Promise (A Podcast)
Promise
Episode 7 - Replacing 2 billion pieces of single-use plastic
0:00
-25:10

Episode 7 - Replacing 2 billion pieces of single-use plastic

This week, I have a short discussion with Dr Shafali Gupta and Andy Epifani. Together they're the co-founders of Uuvipak, a biodegradable alternative to single-use plastics.

We chat about the plastic problem, the rapid trajectory of the company, why Uuvipak is genuinely biodegradable, making and tasting edible plastic alternatives, and sharing an inspirational message for all the kids out there.

Shafali and Andy have recently completed the Blackbird Giants program, won the Nespresso Startcup Challenge, and on the day of publishing have just been accepted into the Queensland Government’s Low Carbon Accelerator.

To protect their intellectual property, we couldn't broadcast more about the materials and processes behind Uuvipak. However, if you enjoy this conversation, I encourage anyone interested in finding out more, to get in touch with the founders. They can be followed or contacted through Linkedin above, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.


Links


Show notes

[00:01:37] - [First question] – What is Uuvipak?

[00:03:00] - Uuvipak’s take on the existing plastic problem, and where they fit in as a solution

[00:06:05] - Observing the problem personally and dreaming up the idea during covid lockdowns

[00:07:20] - The complementary backgrounds of the founders

[00:08:21] - Starting the company from the kitchen, to a garage, to raising money and winning awards in the last year

[00:11:22] - Quandaries around entering the Nespresso Startcup Challenge

[00:12:47] - The story behind the unique name

[00:13:40] - The biodegradable nature of Uuvipak’s materials

[00:15:14] - Comparing Uuvipak with other “biodegradable” packaging

[00:17:33] - Making the packaging edible, and taste-testing the early prototypes

[00:20:05] - Next steps for Uuvipak - growth, partnerships, and recruitment

[00:22:20] - A vision of eliminating new plastic production, and a cleaner world

[00:23:12] - A call to action for any young visionaries to step up

[00:24:04] - Getting in touch with Uuvipak - socials

0 Comments
Promise (A Podcast)
Promise
Promise is a show dedicated to the underdog driven by purpose to make the world better. Be they entrepreneurs, writers, academics, or more; Promise aims to get them some airtime.
Every episode of Promise is an open-ended discussion on... well, the idea of Promise itself. Whether that’s the potential for success, or the commitments we make to get there, Promise showcases tomorrow’s heroes before they get famous.