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Ana Espinosa, Packaging Sustainability Manager, Estée Lauder Companies

Packaging sustainability leader Ana Espinosa discusses the profound effects packaging has on the environment and consumer behaviors.

Ana Espinosa2

Tell us about your background and how you got into the packaging industry.

I am incredibly fortunate to have been raised by kind-hearted parents who instilled in me the power to make a positive impact on the world every single day. Armed with unwavering belief that I can be a force for good, the courage to step outside my comfort zone, and a passion for STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math), I embarked on a journey of studying industrial engineering, specializing in process improvement as a Six Sigma Green Belt. My thirst for knowledge and desire to create a sustainable future led me to pursue a master's degree in sustainability management at Columbia University.

During my time at Columbia, I discovered a passion for packaging and realized the profound effects it can have on our environment and our behavioral patterns. This propelled me to change my own purchasing habits, to reevaluate how I use and dispose of products, and to delve deeply into the study of packaging materials and their end-of-life paths. It was during this transformative period that I had the privilege of working with an extraordinary organization called "Sure We Can," which forever changed the course of my life. There, I gained invaluable insights into the packaging supply chain, particularly the remarkable individuals working tirelessly at recycling facilities. 

As my journey progressed, I found myself championing reusable initiatives for various consumer packaged goods companies. It was then that I truly understood the pivotal role of packaging design as a catalyst for sustainability. My journey has evolved alongside the changing industry landscape, which now recognizes sustainability as an indispensable aspect of package design and development. This ultimately led me to my current role at Estee Lauder Companies. Together with my remarkable team and our esteemed external and internal partners, I have the honor of spearheading packaging sustainability goals and initiatives across our portfolio of 20+ brands.

What is the most rewarding part of your job today?

Working with an incredible group of professionals with diverse backgrounds that are passionate about packaging as a tool for good, the opportunity to be a collaboration catalyst and getting to know my everyday actions are aligned with my values of creativity, sustainability, and thoughtful leadership.

What are some of the challenges that you have faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

I believe that one of the most significant challenges in any male-dominated industry, regardless of one's gender, is the understanding that "perception is the co-pilot to reality," as eloquently expressed by Carla Harris. This invaluable insight highlights the importance of recognizing the presence of stereotypes and biases within today's workplaces. By acknowledging this issue, both men and women can reflect on their actions and understand how they may contribute to the problem or be part of the solution. 

In my personal experience, addressing this challenge has involved investing in self-awareness to recognize and confront my own biases. It has meant honing effective communication strategies that allow for productive dialogue and understanding. Embracing a "yes, and" mindset has also been crucial in fostering collaboration, diversity, and conscious leadership. Simultaneously, it has required the courage to embark on uncharted paths and actively seek out networks of mentors, sponsors, and peers who can provide guidance and support along the professional journey.

By navigating these challenges, we can cultivate environments that promote inclusivity, encourage diverse perspectives, and foster collaboration. It is through such intentional efforts that we pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future, where individuals of all backgrounds can thrive and contribute their unique talents to drive business success.

What are the unique opportunities for women in this industry?

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