Two inspiring days of learning, connection, and composting in action brought the 2026 BPI Summit theme, Right Recipe, Right People, to life. From firsthand facility tours to interactive discussions and networking, this year’s Summit brought together stakeholders across the composting and compostable products value chain to share experiences, explore challenges, and discover opportunities for progress.
One message stood out: BPI Certified compostable products can break down in real-world composting systems and serve as tools to support organics diversion and the transition away from conventional plastics. Seeing these systems firsthand helped connect certification and product performance with the people processing compostables and turning organic materials into valuable finished compost.
A huge thank-you to Spurt Industries and Hammond Farms for welcoming attendees to their composting operations. In post-Summit feedback, participants highlighted the value of seeing facilities in action, comparing how different operations approach composting, and learning directly from the people doing the work. For many, these hands-on experiences were among the most impactful parts of the Summit, bringing practical insights to conversations about how compostable products fit into organics recovery systems.
At Michigan State University, attendees explored campus initiatives to divert food waste, including food scrap collection and management, alongside research into innovative approaches to organics. These examples highlighted how certified compostable products can complement food scraps in well-designed diversion programs when product design, collection systems, and processing infrastructure work together.
The Summit’s blend of presentations, field experiences, and networking also resonated with attendees. Survey respondents praised the mix of educational sessions and tours, noting that the interactive format created opportunities to learn in new ways and made it easier to connect with peers. Roundtable discussions brought together different perspectives from across the value chain, encouraging conversations about shared challenges and potential solutions.
Throughout the Summit, participants exchanged ideas on policy, microplastics and soil health, bioplastics, and the future of compostable packaging. BPI’s annual Member Meeting provided another opportunity to strengthen connections and look ahead. Attendees also expressed enthusiasm for continuing conversations around packaging innovation, policy developments, and real-world experiences with compostable products—topics that will help shape future opportunities for collaboration.
Also, a special shoutout to Marcus Smith and the Lincoln Park Chick-fil-A team for generously donating breakfast for one of our Summit mornings! As participants in Chick-fil-A’s composting program, the team also helps divert food waste in partnership with My Green Michigan. We’re grateful to businesses that support our composting community through their sustainability efforts and by helping fuel events like ours.
Thank you to our sponsors for making the Summit possible, and to our presenters, attendees, exhibitors, and partners for bringing their expertise and enthusiasm. Special thanks to our tour hosts at Spurt Industries, Michigan State University, and Hammond Farms for opening their doors and sharing their work with our community.
The conversations and connections made throughout the Summit reinforced the importance of bringing the entire value chain together. Progress depends on collaboration among composters, packaging manufacturers, material suppliers, brands, policymakers, and other stakeholders to advance organics diversion and identify where compostable products can make the greatest impact.
The right recipe for progress takes real-world learning, shared experiences, and collaboration. With the right ingredients and people at the table, we can turn these connections into meaningful action and continue moving the composting and compostable products industry forward—together.
Please see below for event pictures!
A Summit recap video and individual presentation recordings coming soon. Stay tuned!
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Dates: October 14-15, 2026
This year, we’re going beyond the usual conference space. The 2026 BPI Summit is designed as our most immersive event to date—featuring three industry tours, real-world learning, a focused half-day summit, and an evening reception across two days in Michigan.
By stepping into operational composting environments, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how systems work in practice. It’s an experience that goes beyond what can be captured on a screen—you have to see it firsthand.
Registration is OPEN. Register via the registration tab above. Please reserve your spot today, as this is a curated event with limited tickets available.
Explore the other event tabs as well to book your hotel room at the preferred BPI Summit rate, discover all that Detroit has to offer, and learn more about opportunities for sponsoring this hands-on, immersive gathering.
Registration is NOW OPEN! Reserve your spot below before Early Bird Pricing ends on July 31.
NOTE: With the busyness of the Fall season, reserving your hotel room as soon as possible is highly recommended to ensure you receive the preferred Summit rate. Please see the Hotel + Travel tab above.
Also, thank you to all our amazing sponsors so far! View them via the 'Our Sponsors' tab above.
BPI has secured special rates for BPI Summit attendees at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, a historic luxury hotel located in the heart of Downtown Detroit. Please make your reservations using the reservation button below.
The cut-off date to make a reservation is Monday, September 28, 2026. ONLY 15 ROOMS LEFT - BOOK NOW TO SECURE THE CHEAPEST RATES IN DOWNTOWN DETROIT.
Check In: Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Check Out: Friday, October 16, 2026
NOTE: October is a VERY busy month in Detroit, and hotel space is limited. We recommend booking your hotel as soon as possible to secure the discounted rate.
Questions or assistance needed? Contact ryder@greenfernevents.com.
PHISHING ALERT: BPI does not use a hotel room booking agency. If you are contacted by someone offering to book your guest room, be advised not to use them.
The WESTIN BOOK CADILLAC DETROIT | 1114 Washington, Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226
*Please note: All reservations require a credit card to secure, but you will not be charged until the time of check-in. Valid ID and a credit card are required upon check-in.
Rate: $299/night + tax (16%)
*Self-parking available on the street or in nearby garage
DTW — Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
PLEASE NOTE: Bus transportation is provided for all tours during the BPI Summit. We kindly ask that all attendees utilizes our bus transportation as parking is not guaranteed at any of the 3 tour sites.
Uber / Lyft — Most convenient. Pick up at Big Blue Deck (Level 1) or McNamara Garage (Level 4)
Taxi — Available at Ground Transportation Center. Est. $20–$60
DAX Bus (Detroit Air Xpress) — Direct bus to Washington Blvd, steps from the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel. ~$6–$8. Runs daily.
Rental Car — Detroit Airport Vehicle Rentals
This year, the 2026 BPI Summit is taking a more immersive, experiential approach—bringing participants beyond the usual conference space and into the field. The program will feature three industry tours, hands-on learning, and real-world applications, alongside a focused half-day Summit session and evening reception.
We’re intentionally prioritizing in-person connection and shared experience—because understanding how composting systems operate at scale can’t be replicated in a virtual setting. From infrastructure to end markets, this is a chance to see the industry up close and in action.
That’s why your sponsorship matters. It helps make these experiences possible and supports the continued growth and visibility of compostable products, composting infrastructure, and the circular bioeconomy within real-world systems.
Please contact Emily Kahn to become a sponsor: emily@greenfernevents.com | (703) 855-4310
See sponsorship benefits below.
View the 2026 BPI Sponsorship Prospectus here.
*Tabletop Display Space: Please note that exhibiting sponsors will have one afternoon of exhibit hours (Wednesday, Oct. 14).
$18,000 (2/2 Available)
$10,000 (7/8 Available)
$5,000 (4/10 Available)
$2,000 (9/10 Available)
$15,000 (1/1 Available)
Bars & Nightlife Near the Hotel
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
Note: Dedicated vegan/vegetarian restaurants are mostly outside of walking distance. The options below include nearby spots with strong plant-based menus, plus a couple worth the short rideshare.
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)
Comerica Park / Little Caesars Arena
Other Attractions & Things To Do
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Use the images and copy suggestions below to showcase to your networks that you'll be part of the conversation this Fall!
Whether you're an attendee, sponsor, or just want to help spread the word, there's an option for everyone to post on their social media.
Images:
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Option 1
Registration is open for the 2026 BPI Summit—THE industry event for composting and compostable products. Don’t miss it - we’ve already secured our tickets!
What you need to know:
Register today: https://bpiworld.org/2026-bpi-summit#2/
Option 2
Some things can't be learned from a presentation—you have to see them in action. Experience operational composting facilities, connect with industry leaders, and take part in real conversations at the 2026 BPI Summit, October 14–15 in Detroit. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today: https://bpiworld.org/2026-bpi-summit#2/
Images:
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Option 1
We’re proud to sponsor the #2026BPISummit!
Join us in supporting the conversations shaping the future of composting and compostable products. As a sponsor of the 2026 BPI Summit, you'll support the connection of industry stakeholders during an immersive, hands-on event built around learning, collaboration, and meaningful networking. Explore sponsorship opportunities here: https://bpiworld.org/2026-bpi-summit#6/
Option 2
We’re proud to sponsor the #2026BPISummit!
The 2026 BPI Summit brings together the organizations driving progress across the composting ecosystem. You can also put your brand alongside THE industry event for composting and compostable products through a sponsorship that creates valuable visibility and meaningful connections. Learn more here: https://bpiworld.org/2026-bpi-summit#6/
#2026BPISummit, #GreenEvents #CompostingIndustry #CompostableProducts #FutureForward #Sustainability #Immersive #ExperientialLearning
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