SPC Advance 2025: From Intent to Intelligent Action

Boston set the stage for another inspiring Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) Advance conference - where innovation, data, and collaboration took center stage. Adept Group was proud to join the conversation, sharing insights in our session “From Obligation to Optimization: EPR Fee Forecasting and Reduction,” and explore how AI is reshaping the path toward smarter compliance and measurable sustainability outcomes. 

Top 5 Takeaways from SPC Advance 2025

1. AI Is the Next Frontier of EPR Efficiency 

Across sessions and roundtables, one message was clear: manual data entry and fragmented systems can’t keep up with today’s regulatory pace. Industry leaders emphasized AI as the core infrastructure for future compliance, connecting packaging material data, sustainability metrics, and cost models to automate reporting and uncover new savings opportunities. 

2. Digital Transformation Is Long Overdue 

Despite advancements in analytics and ESG reporting, many EPR and sustainability teams are still trapped in spreadsheets and static documents. The need for connected cloud-based platforms from linking packaging, finance, and regulatory data was a recurring theme. Digitization isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about unlocking visibility and insight that drive competitive advantage. 

3. Intent Meets Innovation 

Main stage speakers like Dr. Foley and Andrew Winston challenged brands to align moral ambition with measurable outcomes. The future of sustainable business lies in combining purpose with practicality, data-backed decisions that deliver real, environmental, and economic impact. 

4. Engagement Fuels Momentum 

Every session was buzzing with conversation and collaboration. Attendees weren’t just observing; they were co-creating ideas and frameworks that can accelerate progress across industries. It’s clear that engagement and cross-functional collaboration are critical catalysts for lasting change. 

5. From Policy to Product Execution 

The science and regulatory guidance are there, but scaling impact requires systems capable of translating regulation into action. True progress will come from tools that automate compliance, forecast costs, and transform sustainability initiatives into measurable, profitable outcomes. 

 

Adept’s Role: Turning Insight into Impact 

Presenting “From Obligation to Optimization,” Prateek Lal and Warren Smith explored how producers can use data and AI to forecast EPR fees, identify reduction opportunities, and shift compliance from a cost center to a source of value. 

AI is redefining the way brands navigate EPR. If your team is ready to move beyond spreadsheets and see how intelligent automation can streamline compliance and reduce costs.  

Want to see how AdeptEPR AI can transform and streamline your EPR pain-points?  

Reach out to us today to schedule a demo: inquiry@adeptpackaging.com