Catherine Hemming’s Mission to End Plastic Pollution.
Article written by Sydney journalist, Khushee Gupta, Published February 28, 2024.
In a world drowning in plastic waste, Catherine Hemming emerges as a beacon of change, leading the charge against single-use plastics with her business, No More Plastic Packaging. With 380 million tonnes of plastic produced annually, half of it ending up as single-use plastic, Catherine’s story is one of determination and action.
A seasoned graphic designer with a degree in Bachelor of Visual Arts, she decided to take matters into her own hands, appalled by the environmental damage caused by single-use plastic packaging.
Catherine’s research led her to the stark realisation that plastic wasn’t an issue in her grandparents’ time. Recalling stainless steel razors, milk delivered in glass bottles, and biscuits stored in tin, she laments the unsustainable turn her generation had taken. Fueled by a sense of global responsibility, Catherine founded No More Plastic Packaging in 2018, with a vision to produce innovative biodegradable alternatives.
The journey wasn’t without challenges. Collaborating with a developer, she launched a website not only for product sales but as an educational platform promoting the benefits of a sustainable alternative. Catherine’s products, primarily catering to the food industry, are sourced offshore due to the lack of resources in Australia. However, she meticulously chooses materials from companies sharing her values and commitment to sustainability.
Her line includes paper-based products made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Certified Managed Plantations, along with items crafted from PLA materials, derived from cornstarch. These materials, economically produced from renewable resources, offer compostability, aligning with Catherine’s mission to reduce environmental harm.
Despite a successful 25-year career in graphic design, Catherine seamlessly blends her artistic flair into her business. Offering bespoke custom packaging designs, including logos and compostable pouch designs, she caters to a diverse range of businesses.
Financial challenges, typical for a new market, didn’t deter Catherine. She firmly believes that investing in a sustainable future is worth the initial cost difference. Drawing a parallel with solar panels, she emphasises the long-term benefits and affordability that will follow increased adoption.
Catherine manages the ins and outs of her business efficiently. While the food industry remains a primary client base, No More Plastic Packaging has also positively impacted smaller ventures that are looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
In closing, Catherine expresses her commitment to continuous improvement. She actively seeks innovative materials and ways to use them, acknowledging the long road ahead. Despite the challenges, Catherine’s business stands as a testament to the growing importance of eco-friendly practices in reducing plastic pollution.
As Catherine Hemming and No More Plastic Packaging lead the charge, their story is a call to action, urging businesses and individuals to join the fight against plastic pollution and embrace a sustainable future.
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