What's Next: A Recap on UNEP 5.2 and a Look Ahead
2025-09-25 10:00 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Online
What’s Next: A Recap on UNEP 5.2 and a Look Ahead
The recent talks to negotiate an internationally binding treaty on plastic pollution ended without a global consensus. Now what? Join SPE’s online roundtable discussion on Sept. 25 from 10-11:15 a.m. Eastern Time for an exclusive debrief from participants who were inside the room at the United Nations Environment Programme’s Fifth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) in Geneva, Switzerland.
Hear firsthand what actually happened at INC-5.2. Panelists include: Fiorella Danjoy Acosta, Regional Director, Recicla Latam; Tania Ferlin, Director of Sustainability Advocacy, Husky Technologies™; Hodayah Finman, Senior Director, Regulatory Affairs, Plastics Industry; and Julie Peters, EU Policy Affairs Manager, European Bioplastics e.V. Discussion will be moderated by Conor Carlin, SPE’s representative to UNEP. This panel discussion is free to attend but requires registration.
https://www.4spe.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=9694#gsc.tab=0

Global Women in STEM Leadership Summit
2025-09-29 - 2025-09-30 | The Westin Buckhead Atlanta, 3391 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanda, GA, 30326, United States
The Global Women in STEM Leadership Summit is an initiative founded and led by Engineering Professor Takoi K. Hamrita. This is the only one of its kind two-day summit held in the world that is dedicated to giving women in scientific and technological fields from all career paths access to powerful tools, strategies, and connections to advance their careers and their lives. Join our movement!

Harnessing FEA to Enhance Weld Line Strength Prediction for Unfilled Materials
2025-10-01 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
Register now and engage in an online Q&A session with our technical experts.
Can’t make it to the live webinar? Register anyway, and we’ll send you the recording
2:00 PM EDT | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | Check Your Time
This webinar explores the advantages of simulating low-pressure molding techniques, such as iMFLUX and Decoupled 3. By leveraging real-time adjustments through simulation, the molding process becomes significantly more efficient, resulting in shorter cycle times and a reduction in defects.
Low-pressure molding enables manufacturers to produce larger parts using relatively smaller machines, requiring less clamp tonnage and lower pressure. This approach also supports sustainability initiatives by lowering energy consumption and promoting the use of recycled materials.
What Attendees Will Learn?

Benefits of low-pressure molding and how simulation enhances these processes to maximize their potential.
Using virtual sensors to dynamically regulate and maintain consistent low-pressure conditions throughout the cycle.
Create a solid starting point for process setup, reducing time and effort by accurately determining the minimum required injection pressure and identifying optimal process windows.

Nature’s Untapped Treasure: Lignin’s Potential in Achieving a Carbon-Neutral Economy
2025-10-03 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
The path to carbon neutrality—and even carbon negativity—runs through renewable raw materials. Enter lignin: the world’s second most abundant natural polymer and an untapped powerhouse for sustainable innovation.
Produced as a byproduct of pulp, paper, and biofuel industries, lignin makes up about one-third of plant mass and carries over 60% biobased carbon content. That means it can lock in the CO₂ captured by plants and extend it in products for years—while replacing petroleum-based raw materials.
In this course, you’ll:✨ Discover the fundamentals of lignin—its chemistry, types, and properties✨ Learn how lignin enhances flame retardancy, UV stability, antioxidant activity & antimicrobial performance✨ Explore breakthrough applications like:

Replacing petroleum-derived phenol in resins

Substituting polyols in polyurethane adhesives, coatings & foams

Replacing BPA in fully biobased epoxy resins

Lignin isn’t just a byproduct—it’s a game-changer. Join us and see how this natural polymer is reshaping materials science and fueling the shift to a greener future.

SPE Vinyltec 2025
2025-10-20 - 2025-10-22 | The Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton, 1000 MAGAZINE ST., NEW ORLEANS, LA, 70130
Join Us at Vinyltec® 2025 – The Premier Vinyl Plastics Conference
The SPE Vinyl Plastics Division is excited to announce that Vinyltec® 2025 will be held in person in New Orleans, LA, from October 20–22, 2025. This annual conference serves as a key platform for professionals across the vinyl industry, focusing on cutting-edge technologies, regulatory updates, sustainability initiatives, and market trends that shape the future of vinyl plastics. Building on the success of previous editions, this year’s event will feature expert-led discussions, technical presentations, and networking opportunities designed to foster innovation and collaboration in the industry. Whether you’re a manufacturer, researcher, or industry leader, Vinyltec® 2025 is your opportunity to stay ahead in the evolving world of vinyl plastics. Mark your calendar and join us for an informative and engaging experience in the heart of New Orleans!

Global Polymer Sustainability & Innovation Summit
2025-10-29 - 2025-10-31 | Technical University of the Shannon (TUS), Ireland
About the Summit

TUS Athlone, Ireland, will host GPSIS 2025, featuring over 30 speakers, exhibitors, and posters, along with an optional training day. In addition, up to 60 early-stage researchers will present peer-reviewed research papers, and all technical papers will be published. This event will empower and advance Global Polymer Sustainability and Innovation for the future.
The Global Polymer Sustainability & Innovation Summit (GPSIS) 2025 is a leading international event dedicated to advancing polymer science, sustainable manufacturing, and cutting-edge material innovations. Hosted by the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Athlone, this premier summit brings together global researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to explore breakthroughs in advanced composites, nanomaterials, medical plastics, AI-driven manufacturing, and circular economy solutions.
The summit will feature:
• Keynote addresses from world-leading experts in polymer engineering, sustainability, and high-value manufacturing.
• Practical technical training at First Polymer Training Ltd., focusing on AI in injection moulding, advanced processing, and sustainable materials.
• Thematic conference sessions covering medical plastics, sustainable polymers, smart manufacturing, digitalisation, and regulatory affairs.
• Extensive networking opportunities, connecting delegates with influential decision-makers, researchers, and industry pioneers shaping the future of polymer technology.
• In addition to the technical program from the podium, this conference offers opportunities for poster presentations. These posters will be on display in the atriums and exhibition areas throughout the GPSIS 2025 conference on the 30 & 31 Oct from 09:00 to 17:00.
The GPSIS 2025 is a must-attend event for those looking to drive innovation, collaborate with industry leaders, and gain strategic insights into the future of sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing.
Join us in Athlone, Ireland — a global centre for polymer education and research — to be part of the conversation defining the future of the industry!

AMI Plastics World Expos: North America
2025-11-12 08:00 - 2025-11-13 17:00 | IN
This 2-day FREE expo is packed with networking opportunities, invaluable knowledge sharing, and groundbreaking innovations – all aimed at driving your business forward.
Stop by the SPE Cleveland booth R2812 to connect with us and explore how membership can enhance your career.
🔵 November 12-13, 2025
🟠 9:30 – 5:00 PM ET
🟣 Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland
🟢 300 Lakeside Ave E, Cleveland, OH 44113
🟡 FREE

Plastics in Packaging 2025: Innovations, Sustainability & Compliance for a Circular Future Call for Speakers
2025-11-17 - 2025-11-19 | Online
We invite proposals from professionals with strong expertise and hands-on experience in the evolving landscape of plastics in packaging. This event will explore innovations, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability strategies shaping the future of flexible and rigid packaging applications. We are especially interested in case studies, breakthrough research, collaborative initiatives, and presentations that offer actionable insights to packaging professionals across the value chain.
Abstract Submission Deadline: September 30, 2025
Paper/Presentation Submission Deadline: October 30, 2025
Submitting Abstracts
https://www.4spe.org/i4a/ams/publicLogin.cfm?nextpage=/custom/submissions/submissions_portal/submissionRedirect.cfm?formID=237
After clicking the blue “Submit Your Abstract Here” button:

If you ARE a member of SPE, you will login using your SPE membership login information.
If you are NOT a member of SPE, you will login using the login information you set up when you submitted your abstract.

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Ideal speaker profiles include:

Materials scientists, packaging engineers, or R&D leaders with in-depth experience in developing advanced barrier materials, smart packaging solutions, and recyclable multilayer structures.
Professionals working with bioplastics, compostable materials, or biodegradable packaging who can present real-world data, pilot experiences, or commercial case studies.
Sustainability experts and LCA practitioners with strong knowledge in Design for Recyclability (DfR), carbon footprint reduction, or PCR integration in packaging systems.
Circular economy strategists and packaging designers who can speak on reuse models, refillable packaging, and the balance between functionality and end-of-life recovery.
Regulatory and policy experts with insights into global packaging legislation, additive regulation, EPR implementation, or corporate ESG reporting in packaging.
Brand owners or industry innovators who are leading packaging transformation projects and can share practical lessons, challenges, and measurable outcomes.

NOTE: All accepted speakers will receive complimentary registration for the event.

Contacts:

For questions about submissions, contact:
Iván D. López, SPE Director, Technical Programs

Design for... Optimize Product Design for Successful Thermoforming
2025-12-04 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Come listen to Profile Plastics, Inc.’s Dan Cruz talk about the unique opportunities in thermoforming! Discover how design choices can unlock the potential of thermoforming for successful product launches. Explore this cost-effective process and see how it compares to other plastic manufacturing methods. Our discussion will provide you with practical insights and proven strategies that touch on material selection, tooling, and other design considerations.
Speaker Bio: Dan Cruz is a manufacturing engineer with 10+ years of plastics tooling and product design experience. His work spans thin-gauge packaging, injection molding, and heavy-gauge thermoforming. Dan earned his Manufacturing Engineering degree from Northern Illinois University in 2014. He applies practical expertise to advance efficient thermoform design.

SPE Workshop--Failure in Plastics
2026-02-18 11:00 - 2026-02-25 13:00 | Online
Have you ever looked at a cracked plastic part and thought: “Wow… I definitely did not see that coming.”
Yeah—same.
This is why I’m excited about the upcoming SPE Workshop: Failure in Plastics—a 4‑part online series where we take a deep dive into why plastic parts fail, and more importantly, how to stop them from doing that at the worst possible moment.
Feb 18, 19, 23 & 25
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM ET
Online
Intermediate • 8 Total Hours
Led by Jeffrey A. Jansen (a man who has probably seen more broken plastic than anyone not working in recycling), we’ll tackle:
How to actually investigate those failures (beyond staring intensely)
All the classic failure mechanisms
Ductile-to-brittle transitions (the plot twist no one asked for)
Case studies that make you say “Ahhhh… so that’s why it exploded.”
Whether you’re in automotive, medical, consumer goods, aerospace, electronics, or you just want to stop plastic parts from ruining your day—this workshop is for you.
Can’t attend live? No worries—recordings will be available after each session.
SPE members get discounted rates (and yes, this is your sign to join SPE).
If you have questions, I’m your guy—just reach out!
Register, learn, and help your plastic parts make better life choices

SPE ANTEC
2026-03-09 08:00 - 2026-03-12 17:00 | Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown, 600 Commonwealth Place, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222-1003, United States
ANTEC® 2026 is where you will find the latest breakthroughs in plastics technology, advanced polymer research, and next-generation processing solutions. This is more than a conference—it’s a launchpad for solving real-world challenges in science, engineering, and industry.
Join a dynamic community of global thought leaders, researchers, and professionals driving progress in plastics. Whether you’re looking to elevate your expertise through learning about the latest advancements and innovations in the plastics industry, inspire innovation within your organization, or make powerful connections, ANTEC® 2026 delivers.

SPE WORKSHOP Introduction to Polymer Rheology: Fundamentals of Viscoelasticity and Time-Temperature Superposition
2026-03-26 11:00 - 2026-03-31 12:30 | Online
Are you responsible for predicting how plastic parts will behave months or years into service? Do you want to use rheology as an engineering tool—not just a test result—to understand molecular structure, formulation choices, and performance limits?
SPE’s 4.5-hour online workshop, Introduction to Polymer Rheology: Fundamentals of Viscoelasticity and Time-Temperature Superposition, taking place March 26th, 30th, and 31st, provides a practical introduction to polymer rheology with a focus on viscoelastic behavior and time-temperature superposition (TTS).
What the Workshop Covers:

Linear viscoelasticity and key rheological functions
How oscillatory and transient measurements are performed and interpreted
Classical viscoelastic models and what they reveal about molecular architecture and morphology
Construction and interpretation of TTS master curves
When to apply WLF vs. Arrhenius shifting
Using rheology to predict long-term creep, stress relaxation, and processing-relevant behavior

By the end of the workshop, you will be able to interpret core rheological quantities and understand what they indicate about polymer behavior. You’ll be able to apply simple viscoelastic models to rationalize relaxation, creep, and instability, as well as build and evaluate TTS master curves to extend laboratory data into long-term predictions.
