Show Notes
Mike Michelini hosts Sivan Gilad, eco-conscious product designer and CEO of SoGreenPack.com, to discuss the real costs and opportunities of sustainable packaging in today's tariff-heavy environment. From his journey as a China-based sourcing agent to becoming a pioneer in biodegradable materials, Sivan shares practical strategies for e-commerce sellers navigating rising costs, regulatory shifts, and the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions.
Topics Covered in this Episode
From Plastic Straws to Biodegradable Innovation
Sivan shares how a family dinner conversation about shipping containers full of plastic straws pushed him to pivot his entire business toward sustainable packaging materials.
The Myth That Green Packaging Always Costs More
Alternative materials don't necessarily increase per-unit costs, and when you factor in waste handling, brand awareness, and tariff advantages, eco-friendly packaging often saves money overall.
Eco-Friendly Packaging as a Tariff Strategy
Working with a knowledgeable customs broker to properly classify eco-friendly packaging can reduce import duties, offering sellers a competitive advantage in the current tariff environment.
California's PLA Ban and the Microplastics Problem
Not all "compostable" plastics are created equal—Sivan explains why PLA (polylactic acid) degrades into harmful microplastics and has been banned in California, making material selection critical.
Amazon Warehouse and Distribution (AWD) as a Cost-Saving Game Changer
Switching from expensive 3PLs to Amazon's AWD program dramatically reduced Sivan's logistics costs while simplifying multi-channel fulfillment for platforms like Faire.com.
Payoneer Business Financing for Cash Flow Management
Short-term financing at 3% fixed interest for 4–5 months helps sellers maintain strong factory relationships and stay ahead during uncertain economic times.
Chinese Factories Expanding to Tariff-Free Countries
Many Chinese manufacturers are establishing operations in Mexico and Thailand to help clients avoid tariffs—Sivan set up his own Thailand facility before the recent 18% tariff was introduced.
Supreme Court Tariff Decision and Corporate Lawsuits
A pending Supreme Court ruling could declare recent tariffs illegal, with major corporations like Walmart and Costco suing to recover billions in tariff payments already paid.
Packaging as Branding and Product Differentiation
For CPG brands and Amazon sellers, sustainable packaging serves as a powerful marketing tool, supporting brand awareness, UGC content, and commanding premium positioning in competitive markets.
Consumer Demand Driving the Shift
Research shows 78% of consumers prefer eco-friendly packaging, creating a grassroots demand that makes sustainability a competitive advantage rather than just a cost center.
People / Companies / Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- SoGreenPack.com – Sivan's sustainable packaging company
- Cross Border Summit Chiang Mai – November 3–5, 2026 | 2026.crossbordersummit.com
- Cross Border Mastermind Samui – March 24–27, 2026 | crossbordermastermind.com/samui2026
- Keychain – CPG industry platform Sivan uses for working with brands at various volume levels
- Amazon Warehouse and Distribution (AWD) – Amazon's fulfillment program
- Payoneer Business Financing – Short-term financing solution for e-commerce sellers
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