Letsrecycle.com interview with Dr David Greenfield (CIWM)
When: 9:30AM
Where: Stand RS-F170
Kicking off the morning, letsrecycle.com editor Savannah Coombe speaks to Dr David Greenfield, President of CIWM, ahead of his appearance on the Circular Economy panel.
The Big 5 and the Future of Collections
When: 10:00AM – 11:00AM
Where: RWM Collections & Transport Stage – sponsored by Samsara
Representatives from FCC, Grundon, Suez, Biffa and Veolia join LARAC’s Cathy Cook to examine the role of the “Big 5” materials – plastics, paper, metals, glass and organics –in shaping future collection systems.
Panellists will discuss how the sector is responding to changing waste streams, shifting consumer behaviour and ambitious sustainability targets, with insights into the technologies and collaborative models influencing recovery strategies.
Letsreycle.com interview with Charlotte Davies (CIWM/Beyondly)
When: 10:30AM
Where: Stand RS-F170
Following her “Careers with Impact” talk in the Future Talent Hub, Charlotte Davies will join Savannah Coombe for a one-to-one interview at the Letsrecycle stand.
Davies will also be speaking on the Beyondly, Preston City Council and RECOUP: Pledge2Recycle Plastics Campaign panel in the RWM Circular Economy Theatre.
Circular Economy Taskforce: Driving Real-World Change
When: 10:45AM – 11:45AM
Where: RWM Circular Economy Theatre – sponsored by Juno
In a panel chaired by Jacob Hayler of the ESA, speakers from Green Alliance, CIWM, Suez and ReLondon will examine how Taskforce initiatives are driving change across key material flows, from construction to packaging.
Attendees will hear how policy, procurement and innovation frameworks are evolving to accelerate the shift away from linear models, and gain insight into the collaboration needed to scale circular solutions.
Navigating the New Legislation: Understanding the Deposit Return Scheme
When: 11:30AM – 12:15PM
Where: RWM Packaging Theatre – sponsored by Valpak
With the UK’s deposit return scheme (DRS) set to launch in 2027, this session will unpack what the legislation means for producers, collectors and consumers.
Chaired by Savannah Coombe, panellists from Biffa, Alupro and the ESA will discuss how the scheme will reshape packaging waste streams and highlight the potential for DRS to unlock greater material value.
Landfill Tax Consultation: Shaping Sustainable Waste Management
When: 11:45AM – 12:30PM
Where: RWM Construction & Demolition Theatre – sponsored by Duo Group
The government’s consultation on landfill tax reform comes under the spotlight in this panel chaired by Jenny Watts of UROC. Speakers from SLR Consulting, FCC and Powerday will assess proposals including a single tax rate, exemptions reform and measures to tackle fraud.
The session will explore how changes could shape disposal practices, stimulate innovation and support circular economy goals, while considering the wider impact on operators, regulators and communities.
PackUK: Preparing for Change
When: 12:30PM – 1:30PM
Where: RWM Packaging Theatre – sponsored by Valpak
With the UK’s pEPR scheme entering a crucial phase as the first producer invoices are set for October, this Pack UK session will explore what the transition means for industry.
Chaired by Defra’s Margaret Bates, representatives from PepsiCo, Valpak and Suez will reflect on the policy journey to date and discuss how pEPR can deliver a fairer, more sustainable packaging system.
Waste Not: Visionary Leadership for a Circular Future
When: 12:30PM – 1:30PM
Where: Summit Theatre – sponsored by Suez
Chaired by Anna Willetts of Gunnercooke, speakers from Enfinium, Suez, Biffa, Grundon and FCC will share their perspectives on emerging trends and challenges before engaging in a moderated Q&A.
The session offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from senior figures shaping the sector’s direction.
35U35 Awards
When: 2:00PM – 4:00PM
Where: Future Talent Hub – sponsored by Grundon
Celebrating the rising stars of the environmental sector, the 35 Under 35 Awards showcases individuals driving innovation, professional excellence and community impact.
The free-to-attend event will not only recognise this year’s cohort of trailblazers, but also feature reflections from past award winners on how they see the sector evolving in the decade ahead.
ESS Expo Delivers the Environment 100 Awards
When: 2:45PM – 4:15PM
Where: Summit Theatre – sponsored by Suez
The Environment 100 Awards celebrate the leaders, innovators and unsung heroes advancing environmental sustainability across the UK.
This event will highlight the individuals making a significant impact in the sector, offering recognition to those whose vision and dedication are helping shape a greener future.
The full conference speaker agenda is now available to view on the ESS Expo website, here.
To register to attend ESS Expo 2025 from 17-18 September at the NEC, Birmingham, visit the website: www.ess-expo.co.uk/rwm
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