With sustainability now shaping equipment specifications, material selection, and operational decisions across packaging and processing, PACK EXPO International 2026 will give manufacturers a one-stop destination to compare sustainable packaging technologies, learn from experts, and find solutions that support measurable environmental and business goals. The need is clear: more than 82% of end users say they are actively engaged in sustainability adoption, according to 2026 The Ripple Effect: CPG Sustainability and the New OEM Spec Sheet, a new report from PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.
“Manufacturers have moved beyond asking whether sustainability matters; they are now determining which investments can deliver measurable environmental and operational results,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO of PMMI. “That’s why PACK EXPO International 2026 gives them one place to compare technologies in operation, learn from experts, and identify practical solutions for their businesses.”
Taking place Oct. 18-21 at McCormick Place in Chicago, PACK EXPO International 2026 will feature 2,600 exhibitors and 48,000 attendees from 40+ vertical markets. As the largest and most influential packaging and processing trade show in North America, the event gives attendees unmatched access to machinery, materials, automation, and sustainability-focused solutions in action.
Key sustainability-focused destinations and tools at PACK EXPO International 2026 include:
Innovation Stages — Three stages will feature fast-paced, 30-minute sessions fromled by top suppliers and technical experts, offering practical insights into the latest advances in packaging machinery, materials, automation, digital tools, and real-world applications. Sustainability-focused sessions include:
- Sustainable Load Stability: Reducing Plastic Without Sacrificing Performance
- Packaging Sustainability Myth Busters: Beliefs that Brands Still Get Wrong
- Navigating EPR: Source Reduction Strategies and the Levers Brand Owners Can Pull in Flexible Packaging
- Flexible Packaging That WOWs Consumers: Material That Excites, Surprises, and Delights
Sustainability Central — Presented by Packaging World and sponsored by EFP, LLC, this dedicated education hub will feature 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.
Thought leaders and innovators will share strategies to help attendees improve recyclability, advance circularity, reduce environmental impact, and stay ahead of customer and regulatory demands. Sessions include:
- Design for Recyclability is Required by Law. Are You Ready?
- Advancing the Circular Economy: How Collaboration Delivers Value
- Protect the Product, Reduce the Footprint
- 2026: The Year EPR Stopped Being Optional
Reusable Packaging Learning Center, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) — This educational stage gives attendees a practical look at how reusable packaging systems are being implemented across supply chains. Session topics include the State of the Industry 2026, technology AI & leveraging Data, public policy and retail automation.
Reusable Packaging Pavilion, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) — Here, show attendees can explore reusable packaging systems from members of RPA and uncover 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®, sponsored by Smurfit Westrock —This special show-floor display features award-winning packaging designs from around the world, including formats that push the boundaries of sustainability, recyclability, and material efficiency.
In addition, Dow is the official sustainability partner and sponsor of show-floor recycling. Dual-stream recycling and trash bins will be placed throughout every exhibit hall.
“Achieving sustainability goals requires more than a single material or technology; it takes a systems-level approach,” Pittas says. “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.”
No other event delivers hands-on experience on this scale—with more technology, machines in motion, suppliers on-site, and access to expertise than anywhere else. PACK EXPO International is the industry’s most efficient platform to evaluate equipment, identify emerging trends, and make informed investment decisions—all in one place.
Learn more about sustainable packaging and processing solutions at PACK EXPO International 2026 and register today at www.packexpointernational.com.
