Politely declining the offered straws, they find themselves in animated conversation about the paradox of plastic: its versatility and indispensability versus the horrific impacts of its unmanaged waste.

Warming to their theme, they discuss the plastic Circular Economy – and the market failures that continue to impede it.

In heated agreement, they cite poor design that makes recovery unviable; and uncertain collection practices that make recovered plastic so difficult for brands to access.

If only there was a way to help business understand - and so manage - the impacts of their packaging decisions.

If only there was a way to get plastic out of the environment and back into circulation.

The entrepreneur stands up: 'Hang on - I've got an idea...'