March newsletter: Countdown to SPC Impact, an introductory resource, and insights on how DEI helps sustainability

Amid rollbacks to federal sustainability initiatives and delays for statewide plans, the stakes for our industry are changing at a breakneck pace.?In uncertain times, our industry’s collective action is more important than ever. That’s why we’re counting down the days (just over 30) until we can get together to harmonize our sustainable packaging action at SPC Impact 2025 in Seattle.?

In this newsletter, we’re highlighting some tools you can use to get the most out of your SPC Impact experience. We’re also sharing a new resource on getting started in sustainable packaging for our members and their network. And to round out our focus on collaboration, we’re sharing insights from our Inclusion & Representation in Packaging Collaborative on why we need to build a truly inclusive table to scale sustainable solutions.?

Read on to learn more about your role in this changing landscape, and I trust that together, we’ll turn these setbacks into success stories.

- Olga Kachook,?Director, Sustainable Packaging Coalition, GreenBlue

The Countdown to SPC Impact 2025 is On: Make Your Plan

With just 32 days until SPC Impact 2025 in Seattle, we can’t wait to get together with hundreds of sustainable packaging professionals like yourself as we harmonize our sustainable packaging action. Ready to start planning your trip? Check out resources you can use to make the most of your time at SPC Impact 2025.

• New to SPC Events Guide: View our guide for first-time SPC event attendees.
• For People Representing Brands: For people representing brands, use our curated Brands Roadmap.
• Plan Your Must-See Sessions: View sessions on everything from policy to behavior change.?
• Explore Sustainability Across Seattle: Check out SPC Impact tours you can join.
• Make Lasting Connections: Learn about guided networking opportunities and evening socials.
• Make Work Travel Sustainable: Check out our nine tips for sustainable work trips.?

Don't Miss These Event Deadlines

1. April 1:?Late fees for new registrants kick in, so register now.
2. April 3:? Our discounted hotel block is filling up fast, so book today.

New Resource: Getting Started with Sustainable Packaging?

As sustainable packaging moves from a “nice-to-have” to table stakes across companies, our industry is growing. A lot. SPC, for example, has grown from seven founding member companies to nearly 600 in just two decades.?

To support this growth, we’ve got a new resource for our industry. If you or someone you work with is getting started in sustainable packaging or hoping to expand their expertise, we’ve mapped out seven strategic steps to guide your sustainable packaging journey. From the basic principles to niche particulars (like, is there a difference between bioplastics and biodegradable packaging?), these steps will help you make your mark in an industry that’s changing commerce and the world.

Check out the seven steps for getting started in sustainable packaging.

View the Resource.

New Article: When We Shrink the Table, Solutions Suffer

“True progress in sustainable packaging requires scale – but not in the way you may think... It asks a diverse number of communities to recycle, reuse and participate in the circular economy.”

In a new Trellis article, GreenBlue Executive Director Paul Nowak and SPC Stakeholder Engagement Manager Sheila Anzures are breaking down what sustainable packaging stands to lose amid DEI rollbacks. "The path forward for sustainable packaging isn’t through narrowing our focus — it’s through widening our doors and ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table where solutions are born,” they write.?

Read about three reasons why diversity strengthens sustainable packaging.

Read the Article.

In Other News

• What is the future of sustainable packaging in the U.S.? SPC Director Olga Kachook writes about the path forward for sustainable packaging in Packaging Europe.
• Five years after the pandemic, how did COVID-19 change the packaging industry? Check out the lasting consumer behavior and supply chain changes in Packaging Dive.
• Ready to strengthen your understanding of all the ways that SPC can support your sustainable packaging progress? Book office hours with SPC Director Olga Kachook today.?
• This week we kicked off our new Environmental Trade-offs Collaborative to help members navigate the tensions and trade-offs of different packaging designs. Join today.
• Check out SPC’s March Packaging Policy Roundup for updates on everything from amendments to Maryland’s EPR bill to movement on Washington’s EPR bill. ?
• Sponsorships are now available for our member-only events, SPC Advance and the How2Recycle Summit in Boston this Fall. Check out opportunities to sponsor the events.