PACK EXPO Las Vegas will feature at least five informational sessions on extended producer responsibility (EPR) and other regulatory developments affecting the packaging industry.
The show, which will be held September 29 through October 1, includes at least one EPR session on each of the three main days of the event. Here is a look at some of the sessions and a brief description of each of them from the show’s website.
Monday, September 29
Packaging Waste, Circularity, and the EPR Mandate to Create Return on Investment (ROI): “EPR regulations continue to evolve, forward-thinking companies have an opportunity to get ahead of compliance by incorporating circular strategies into their ESG initiatives,” according to the session description. “This session will highlight real-world case studies where post-consumer and industrial packaging materials were successfully recovered and reintroduced into manufacturing streams. Attendees will gain insight into building closed-loop recycling systems that not only support sustainability goals but also deliver measurable ROI. Learn how to identify recoverable material streams, reduce landfill dependence, and turn regulatory pressure into a strategic advantage.” The presenter will be Gary Brinkman, chief revenue officer of Sebright Products Inc.
EPR and Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): What’s Next for Transport Packaging?: “EPR laws are reshaping packaging policy across the U.S.—with major implications for EPS used in transport packaging. From appliance protection to cold chain pharmaceutical shipping, EPS is valued for its unrivaled durability and thermal performance. For large appliance transport packaging, many studies have shown that EPS is the most environmentally friendly packaging choice. However, how will it fare under new material restrictions, recycling mandates, and producer-funded recovery schemes? This session offers an up-to-date look at EPR legislation status and the positive outlook for EPS packaging design, recycling, and compliance.” The presenter will be Joe Grzyb, director of sustainability at EFP LLC.
How Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) Will Shape EPR: A Future Look at Packaging Policy: “Europe’s landmark PPWR mandating recyclable designs, recycled content and harmonized labeling is catalyzing a global shift in sustainable packaging. This transformative regulatory pressure is rapidly spreading to the U.S. through the proliferation of state-level EPR laws, which shift waste management costs and responsibilities to producers,” the session description says. California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Oregon, and Washington are enacting packaging EPR, and other states are considering similar legislation. “Businesses must understand these evolving requirements to ensure compliance and leverage opportunities for more sustainable packaging. This presentation will help you navigate through this complex and interconnected regulatory landscape.” The presenter will be Philippe Blank, head of sustainable design and circular economy—packaging adhesives and consumer goods at Henkel Corporation.
Tuesday, September 30
Legislation Is Here—Is Your Packaging Ready?: “EPR and Truth in Labeling laws are on the books in multiple states. Does your packaging meet the requirements to be labeled as recyclable? Do you know what steps are needed to comply? Do you have a turnkey way to monitor your portfolio and report annually? The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) is announcing a brand new tool that you will want in your toolkit. Join us for a demonstration and learn how this tool will help you review plastic packaging, align with legislative requirements, and complete annual reporting. The new tool is a companion to the APR Design® Guide, the widely recognized source of truth for designing plastics for recyclability today. Get your company and suppliers ready for the big changes that lie ahead.” The presenter will be Curt Cozart, chief operating officer at Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR).
Wednesday, October 1
EPR Developments Shaping the U.S. Landscape: What You Need To Know: “The rollout of EPR regulation has now officially begun; earlier in the year, ‘obligated’ producers in Oregon reported and paid fees on the full year of sales data for 2024. Next in line, over the summer, ‘obligated’ producers in Colorado reported for sales into that state. What is next for EPR in the U.S.? What are the obstacles that face brands? We will dive into the definitional structures and how those definitions could impact both downstream and upstream suppliers. Further, all three of the leading Western states (Oregon, Colorado, and California) have different material categories. For example, Oregon and California have exempt deposit return system exemptions—Colorado does not—of various lengths, and, therefore, material differences in fee structures. We will unpack the barriers created by harmonization gaps, but also how producers can avail themselves of the areas that do align.” The presenter will be Jason Bergquist, vice president-U.S. at RecycleMe.
Other Show Highlights
This year’s event marks 30 years since the show’s debut. It will feature more than 2,300 exhibitors and attract 35,000 attendees, according to the show’s producer, PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI).
“As we look ahead, we remain focused on the forces transforming our industry: automation, AI, sustainability, and workforce development,” Jim Pittas, PMMI president and CEO, said in a statement.
The event also offers more than 100 free educational sessions and eight specialty pavilions covering healthcare, confectionery, containers and materials, processing, logistics, education and workforce development, industry association partners, and reusable packaging.
The complete list of educational sessions planned so far can be found here.
Networking Events
Networking events include a private Cirque du Soleil® performance of Mystère at PACK gives BACK™, sponsored by Rockwell Automation, supporting the PMMI Foundation. It will be held on Sunday, September 28.
A Young Professionals Networking Reception will be held on Monday, September 29, at the Cove Bar & Arcade at Treasure Island.
The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Breakfast will be held on Tuesday, September 30. “This inspiring breakfast is for anyone who seeks to connect with like-minded professionals and supports the advancement of women in the industry,” PMMI says.
Registration for attendees is $30 through September 5. The price increases to $130 after that date.
Thomas A. Barstow is senior editor at FlexPack VOICE®.