The polyolefins sector in Europe is at a turning point. New EU legislation, increasing sustainability requirements and growing public scrutiny are reshaping how polyolefins are produced, used and recycled.
The SPE Innovations in Polyolefins Conference 2026, organised by the SPE Southern Europe Regional Interest Group, brings together researchers and industry experts to address these developments across the value chain. The programme focuses on advancing production methods, improving circularity, navigating regulatory change and exploring future applications of polyolefins.
Over two days in Tarragona, the conference will combine technical sessions, workshops and panel discussions with dedicated networking opportunities — creating space for interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration within the European polyolefins community.
Why this matters to the DPI Community
Polyolefins remain essential to sectors such as packaging, mobility, energy and construction. At the same time, regulatory pressure, circular economy targets and sustainability demands are increasing complexity across the value chain.
Addressing these challenges requires more than incremental improvement. It calls for scientifically grounded innovation, shared learning and coordinated action between industry and academia.
DPI unites industrial partners and leading research groups in a trusted, pre-competitive environment to develop long-term, fundamental polymer research with industrial relevance. Conferences such as the SPE Innovations in Polyolefins Conference 2026 provide an important platform to:
- Share research that bridges fundamental insight and practical application
- Engage in dialogue on regulatory and sustainability transitions
- Strengthen European collaboration in a rapidly changing innovation landscape
We encourage DPI researchers, alumni and industrial partners to contribute to the discussion and connect with peers working on the future of polyolefins.
Stay connected
Are you submitting an abstract or planning to attend? Let us know! We are happy to highlight contributions from the DPI community.