From planning tools and expert-led education to reusable packaging and machinery designed for next-generation materials, sustainability will be a major focus at Pack Expo International 2026. These five features will help visitors navigate the show's sustainability offering.
Taking place at McCormick Place in Chicago from 18–21 October, Pack Expo International will bring together more than 2,600 exhibitors across 1.3 million net square feet of exhibition space, showcasing the latest packaging and processing technologies.
For companies looking to reduce waste, improve operational efficiency or prepare for evolving regulatory requirements, sustainability will be a prominent theme throughout the event.
1. Plan your visit
With thousands of exhibitors taking part, PACK EXPO's Sustainability Solutions Finder is designed to help attendees make the most of their time at the show.
The online planning tool enables visitors to identify exhibitors offering equipment, materials and services aligned with specific sustainability objectives before arriving in Chicago, making it easier to build a targeted exhibition itinerary.
2. Connect with sustainability experts
Sustainability Central, presented by Packaging World and sponsored by EFP Engineered Foam Packaging, will serve as a hub for visitors looking to better understand the latest developments in sustainable packaging and processing.
The feature will bring together industry experts to discuss emerging technologies, market trends and practical strategies for improving sustainability performance.
3. Discover circular packaging solutions
Reusable systems will have their own dedicated space through the Reusable Packaging Pavilion, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association.
The pavilion will showcase reusable transport packaging, containers, tracking technologies and other circular economy solutions designed to reduce waste while improving supply chain efficiency.
4. Learn what's shaping the future
Sustainability-related education sessions will run throughout the exhibition, covering topics including sustainable materials, circular economy initiatives, regulatory developments, package design, energy efficiency and sustainability programmes.
These presentations, along with sustainability-focused exhibitors, will be identified by the PACK EXPO Green logo, making them easy to locate on the show floor.
5. See sustainable innovation in action
Visitors can explore the Showcase of Packaging Innovations, sponsored by Smurfit Westrock, featuring packaging examples from around the world that demonstrate new approaches to design, functionality and sustainability.
Beyond the showcase, exhibitors across the exhibition will demonstrate machinery designed to process recyclable, compostable, paper-based, mono-material and post-consumer recycled (PCR) packaging formats. Equipment aimed at supporting lightweighting initiatives, reducing material consumption and operational waste, improving energy efficiency, and generating production data for sustainability reporting and compliance will also be on display.
Together, these features reflect the growing demand for packaging and processing technologies that support changing packaging formats while helping manufacturers meet environmental and regulatory expectations.
PACK EXPO International is held every two years and is recognised as North America's largest packaging and processing exhibition. The 2026 event takes place from 18–21 October at McCormick Place in Chicago. PKN Packaging News will be reporting from the show, bringing readers coverage of new technologies, product launches and industry developments throughout the event.
