Cyrill Gutsch is founder of the Parley for the Oceans initiative. He explains how his love for the sea powers his efforts to persuade designers to use environmentally friendly materials instead of plastic – and his work with the governments of nations at risk from plastic waste. Gutsch also sees the impact of environmental damage on the oceans – but one potential solution lies in an island nation’s long tradition of packaging. Kenji Hall, Monocle’s Asia editor-at-large, interviews Saeko Kato, curator of Japan House in London, about the art of Japanese packing techniques. Kato’s meditations emphasise the value of traditional craft and underscore Gutsch’s mission to protect the oceans.