Spencer Tidwell Recognized as a Leader in Sustainability

Kingsport, TN, October 2, 2025

News Summary

Spencer Tidwell, director of Eastman’s Polyester Renewal Technology Development division, has been named to Plastics News’ Notable Leaders in Sustainability List for 2025. With 14 years at Eastman, he oversees sustainability initiatives and leads efforts in recycling and waste management. Tidwell’s analogy of an ant in front of a plastic mound highlights the significant challenges in tackling plastic waste industries face. Eastman reports substantial revenues and is committed to environmental responsibility.

Kingsport, Tennessee – Spencer Tidwell Honored as Notable Leader in Sustainability for 2025

Spencer Tidwell, the director of Eastman’s Polyester Renewal Technology Development division, has been named to Plastics News‘ Notable Leaders in Sustainability List for the year 2025. This prestigious list identifies 20 influential innovators and trailblazers within the plastics industry, showcasing how strong environmental efforts can positively coincide with business success.

Tidwell has dedicated 14 years to Eastman and has played a crucial role in advancing sustainability initiatives within the organization. His current responsibilities include overseeing feedstock qualification at Eastman’s plants, engaging with suppliers, and developing long-term strategies that bolster the company’s environmental goals.

In addition to his strategic oversight, Tidwell manages process improvement engineers specializing in mixed plastics processing and methanolysis, two key areas in Eastman’s sustainability efforts. He is also deeply involved in the operations of Eastman’s new recycling facility in Kingsport, Tennessee, ensuring the plastic waste processed by the methanolysis facility meets quality standards.

Under his leadership, Eastman has launched onsite recycling programs for employees, collaborating with the community organization Food City to enhance plastic waste management. Tidwell’s leadership and commitment to sustainability reflect his understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the industry. He perceives his role as pivotal and believes that the work being done at Eastman is making a tangible impact in addressing plastic waste.

The challenges presented in tackling plastic waste prompted Tidwell to express a unique analogy, comparing their scale of work to a tiny ant standing before a giant mound of plastic, illustrating the enormity of the task at hand. Tidwell sees their efforts as not only challenging but also significantly impactful, setting an example for others in the industry.

Eastman, founded in 1920 and headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, is a global specialty materials company offering a broad array of products used in daily life. The company employs approximately 14,000 individuals worldwide, providing services to customers in over 100 countries. In the fiscal year 2024, Eastman reported revenues of about $9.4 billion, showcasing its substantial scale and commitment to safety as well as sustainability.

Tidwell’s journey exemplifies dedication and innovation in the field of sustainability, marking him as a leader who significantly contributes to environmental efforts while aligning them with business objectives. His recognition in the industry underscores the importance of sustainable practices in the evolving plastics sector.

FAQ

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tennessee Health Care Partnership Targets Rural Needs
Advanex Americas to Expand Tennessee Headquarters
California Political Leaders Tackle Big Issues at Summit
King University Faces Warning Status from Accreditation Body
Spire Inc. to Acquire Piedmont Natural Gas Operations in Tennessee
Tennessee Law Dismantles Minority and Women Business Programs
Orion Federal Credit Union Terminates Acquisition of Financial Federal Bank
Primark Announces First Tennessee Store Opening in Memphis
Bristol, Tennessee Faces Economic Uncertainties Amidst Legacy Attractions
Senate Passes Trump’s Budget Package Amidst Tension

Additional Resources

• Eastman News
• Wikipedia: Spencer Tidwell
• WJHL News
• Google Search: Eastman Recycling
• WJHL News
• Google Scholar: Eastman Molecular Recycling
• Eastman History
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Eastman Chemical Company
• Eastman Careers
• Google News: Eastman Chemical News

Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER

The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.