Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Julia Marsh: Innovator & Circular Economy Advocate
What was your pathway to your current career, and how did you know it was the right one?
My pathway wasn't a straight line – I actually started as a brand and packaging designer, not a scientist! I spent the early part of my career designing brand and packaging systems for consumer goods companies. Increasingly, I became frustrated by the sheer volume of plastic waste we were creating. I realized that as a designer, I was often responsible for the materials selected, yet I had no good materials to choose from. This led me to an obsession with the circular economy, and a deep dive into alternative materials that could replace plastic...including seaweed! This became the focal point of my career – to make replacements for plastic made with seaweed that wouldn't last on earth forever. I knew this pivot was "right" when I visited coastal communities and saw the potential of seaweed not just as a material, but as a resource that heals the ocean as it grows. Starting Sway felt like the perfect convergence of my skills in design systems and my passion for nature. I realized that I didn't have to be a chemist to start a materials company; I just needed to be curious and persistent enough to bring together the science and design needed to make it a reality.
What motivates you in your personal and professional life, even when you face harsh setbacks?
When you are up against a trillion-dollar incumbent like the plastics industry, it's easy to feel small. But I'm motivated by the concept of "benevolent materials." Most sustainability efforts are about being "less bad" – using less water, creating less carbon. While necessary, that narrative can feel exhausting. At Sway, we are motivated by the opportunity to heal. We're building a supply chain where every piece of packaging represents healthier coastlines, healthier ecosystems, healthier communities. When we face setbacks, I remind myself that we aren't just fighting against plastic; we are fighting for a future where nature and industry work in harmony. That vision is an endless source of energy.
Looking back, what advice would you give to your high school self (and the high schoolers of today)?
My advice is: Don’t wait for permission to call yourself an innovator.
When I was in high school, I thought I had to choose one lane – I could be an "artist" or a "scientist," but not both. I wish I knew earlier that the most exciting innovation happens at the intersection of different fields. You don't need a PhD or decades of experience to start solving the problems you see around you. Your curiosity is your superpower. If you see a system that is broken, trust your instinct to question it, and don't be afraid to reach out to experts to help you build a solution.