Julia Marsh: Innovator & Circular Economy Advocate

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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.

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.

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.