Utrecht, from 10 to 12 November, became the hub for leading global experts, companies, and innovators in the packaging sector, thanks to the Packaging Europe Summit. Over a hundred speakers and panellists shared insights, strategies, and experiences across the entire packaging value chain, with a particular focus on European regulations, data, and sustainability.
The Summit was opened by Tim Sykes and Olga Kachook, who emphasized the importance of collective approaches to the future of packaging. In her keynote, Willemijn Peeters (Searious Business) called on the industry to move beyond formal compliance and proactively redesign circular solutions. The panel on PPWR, moderated by Bruno Van Gompel and featuring representatives from the European Commission, industry, and associations such as EXPRA and CEFLEX, attracted particular attention. Jessika Roswall, European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience, and the Circular Economy, stated:
“We need resources to put into wealth, not waste. Use entrepreneurship and innovation to strengthen Europe.”
The panels that same day also highlighted issues around data, transparency, and the need for harmonization of EPR schemes, which was further emphasized by Fredric Petit from Emerald Venture Fund.
Innovation and awards: leaders behind tangible projects
This year’s Sustainability Awards were marked by the victory of Zafree Paper & 100+ Accelerator from Uganda. Bethelhem Dejene, the innovator behind the project, stressed the global reach of new materials and the importance of local solutions. Mondi won the Readers’ Award for its recyclable paper packaging for mattresses. Fredric Petit was recognized for his contribution to commercializing sustainable technologies. Panels with leaders such as Jessika Roswall (EC) and representatives from Amazon, Mondelez, and Heineken opened discussions on the role of large systems in transforming the market.
Circular systems, AI, and collaboration
Discussions on metal packaging and paper bottles confirmed that progress requires partner collaboration. Alvin Lim from NBCo emphasized:
“We cannot solve this individually. We need to build an ecosystem.”
The panel on recycled content showcased advances in AI sorting and challenges in integrating mechanical and chemical recycling, while startups presented new materials aimed at replacing plastics.
Development, R&D, and the path to scaling
The final day focused on innovations in paper packaging, advanced fibre processing, biobased materials, and digital technologies for tracking recyclate flows. Panels featuring Ariadna Dimoula (Paramount Planet Product), Tim Sykes, Vivien Loftin (Recyda), and Prof. Sigvald Harryson (iKNOW-WHO) provided direct insights into the latest R&D trends.
Key takeaways from the Summit
- Jessika Roswall: PPWR targets for 2026 remain; improvisation is no longer an option; collaboration is key.
- Bethelhem Dejene: Innovation can come from anywhere in the world.
- Alvin Lim: A collaborative ecosystem is essential for successful circular models.
- Digital data, reuse systems, and R&D form the foundation of a sustainable industry transition.
Over three days, Utrecht became a focal point for concrete dialogue and actionable solutions, demonstrating that the packaging industry is ready to accelerate its sustainable transformation through innovation, data, and partnerships.
