#241 – Bridget Grewal & Kellen Mahoney | Sustainability in Automotive Packaging: Challenges, Innovations, and Collaboration

Episode Description: In this episode of Building Better with Brandon Bartneck, we explore the multifaceted nature of sustainability in the automotive industry with two accomplished guests: Bridget Grewal, Director of Packaging Continuous Improvement at Magna International, and Kellen Mahoney, Director at the Suppliers Partnership for the Environment (SP).

The discussion highlights the critical role of packaging in sustainability, emphasizing challenges in recyclability, the importance of returnable packaging, and how automation shapes packaging requirements. Bridget and Kellen underscore the need for collaboration across the supply chain and the role of education and awareness in advancing sustainable practices.

This episode is essential for anyone interested in innovation and sustainability in the automotive sector.

About Building Better: Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, this show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and the lessons we can learn from their experiences. If you care about making an impact, this show might be for you.

Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, impact, leadership, and more.

Brandon also serves as General Manager at Edison Manufacturing and Engineering, which specializes in low-volume contract manufacturing for complex mobility and energy products, and supports growth and operations at PJ Wallbank Springs, a leader in spring solutions for critical automotive applications.

Key Takeaways:

  • Packaging is a significant factor in sustainability beyond vehicle emissions.
  • Education and awareness are foundational to implementing sustainable practices.
  • Returnable packaging reduces waste and enhances sustainability.
  • Collaboration across the supply chain is crucial for sustainability goals.
  • Innovative packaging designs improve recyclability and minimize environmental impact.
  • Automation reshapes packaging design considerations.
  • Continuous improvement is vital for addressing sustainability challenges.

Chapters:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Transportation
  • 05:52 Defining Sustainability in the Automotive Industry
  • 08:43 The Role of Packaging in Sustainability
  • 11:53 Historical Context of Sustainable Practices
  • 14:45 Decision-Making in Sustainable Packaging
  • 17:24 Complexities of Sustainable Packaging Design
  • 20:32 Challenges in Achieving 100% Returnable Packaging
  • 23:45 Overseas Packaging Challenges
  • 27:28 Innovative Container Pooling Systems
  • 33:01 Complexities of Supply Chain Collaboration
  • 43:26 Sustainability in Packaging Design
  • 46:39 The Future of Automation in Packaging
  • 49:41 The Broader Scope of Sustainability
  • 50:42 Key Lessons in Sustainable Practices
  • 51:39 The Importance of Packaging in Sustainability

About the Guests: Bridget Grewal is the Director of Packaging Continuous Improvement at Magna International. Since 2013, she has supported 140 North American plants with packaging improvements and led global strategies for 350 plants worldwide. A recognized leader in packaging sustainability, Bridget also leads industry teams focused on sustainable packaging and returnable assets.

Kellen Mahoney is the Director at the Suppliers Partnership for the Environment (SP), where he collaborates with automakers and suppliers to advance environmental sustainability initiatives. Kellen is actively involved in defining best practices for carbon neutrality, sustainable materials, and EV battery recycling, making him a key voice in the industry.

Links & Resources:

Connect with Building Better: Follow the podcast for more inspiring conversations: