The first collaboration between the organizations, the event will bring scientists and engineers with cross-industry expertise in sustainability together with packaging professionals looking for real-world solutions. Presentations will cover the value proposition for sustainable packaging, how to avoid “greening” in isolation, and data and analysis measurement tools, including life cycle assessment, eco-efficiency measures, and total cost assessment. The symposium will span all areas of packaging, including bioplastics, compostable vs. biodegradable, waste management and recycling, renewable resources, reusability, and source reduction. Attendees will explore technology and materials innovations, as well as current best practices of global companies.

“Sustainability plays a pivotal role in the packaging supply chain, yet critical questions remain,” says Christine Smallwood, Greener Package director of business development. “Our engagement with the Institute for Sustainability offers packaging industry professionals and a robust group of scientists and engineers the opportunity to come together and share insights on how to unleash sustainable packaging within a least-cost portfolio, while optimizing environmental outcomes.”

Darlene Schuster, executive director of the Institute for Sustainability, emphasizes that the symposium is “specially designed to match the interests of sustainability and packaging professionals who are employed by raw materials manufacturers, brand owners, converters, suppliers, and retail professionals and the engineers and scientists who can help them implement sustainable solutions.”