As packaging engineers, manufacturers, and brand owners navigate an increasingly complex regulatory and market landscape, the 21st European Bioplastics Conference (EBC26) arrives at a critical juncture.

Taking place from 1–2 December 2026 at the Titanic Hotel Berlin (with a hybrid online option available), Europe’s leading bioplastics business and discussion forum offers an opportunity to connect technical innovation with commercial strategy.

Organised by European Bioplastics (EUBP), this year’s agenda goes beyond high-level theory, diving directly into the pressing legislative milestones, cutting-edge materials, and supply-chain partnerships shaping the future of sustainable food and drink packaging.

Key takeaways

1. Navigating upcoming regulations and market realities

With regulatory compliance driving rapid changes across retail and manufacturing, EBC26 provides direct insights from top European Commission officials, including Kristin Schreiber (director chemicals & bioeconomy, DG GROW) and Emmanuelle Maire (head of unit bioeconomy & sustainable materials, DG ENV).

• PPWR and policy implementation: sesssions will break down the practical impacts of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), market-pull measures, and Europe’s broader bioeconomy ambitions.
• Global competitiveness: dedicated panel discussions address how European manufacturers can scale bioplastics production while maintaining competitiveness amid shifting global dynamics, including international perspectives from China and South Korea.

2. Cutting-edge materials and the innovation showcase

For product developers and packaging technologists looking for the next generation of materials, the exhibition floor and conference sessions deliver concrete solutions:

• The European Bioplastics Innovation Award 2026: Witness live pitches and displays from the five shortlisted finalists pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.
• Advanced material formats: discover breakthroughs in next-generation PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) materials, home-compostable nonwovens, and high-performance biopolymer foams tailored for diverse retail applications.

3. Deep dive into science, standards, and end-of-life solutions

Tackling consumer scepticism and environmental scrutiny head-on, the conference dedicates significant programming to scientific evidence:

• Microplastics and soil health: expert sessions examine the latest scientific findings regarding biodegradation behaviour across different environments, alongside clear updates on industrial and home-composting standards and certification frameworks.

4. Exclusive pre-conference side event (30 November)

Ahead of the main conference, attendees arriving early can participate in a free-of-charge pre-conference side event on 30 November (17:00–19:30 CET) at the Titanic Hotel Berlin. This session bridges the gap between consumer demand, ongoing research, and upcoming legislation by examining:

Consumer survey data on sustainable packaging preferences.

• Deadlines surrounding the Empowering Consumers Directive and Digital Product Passports (DPP).
• Insights from collaborative EU research initiatives, including the Be-UP, GRECO, ReBioCycle, MoeBIOS, BioPackMan, and TERRIFIC projects—concluding with a networking and matchmaking reception.

5. Industry networking

Beyond the conference stages, EBC26 serves as a powerful networking hub. Visitors can explore 45 exhibitors and poster presentations showcasing novel technologies, connect with key players across the entire bioplastics value chain, and build vital commercial partnerships during the networking receptions and conference dinner.

Plan your visit

Whether you are looking to future-proof your packaging lines against upcoming regulations, source innovative biobased materials, or meet potential supply chain partners, EBC26 provides the exact roadmap needed for the year ahead.

• Dates: 1–2 December 2026 (Pre-conference side event on 30 November)
• Venue: Titanic Hotel Berlin, Germany (Hybrid format available)
• Registration & Programme: Full details and ticketing are available via the official European Bioplastics website.