Yahoo · Oct 9, 2026
Smurfit Westrock on Sustainable Packaging and Circular Innovation
In this NYSE Live interview, Garrett Quinn, Group Head of Sustainability, Branding, and Communications at Smurfit Westrock, discusses how the company approaches sustainability, supports customer environmental goals, and advances circular packaging solutions. Quinn explains that Smurfit Westrock's products are designed to help businesses transition toward more sustainable packaging solutions. Serving customers across industries including consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, technology, and e-commerce, the company focuses on developing paper-based alternatives that can help replace less sustainable materials while supporting operational and environmental objectives. A significant portion of the discussion focuses on customer demand for sustainability. Quinn notes that many organizations continue to prioritize reducing environmental impact, particularly through efforts aimed at lowering carbon footprints and replacing materials that may be more difficult to recover and recycle. He explains how sustainability considerations frequently play a central role in conversations with customers. The interview explores practical examples of packaging innovation, including collaborations focused on replacing plastic-based packaging formats and developing alternative solutions that improve efficiency throughout the supply chain. Quinn discusses how redesigning packaging systems can create benefits that extend beyond sustainability, including logistics improvements and cost efficiencies. The conversation also examines the company's approach to recycling and material recovery. Quinn explains how paper-based products can be collected, processed, and returned to production through established recycling systems, helping create a circular process in which recovered fiber remains a valuable resource. Another key theme is the connection between sustainability and business performance. Quinn discusses how reducing waste, lowering energy consumption, and improving efficiency can contribute to both environmental objectives and operational results. He also highlights how sustainability strategies vary across regions and facilities based on available technologies, infrastructure, and local conditions. Throughout the discussion, Quinn shares perspectives on packaging innovation, recycling, circular economy practices, sustainability strategy, carbon reduction initiatives, and the evolving role of environmentally focused solutions within global supply chains. Disclaimer: Informational content only. NYSE does not endorse or recommend investments, strategies, companies, products, or services discussed.
