Most businesses now recognize the need for sustainability in packaging but question exactly how to successfully build it into their processes. That's the goal of “Sustainability in Packaging 2008,” to be held March 12 through March 13 at the Royal Plaza Hotel in Orlando.

The conference, sponsored jointly by IntertechPIRA (www.interechpira.com) and Packaging Digest, has a lineup of respected leaders in packaging sustainability, featuring leading brands like Mars, Hasbro, Whole Foods, Burts Bees, Nestle, Kimberley Clark, Coca-Cola and Stony Fields Farms, as well as packaging players like International Paper, Amcor and MeadWestvaco. The full agenda is available at www.sustainability-in-packaging.com.

“Sustainability is not a new consideration for the packaging industry, but a massive rise in interest from consumers, retailers and other industry stakeholders means that it's now a board-level priority across the industry,” says Ciaran Little, events leader for IntertechPIRA. “The next challenge is the practicality once companies have commited to sustainable packaging. How do they choose from the wide range of material and process choices available?”

The conference program has more than 40 speakers, representing the entire supply chain. It includes tracks dedicated to all aspects of sustainability, giving it a comprehensive agenda. Nearly 300 attendees are expected to attend.

On March 11, a pre-conference workshop offers individuals who are newer to sustainable concepts a chance to get up to speed prior to the conference. The workshop will include the fundamentals of lifecycle analysis and carbon footprint assessments. Attendees will have access to experts, positioning them for maximum benefit during the conference.