In this episode, host Tiana Elame sits down with Crystal Dreisbach, CEO of Upstream, a nonprofit leading the charge to advance a robust and enduring reuse economy. Crystal shares why reuse isn’t just an environmental solution, but also an economic and social imperative—one that saves money, creates jobs, and builds more resilient communities.From her early work founding Don’t Waste Durham to her current leadership at Upstream, Crystal has been at the forefront of transforming policy, infrastructure, and public perception around reuse. She discusses the real costs of extraction and waste, the systems we need to normalize recirculation, and how reuse can power a just transition toward a fair economy.Crystal’s journey is as inspiring as it is practical—her initiatives include developing tech-powered reuse systems, influencing health codes, and even launching the first curbside pickup program for reusables. Recognized nationally for her impact, her story has been featured on PBS, NPR, and Fast Company, and in 2021 she was named Activist of the Year at The Reusies®.Tune in to learn how reuse is rising as a transformative force—and why it’s key to building stronger, more self-sufficient communities.

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