Day 2 Main ConferenceThursday, 27 March 2025

• Real-world example of a cross-industry consortium to unlock intelligent sorting
• Digital watermarking technology: Smart packaging for a Circular Economy
• Results from industrial trials on post-consumer packaging

The EU packaging regulations are constantly evolving, with new laws impacting different materials, industries, and supply chains. Navigating these changes is crucial for compliance.

• What strategies can companies adopt to stay ahead of regulatory changes in packaging?
• How do varying regulations across member states impact the internal market?
• Should there be a single, EU-wide body to standardize packaging regulations, and what would that look like?
• What role can trade associations play in supporting companies during regulatory transitions?
• How should companies prepare for the upcoming requirements around recycled content and recyclability?
• How import bans, recycling content targets, and evolving regulatory frameworks are affecting supply chain dynamics?

As deposit refund schemes are increasingly implemented to boost recycling rates and reuse, member states are taking diverse approaches, making harmonization a key challenge. This session will explore both traditional and digital DRS solutions, examining their roles in supporting a circular economy and enhancing sustainability.

• How can the EU facilitate a unified framework for both physical and digital DRS across member states?
• What are the biggest logistical challenges in implementing DRS across different packaging formats, including digital adaptations?
• How can DRS systems, particularly digital options, be designed for maximum consumer engagement and ease of use?
• What impact does DRS have on existing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks?
• In what ways can DRS, including digital systems, help meet recycled content goals outlined in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)?

The packaging industry stands at a critical juncture, shaped by the convergence of environmental urgency, technological advancements, and evolving consumer expectations. As brands navigate complex market dynamics, packaging innovation has become a cornerstone of sustainability, efficiency, and engagement strategies. This panel discussion seeks to address the most pressing challenges and uncover actionable solutions in this transformative landscape.

• How is the packaging industry adapting to the growing demand for sustainable materials and eco-friendly solutions?
• What role does digital technology play in enhancing packaging design and functionality?
• How can smart and connected packaging improve supply chain efficiency and transparency?
• What strategies can brands adopt to balance sustainability goals with cost-effectiveness in packaging?
• How can packaging innovations shape consumer experiences and brand loyalty?

"Choice project - Develop the green economy by leveraging purchasing trends" - by CONAI

The push towards net-zero carbon emissions is reshaping industries, and the packaging sector faces unique challenges due to energy-intensive processes and complex supply chains.

• What are the most significant barriers to decarbonizing the packaging industry?
• How can renewable energy and low-carbon technologies be integrated into packaging production?
• What role should regulatory incentives play in accelerating the shift towards net-zero packaging?
• How can life cycle assessments be standardized to better measure progress towards net-zero?
• What impact will carbon pricing have on the competitiveness of recycled versus virgin materials?

• Growing awareness of the environmental footprint and health impact of food packaging
• Anticipating the chemical safety challenges with new alternative food packaging
  • Recycled materials
  • Bio-based and biodegradable materials
  • Reusable food packaging
• Challenges in meeting regulatory requirements for new alternative food packaging in sensitive packaging applications
• Resources and tools enabling stakeholders to make better decisions by applying the latest science on chemicals in food contact materials

• Economic pressures from low virgin plastic prices and the market's reluctance to adopt recycled content
• How to incentivize the use of recycled materials?