Plastic waste has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, and addressing it requires groundbreaking advancements. The Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) recently announced their upcoming conference, Reducing Plastic Waste Through Artificial Intelligence and Digitalization (October 16-17 at the Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel in Baltimore, MD.), that will include industry leaders, experts, and innovators who will address how artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization are revolutionizing the plastic industry, offering robust solutions that can effectively mitigate plastic waste and optimize its usage through increased recycling.

The event aims to showcase the latest breakthroughs and cutting-edge solutions that leverage AI and digitalization to transform waste management and recycling practices.

Event Highlights

By harnessing intelligent algorithms and integrating advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and geolocation, waste collection in urban areas can be significantly enhanced, driving us closer to a more sustainable future.

Highlighting the event will be smart bins equipped with AI capabilities, which play a pivotal role in sorting materials at their source, maximizing recycling potential, and optimizing plastic waste management. State-of-the-art recycling plants incorporating various sensors as well as machine learning algorithms will also be showcased, demonstrating how these technologies enhance efficiency and precision in the sorting process, leading to more accurate material categorization.

The conference will delve into the potential of digitalization technologies, emphasizing how they can enhance product traceability and streamline the recycling process by efficiently identifying material composition. These advancements contribute significantly to making recycling efforts more effective and sustainable.

One of the most exciting aspects of the event will be the exploration of generative design algorithms. Attendees will see how these algorithms create innovative products and packaging designs that reduce the use of plastic and materials without compromising performance specifications. Such advancements hold the promise of reshaping our approach to plastic usage and waste generation.

Participants can expect engaging discussions on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the implementation of these transformative solutions. The event will also explore the potential impact of AI and digitalization on plastic waste handling and how they can accelerate progress towards a circular economy.

"This conference is a platform for knowledge exchange and sharing insights on these cutting-edge solutions," said Iván D. López, SPE’s Director of Technical Programs. "We are excited to bring together industry leaders, researchers, and technology providers who are driving change in the plastic waste reduction landscape. Together, we can pave the way for a sustainable future."

Register Now

Registration for Reducing Plastic Waste Through Artificial Intelligence and Digitalization is now open. To register for the conference, please visit www.4spe.org/ReducingPlasticWaste.

Call for Speakers

SPE is also extending a Call for Speakers to present at Reducing Plastic Waste Through Artificial Intelligence and Digitalization. Potential speakers include professionals/companies with extensive expertise in:

• AI and digitalization technologies aimed at minimizing waste.
• AI in waste collection logistics.
• AI sorting solutions.
• Generative design algorithms for optimizing waste reduction.
• Digitalization strategies within circular economy.
• Scientists and researchers from both academia and industry actively engaged in utilizing AI digitalization to combat plastic waste.

To submit your abstract, go to: www.4spe.org/ReducingPlasticWasteCFS.