin, Texas. Betts provides insights into recycling processes at Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs), the complexities of the recycling industry, and the importance of using recycled materials to reduce environmental impact. She also shares practical advice for consumers on recycling common household items and highlights tools developed by RMA to assist packaging designers in creating recyclable materials. The discussion extends to broader industry topics including global trade in recycled commodities, policy shifts, and collaborative efforts within the US Plastics Pact to make plastics packaging circular. 

In this episode, we’ll talk about: 

• Natalie's Journey into Recycling
• Understanding Recycling Facilities
• Recycled Materials Association Overview
• Challenges and Innovations in Recycling
• Practical Recycling Tips
• Paper Packaging and Recycling Readiness Tool
• Global Trade and Recycling
• Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Natalie Betts is a skilled strategic planner, writer, and partnership builder. 10+ years of experience working at the intersection of government & private industry, and subject matter expertise in circular economy, recycling & economic development. Strong program and project management professional with a Master of Public Affairs focused in Policy Analysis; Sustainable Development from Indiana University Bloomington and a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) credential from the International Economic Development Council.

 
For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1
 
Follow PPCPackaging on social media!

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/
 
 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/
 
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en
 
 Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/
 
Find out more about Natalie on her LinkedIn.
 
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/natalie-betts-b2296831
 
The views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2025.