James Merrill. Stoked Plastics & Opolis Optics. Innovation & Inspiration
James Merrill is the Founder, CEO and the force behind Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics; and he is an unapologetic optimist about our ability to fix the worldwide plastics problem.
James has built these companies that don’t just talk about sustainability… they literally turn plastic waste into high-performance products. From discarded plastic water bottles to premium materials, his work sits at the intersection of sustainability, environmental impact, design, and innovative business.
James’ background is not what you might think. He did not grow up in the outdoor, action sports or fashion industries but deep in international assistance work; in some of the most heavily impacted (and most dangerous) regions on the planet. What he saw and experienced firsthand is what has led him to do the work he’s doing today.
James isn’t just focused on feeling or acting “green;” he’s obsessed with making an impact. Taking ocean found and ocean bound plastics out of the environment and turning them into materials that can compete at the highest levels of performance, durability and fashion is the future; and James is at the forefront of this technology.
James shares his path and how Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics came to life, what it really takes to turn trash into something people love.
Time: 0:51
Revolutionary
Time: 0:22
No New Plastic
Time: 0:33
Hope / Superpower
Time: 1:06
Genesis
0:00 – Innovative CEO of Two Businesses
8:36 – Startup Growth and Strategic Decisions
15:32 – Falling in Love with Jesuit Values
21:08 – “Embracing Opportunity in Bangladesh”
27:15 – “Tracking Radicalization Through Adventure”
30:05 – Disillusionment in Service
34:48 – “Plastic, Danger, and Recruitment”
39:39 – Global Impact Hidden in Plain Sight
46:32 – “Rebuilding Degraded Plastic Integrity”
50:03 – “Premium Sustainability for Brands”
57:27 – Maintaining Connections and Collaboration
1:01:12 – Sustainable Partnerships on the Horizon
1:06:22 – “Tailored Pitches Boost Efficiency”
1:14:20 – Venture Capitalists Lack Experience
1:15:53 – Conversations Spark Hopeful Innovation
1:23:50 – “Small Habits Inspire Change”