In this member spotlight, we talk to Nicole McCann, Caps and Lids 
Recycling Scheme Manager
The Packaging Forum is New Zealand’s leading packaging stewardship organisation, working to improve packaging recovery and reduce waste going to landfill. A member-based not-for-profit, The Packaging Forum operates four recycling schemes, which support diverting hard to recycle products from landfill and helping shape the future of packaging stewardship in New Zealand. I am lucky enough to run one of those schemes, the young relatively new Caps & Lids Recycling Scheme on behalf of our members.
Why did you want to join WasteMINZ?
WasteMINZ is a great way to keep connected with other people and organisations working hard to deliver the same mahi as myself and The Packaging Forum. I also really enjoy taking part in the trainings offered as a way to keep learning and developing. Supporting the work that WasteMINZ does through its sector groups and advocacy is also really important for the industry in New Zealand and for me personally to have that voice at the important tables.
What topic/issue are you most passionate about when it comes to waste, resource recovery or contaminated land?
My initial start up in waste was teaching in schools about reducing waste and recycling. From that, education and waste minimisation has been my passion, however growing in the industry has expanded my passion to product stewardship and now a new appreciation for caps and lids! Seeing households create change and tangible results from projects I have been involved in, really boosts my drive to help more people learn about waste and promote all the cool initiatives out there in New Zealand.
What are you reading or listening to right now?
I’m currently reading Nigel Latta’s book: Lessons on Living: Finding Your Way Through Life’s Ups and Downs. It’s truly inspirational and a very good read, basically his entire life’s lessons as a clinical psychologist in one easy to read and humorous book! One take away so far is that everyone sets out with good intentions, even if things don’t come across well, we are hard wired to do good and be good humans.
Describe your perfect day outside of work
My perfect day out of work would be doing anything in the outdoors, probably a hike in the bush or a trail run followed by a soak in a hot pool would be amazing. In summer most days are spent at the beach as I’m lucky enough to work remotely from the beautiful Tauranga moana!
