High-Level Discussions and Training Still Possible During Pandemic
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It may sometimes feel that the world stopped during the global COVID crisis, but industry professionals know too well that many mills actually increased production in the past months to meet consumer demand. Operating safely in this “new normal” has resulted in cutting-edge innovations, updated processes and procedures as well as the development of potential new revenue streams. Now more than ever, industry professionals need to share knowledge and experiences to help ensure the future success of the industry.
PEERS offers a safe, convenient platform for the exchange of ideas and training.
TAPPI’s Pulping, Engineering, Environmental, Recycling and Sustainability (PEERS) Conference, November 2-4, unveils a new, all-virtual format, creating an opportunity for industry professionals to participate in high quality technical sessions, research, keynote addresses, and hot topics discussions without leaving their mill or office. Mills can save money and time while still offering exceptional training opportunities safely to employees. As an added bonus, they also have the option of attending next week’s virtual sessions live or up to a year later “on demand.”
PEERS comprehensive, peer-reviewed program includes tracks focused on:
- Energy, Recovery, Lime Kiln & Recaust
- Engineering, Reliability, Corrosion & Materials
- Environmental & Sustainability
- Nonwoods
- Pulping & Bleaching
- Recycling
Co-Located with IBBC 2020. Attend TWO Conferences for ONE Registration Fee.
TAPPI’s International Bioenergy & Bioproducts Conference (IBBC) will be co-located with PEERS 2020 in a virtual format. Attendees will experience an expert-led technical program focused on critical issues associated with biomass. Sessions include:
- Biomass Processing and Conversion Pathways
- Wood-based Foams and Packaging Films
- Biocomposites and Bioproducts
- Supporting the Sustainable Bioeconomy
- Advances in Bioenergy Research
Two Industry Leaders to Keynote
PEERS and IBBC 2020 attendees will also have the opportunity to hear keynotes from two industry leaders. Steve Voorhees, chief operating officer of WestRock, will deliver the PEERS keynote address on Monday, November 2 at 11:30 am (ET). Voorhees’ presentation, "Imagining and Delivering on the Promise of a More Sustainable Future,” will highlight packaging’s role in a more circular economy, and the critical importance of corporate sustainability planning that includes people and communities.
J. Richard Hess, Ph.D. will keynote IBBC 2020 on Tuesday, November 3 at 11:00 am (ET). Hess is the director of Idaho National Lab’s (INL) Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Program Office, which is part of the United States Department of Energy (DOE). Hess’ presentation, "Turning Raw Resources into Feedstocks; Challenges and Opportunities,” focuses on the need to fully recognize the magnitude of variability and uncertainty in biomass resources, as well as the cost of failing to design feedstock-supply systems that can mitigate that variability and uncertainty.
Hot Topics Breakfasts
Attendees will have the opportunity to virtually engage with industry peers during the Hot Topics Breakfast discussions held on Monday and Tuesday, November 2-3. Each discussion, moderated by an industry expert, focuses on a specific topic that is “hot” in the industry right now. The new virtual format allows pulp and paper professionals from around the world a chance to share experiences, knowledge and ideas as well as ask questions about areas most relevant to them.
PaperChase Fun Run/Walk
Attendees are encouraged to also participate in the first-ever virtual PaperChase Fun Run/Walk. Whether you choose to run, walk or just relax, you can support the Engineering Scholarship program and help students achieve a bright future in the pulp and paper industry. Learn more.
For Conference details and to register, visit tappipeers.org or tappi-ibbc.org.
