Event Overview
The Packaging Recycling Summit 2026 brings together leaders across the entire packaging recycling value chain. The summit is designed as a collaborative forum where brand owners, material suppliers, reprocessors, retailers, and policymakers work together to advance circular economy solutions for packaging.
Key Details
- Event Type: Industry Summit
- Date: June 15-17, 2026
- Location: Rosemont, Illinois, USA
- Website: Packaging Recycling Summit
- Focus: Circular packaging systems and infrastructure
Topics & Focus Areas
- Recyclable Packaging Design: Design for recycling principles and standards
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Implementation and compliance strategies
- Consumer Recycling Initiatives: Public education and participation
- Material Selection: Optimizing for recyclability and performance
- Collection Infrastructure: System design and logistics
- Sorting & Processing: Technology and capacity development
- Reprocessed Material Quality: Specifications and standards
- Regulatory Developments: US and North American policy trends
Summit Tracks
Track 1: Design for Recyclability
- Material selection criteria
- Package design principles
- Performance and sustainability balance
- Unintended consequences and mitigation
Track 2: Infrastructure & Systems
- Collection system design
- Sorting technology and capacity
- Processing innovation
- Supply chain optimization
Track 3: Policy & Regulation
- EPR law implementation
- Extended producer responsibility
- Sustainability targets and timelines
- Industry-government collaboration
Track 4: Market Dynamics
- Supply and demand for recycled materials
- Cost analysis and economics
- Business model innovation
- Investment opportunities
Track 5: Consumer & Brand Strategy
- Public education campaigns
- Brand commitment communication
- Supply chain transparency
- Sustainability reporting
Why Attend
The summit is essential for:
- Brand Owners: Developing circular packaging strategies
- Material Suppliers: Understanding future demand and specifications
- Reprocessors: Identifying collection opportunities
- Equipment Manufacturers: Showcasing innovations
- Retailers: Supporting circular initiatives
- Policymakers: Understanding industry perspectives
- Consultants: Advising on circular strategies
Typical Attendance
The summit attracts professionals including:
- Consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands
- Packaging manufacturers and converters
- Reprocessors and recyclers
- Material suppliers
- Equipment manufacturers
- Retailers and distributors
- Government agencies and policymakers
- Consulting firms
- Environmental organizations
- Investors and financial professionals
Key Discussion Topics
Packaging Material Streams
- Plastic film and flexible packaging
- Rigid plastic containers
- Multi-material packaging challenges
- Alternative materials exploration
Infrastructure Gaps
- Collection coverage and rates
- Sorting contamination issues
- Reprocessing capacity limitations
- Geographic variations
Circular Business Models
- Take-back programs
- Reusable packaging systems
- Reverse logistics
- Subscription and service models
Networking Features
- Structured Meetings: One-on-one connection opportunities
- Working Sessions: Collaborative problem-solving groups
- Evening Receptions: Informal networking events
- Exhibit Area: Technology and solution showcases
Venue & Logistics
Location: Rosemont, Illinois - Major Midwest business center
Travel Access:
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) - 20 minutes away
- Excellent ground transportation
- Central location for North American accessibility
- Proximity to manufacturing regions
Hotel & Accommodation: Rosemont offers convenient lodging at conference facilities
Contact & Registration
- Website: Packaging Recycling Summit
- Registration: Opens typically 3 months before event
- Early Registration: Discount rates for advance sign-ups
Last updated: January 05, 2026