Sustainability may once have seemed like the responsibility of a dedicated sustainability team. Increasingly, though, the decisions involved reach across the bedding business.
Product developers are weighing materials and circular design. Sourcing and operations teams are thinking about packaging, waste, and manufacturing efficiency. Sales and marketing teams need to understand sustainability claims. Company leaders are watching changing regulations and considering how all of it fits into broader business strategy.
That wider reach is reflected in the 2026 ISPA Sustainability Conference, set for Sept. 23-24 in Charlotte, NC.
More than a sustainability conversation
This year’s agenda spans circular product design, recycled and renewable materials, packaging, adhesives, recycling infrastructure, emissions tracking, life-cycle assessment, supply-chain visibility, and sustainability communications.
Regulation is part of the picture, too. Sessions will address mattress and packaging recycling, chemicals of concern, fire safety, trade, consumer protection, and other policy issues affecting the industry.
The business case also runs through the program, with discussions about connecting circularity and sustainability efforts to brand value, competitive positioning, and better decision-making.
That range is exactly why the conference is intended for more than people with “sustainability” in their titles.
Professionals in sales, product development, operations, and executive leadership all have a stake in these conversations. Many sessions are interactive, giving attendees a chance to work through real-world challenges with manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, recyclers, and other industry professionals.
Sustainability may not be part of everyone’s title. But as it becomes more closely connected to product development, regulation, operations, communications, and long-term planning, it is becoming part of more people’s jobs.
And, increasingly, everyone’s business.
The 2026 ISPA Sustainability Conference will be held Sept. 23–24 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Visit ISPASustainability.com for the full agenda and registration information.
