27 January 2026 • 2 minute read
DLA Piper at ACI's EPR Think Tank 2026
Packaging EPR Compliance & Sustainability InsightsNavigating emerging U.S. packaging EPR regulations
DLA Piper was proud to be the lead sponsor of ACI’s EPR Think Tank held on January 27-28, 2026 in New York City.
At the conference, Kristy Balsanek, Meaghan Colligan Hembree, and Felicia Isaac joined top thought leaders in the industry to explore the latest developments in Extended Producer Responsibility.
Thank you to those who joined “Beyond EPR—Greenwashing, Sustainability, and Portfolio Strategy,” an invitation‑only networking dinner and fireside chat. We appreciated the opportunity to enjoy an evening of delicious cuisine, engaging conversation and shared expertise.
Exclusive networking dinner and fireside chat
Beyond EPR—Greenwashing, Sustainability & Portfolio Strategy
January 27, 2026 | The Landing | 1 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10119
Join us for an evening of thoughtful conversation and meaningful connection as we explore what’s next for EPR and adjacent issues shaping sustainability strategy.
Discussion topics include:
- Greenwashing risks and evolving regulatory scrutiny
- How expanding EPR laws impact broader product portfolios
- Practical steps for aligning sustainability goals with compliance realities
Schedule:
- 6:00 – Cocktail reception
- 6:30 – Dinner
- 7:30 – Dessert and fireside chat
Attendance is by invitation only, and space is limited. For questions regarding the dinner event, please email Jacquelin Wong.
DLA Piper's EPR Think Tank Speakers
Understanding the purpose, policies, and politics of packaging EPR law
With packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws rapidly taking shape across the U.S., it’s essential to start with a clear understanding of what EPR is, why it’s being adopted now, and how it works in practice.
- Understanding the purpose and mechanics of EPR
- Examining the on-the-ground realities that influenced EPR legislation (waste collection systems in urban vs. rural states)
- Exploring key considerations for stakeholders before and during the legislative process
Navigating the Maze of State EPR Packaging Laws
With six states now having passed EPR for packaging- Oregon, Colorado, Minnesota, Maryland, Washington, and more on the horizon, this panel will provide a status check on where each stands and what producers need to know heading into 2026, from understanding what’s required, who’s responsible, and how to track it all across jurisdictions.
- Survey of state EPR laws and common elements
- Understanding what types of packaging are covered under current laws and where the gaps and gray areas lie
- Finding solutions to the growing challenge of tracking and interpreting this shifting regulatory landscape
- Looking ahead to 2026 legislative sessions in states like New York, Illinois, and New Jersey- why bills failed this past year and what might change
