It's here...The return of The Big Plastics Debate, in association with OPRL and Food Service Packaging Association. The debate will comprise of four sessions, two on each afternoon, focusing on the key topics around the drive to reduce plastic waste.

Waste reduction and protecting our environment are becoming increasingly important issues for consumers, meaning brands, retailers and manufacturers need the most innovative eco-friendly solutions on the market.

Plastic, however, plays an important role in packaging and it is vital the industry comes together for a balanced debate to set in place plans that are realistic and work for all parties.  

That’s where The Big Plastic Debate comes in, a group of sessions each afternoon that will bring all parts of the supply chain together to discuss the issue.

Wednesday 27th February

15:00 - 15:45

The Ecopack Challenge

Six companies with innovative sustainable packaging solutions battle it out for the crown of Ecopack Challenge Winner 2019 and a chance to work with M&S. Each company has 5 minutes to pitch their product to a panel of judges. 

Judges:

• Kevin Vyse - M&S
• Martin Kersh - Food Packaging Association
• Paul Jenkins - Packhub

15:45 - 17:00

The Big Debate: ''This house believes plastic packaging will always be fundamental to our everyday lives''

Two teams (for/against) battle is out to persuade the audience of their view of plastic packaging.

Speakers:

For: 
Prof. David Bucknall - Heriot-Watt University
Barry Turner – BPF (British Plastics Federation)

Against: 
Sian Sutherland – A Plastic Planet.

Thursday 28th February 

14:30 - 15:15

Designing packaging for a circular economy

What do packaging designers and technologist’s need to consider when designing packaging that will be as sustainable as possible.

Speakers:

• Peter Maddox - WRAP
• Stuart Foster - RECOUP
• Clover Abbott - Unilever PLC, Pepsi, Lipton
  

15:15 - 16:00

Panel discussion: Recruiting consumers for a circular economy

How can we influence consumers to change their consumption and recycling habits, to help reduce plastic waste?

Speakers:

• Carole Taylor - Chair, LARAC
• Jos Harrison - Global Design Strategy Director, RB

Has the debate left you wanting more? Don't forget to visit the Plastic Free Aisle!

If you're still looking for more on plastic free alternatives after the debate, head over to the Plastic Free Aisle where A Plastic Planet will be showcasing exclusively in the Ecopack section. They will be displaying examples of the plastic-free materials - from fresh produce salad bags and fruit nets to tea bags and coffee capsules, meat and cheese packaging to condiments and dairy! 

If you want to hear more about The Big Plastics Debate, click here. 

If you'd like to attend any of the sessions, register here.