Stephen bridges the gap between complex material science and global sustainability compliance. With over a decade of experience across academia and industry, he specializes in advising clients on biodegradability, toxicity, and the rigorous certification standards required for modern EPR frameworks.

Most recently, as Sustainability Director for the biomaterials scale-up Natural Fiber Welding (NFW), Stephen was instrumental in the company’s recognition as a 2024 Earthshot Prize finalist. He led NFW’s hazardous material restriction programs and oversaw the critical testing required to substantiate high-stakes sustainability claims. Stephenholds a MS and PhD in Soil Science from Washington State University, where his doctoral research focused on the impact of microplastics and nanomaterials in terrestrial ecosystems—expertise he now uses to help clients mitigate environmental risk and navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.