Pack Expo puts sustainability in the spotlight

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Pack Expo puts sustainability in the spotlight

7 Aug 2026

Maddie Lambert

Maddie Lambert is a copywriter and editor from Joplin, MO. She graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English – literary studies. When she’s not poring over the magazine or lost in the pages of a new novel, you can find Maddie exploring her local bookstores, spending time with her husband, or sharing her latest literary discoveries with fellow book enthusiasts.

HERNDON, VA — New research from PMMI, the association for packaging and processing technologies, found that more than 82% of end users are actively pursuing sustainability goals. As a result, the organization is placing sustainable solutions front and center at Pack Expo International 2026, set for Oct. 18-21 in Chicago.

The biennial international tradeshow will give attendees a one-stop destination to compare sustainable packaging technologies, learn from industry experts and find solutions that support operational sustainability goals.

“Achieving sustainability goals requires more than a single material or technology; it takes a systems-level approach,” said Jim Pittas, president and CEO of PMMI. “Pack Expo International gives manufacturers the opportunity to see how packaging design, equipment, reusable systems and operational improvements can work together to reduce environmental impact while strengthening performance and long-term competitiveness.”

Key sustainability-focused destinations and tools at the tradeshow will include:

Innovation Stages | Three stages will feature 30-minute sessions led by suppliers and technical experts, offering practical insights into packaging machinery, materials, automation, digital tools and real-world applications.

Sustainability Central | This dedicated education hub includes expert-led presentations, case studies and trends shaping sustainable packaging. Attendees will learn how material choices, system design and operational changes can reduce environmental impact while supporting business goals.

Reusable Packaging Learning Center | This area gives attendees a practical look at how reusable packaging systems are being implemented across supply chains. Session topics include technology, AI, leveraging data, public policy and retail automation.

Reusable Packaging Pavilion | Showgoers can explore reusable packaging systems from members of the Reusable Packaging Association and find solutions designed to reduce waste, improve durability, streamline logistics and deliver measurable supply chain cost savings.

Sustainability Solutions Finder | This online tool helps attendees locate vetted Pack Expo Green Exhibitors that offer eco-friendly materials, components, machinery and services. Attendees can search by sustainability attribute, package type or solution category.

Showcase of Packaging Innovations | This special show-floor display features award-winning packaging designs from around the world, including formats for sustainability, recyclability and material efficiency.

Pack Expo International 2026 will feature 2,600 exhibitors and 48,000 attendees from more than 40 vertical markets around the world. To learn more and register for the show, visit www.packexpointernational.com.

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