Covering the trends that matter

E-Scrap Conference 2025 Session and Workshop Descriptions

Please note: The 2025 schedule is under development and subject to change.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 27

  • Pick up your attendee badge and conference materials.

  • WORKSHOP LEADER:

    • Daniel Mackarevich, Arthur Hall Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Company

    Think insurance is dull? Not this time. In this workshop, our expert from Marsh McLennan brings decades of industry know-how and eye-opening insights that will change the way you look at coverage. You’ll hear surprising stories, uncover little-known strategies and learn how to avoid the costly pitfalls that trip up too many recycling businesses. Best of all, you’ll walk away with knowledge that can protect your company and save you serious money. Who knew insurance could actually be… fun?

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    This dynamic workshop, powered by the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA), will provide attendees with an insider’s perspective on the top policy and advocacy initiatives shaping the future of electronics recycling and reuse in North America. Designed for recyclers, refurbishers, manufacturers, and sustainability professionals, this session will spotlight the strategic priorities of ReMA’s Electronics Division as we navigate a rapidly evolving regulatory and technological landscape. Attendees will learn about ReMA's federal- and state-level policy efforts, the association's battery extended producer responsibility working group, focus areas for 2025, the benefits of ReMA membership, and upcoming ReMA events and engagement opportunities. There will also be an opportunity for open dialogue on topics raised by attendees.

  • WORKSHOP LEADER:

    The ITAD sector has seen many moments that were described as transformational—from the Green IT wave to the post-2008 merger cycle. But time and again, the big shifts were either short-lived or driven by internal ambitions that didn’t quite stick.

    Today, however, the pressure for change isn’t coming from within the industry—it’s coming from its clients. Enterprises are undergoing major IT infrastructure changes, facing stricter regulatory environments, and demanding higher levels of data security and ESG accountability. Certifications like ISO 27001 and SOC 2 are becoming minimum requirements, not differentiators.

    On the ground, we are seeing strong demand for refurbished systems, growing activity in data center decommissioning, and rising expectations around compliance and ESG, pushing the sector in new directions. But with that momentum comes risk: tighter OEM control, shifting regulations, and an unpredictable global market.

    In this interactive workshop, David Daoud, principal analyst at Compliance Standards, will share key insights from ongoing research into the ITAD landscape—supported by conversations across the industry, including with ITAD companies, their enterprise clients, and OEM partners. Together, we’ll explore where the real growth signals are, what risks could derail progress, and how providers can adapt to stay relevant in a more demanding, less predictable environment.

    In this 90 minute session, participants will take part in live polls and guided discussions to compare notes, surface blind spots, and think through what’s next—strategically and practically. If you work in ITAD or partner with those who do, this session is designed to give you clarity, perspective, and a few useful questions to take back to your team.

  • WORKSHOP LEADER:

    Get ready to shake things up! This workshop from TERRA, the leading network of certified e-scrap processors and ITAD providers, will spark fresh ideas for how you market your company. Through interactive exercises and peer collaboration, you’ll be challenged to think outside the box and uncover fun new ways to position your business in the industry.

    Together, you’ll explore how to create a distinct voice, define your unique selling proposition, and develop creative tactics to amplify your messaging and attract new customers. You won’t just sit back and listen, you’ll brainstorm, collaborate and leave with actionable ideas (and maybe a few laughs) to energize your brand.

  • WORKSHOP LEADER:

    Employees don’t have to be the weakest link in cybersecurity—they can be your strongest defense. This session will show how to turn everyday staff into vigilant defenders through simple cyber hygiene habits, engaging training methods and a culture that makes security second nature.

  • Enjoy a plated networking lunch to keep your energy up through the afternoon.

  • WORKSHOP LEADER:

    The recycling programs under the 25 state electronics recycling laws are evolving and, in some cases, expanding. This workshop by the Electronics Recycling Coordination Clearinghouse (ERCC) will feature expert panels and discussions on key areas where the state electronics recycling programs are changing and examining the overlap with the increasing number of battery laws. Topics will include recent legislative amendments to the laws, the latest data on collection volumes and which devices are being returned, as well tools that help all stakeholders navigate the changing state electronics recycling programs.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    • Cedric Carter, Ethos Business Solutions

    Join us for an in-depth, interactive workshop exploring how enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms are transforming the IT asset disposition (ITAD), electronics reuse and scrap industries. This session will uncover the core capabilities, critical gaps and emerging innovations in ERP systems, as they apply to reverse logistics, serialization, in-process tracking and compliance. Designed for operations leaders, IT professionals and business owners, this workshop will share real-world case studies, including lessons learned from successful ERP implementations, and offer hands-on guidance for selecting, optimizing, or scaling your ERP system to meet ITAD and reuse-specific challenges. Whether you’re upgrading your legacy tools or evaluating your first ERP, this session is your roadmap to smarter, more efficient operations.

  • WORKSHOP LEADERS:

    This workshop will introduce attendees to the process of certification. Attendees will be presented with a roadmap of the steps along the way to certification, including picking standards, the certification and auditing process, and the resources available to help them each step of the way. Experts will demystify the process, provide a forum for open discussion and give attendees an opportunity to meet key players in the certification space all in one room.

  • SPEAKERS:

    Certification isn’t just about compliance—it’s a competitive advantage. This session shows how aligning with recognized standards can build trust, boost credibility and unlock new market opportunities. Learn how to turn certification into a strategic tool for growth.

  • Please Note: Attendance is capped at 100 for this event; be sure to sign up to secure your spot (registration coming soon).

    FACILITATOR:

    Looking to make new connections fast? Join us for E-Scrap Speed Networking, a high-energy session designed to spark conversations and grow your professional network. Whether you’re seeking new business partners, future collaborators or just want to meet more people in the industry, this is your chance to make it happen.

    Guided by our lively MC, Joe Clayton, you’ll rotate through quick, focused conversations with fellow attendees—giving you a fun and efficient way to expand your contacts in just one session.

    Stay tuned—sign-ups will open soon! Spots are limited, so be ready to grab your seat when registration goes live.

  • SPEAKER:

    It's never a dull time in the business of electronics recycling and IT asset disposition, and 2025 has continued to prove that point. Sweeping federal regulatory changes, an evolving global trade landscape, a heightened focus on domestic metals sourcing, a fast-moving artificial intelligence rollout driving data center growth—all of these trends are filtering down to push and pull the e-scrap industry in different directions. In this state-of-the-industry discussion, leading electronics recycling and ITAD industry executives discuss the evolution of the industry against the background of these broad trends, and what they mean for the economics of electronics recovery.

  • Explore the exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall and swing by the E-Scrap Tavern, a dedicated space where attendees can meet informally, share insights and unwind over drinks.

  • Gather with your peers in our Exhibit Hall for our networking reception.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28

  • Pick up your attendee badge and conference materials.

  • Explore the exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall and swing by the E-Scrap Tavern, a dedicated space where attendees can meet informally, share insights and unwind over drinks.

  • Coffee, tea and breakfast provided to power attendees through the day’s schedule.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    Recent years have brought major ITAD industry acquisitions, with companies such as ITRenew, Regency Technologies and Wisetek all coming under the Iron Mountain umbrella; longtime ITAD players Cascade Asset Management and Sage Sustainable Electronics joining forces under the Closed Loop Partners portfolio; and countless more electronics recovery players taking on private equity investment. Hear from leaders at companies that have first-hand experience with ITAD mergers and acquisitions, including Iron Mountain and Cascade/Sage, as well as expert insights from the financial sector and analysis from industry intelligence firm Compliance Standards, on why we're seeing elevated investment activity and what it means for the ITAD sector in years to come.

  • Enjoy a short break between sessions.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    • Scott Snowden, E-Scrap News

    Rare earth metals, once an obscure material stream, are in the public eye like never before, caught up in global trade tensions. As the U.S. government prioritizes domestic sourcing of these metals - and other critical minerals - the end-of-life electronics stream is gaining attention as a feedstock supply channel. In this discussion, several emerging leaders in the business of recovering rare earths from end-of-life electronic devices describe the state of this business sector, the economics of rare earth recovery, and how the heightened public interest is filtering down to drive this industry's growth.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    • Resource Recycling

    The electronics stream is constantly changing, and so are the materials coming onto the processing floor. This session explores how processors are handling emerging materials like solar panels, as well as longstanding challenging materials like batteries and e-plastics. Hear from processors who have brought capacity for these streams in-house, and learn about emerging technology to help turn these challenges into opportunities.

  • Enjoy a plated networking lunch to keep your energy up through the afternoon.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    Electronics processors are caught in a difficult place in the end-of-life battery management chain. Upstream, an inconsistent battery collection system means batteries end up in e-scrap facilities whether the processor wants them or not, and downstream, there is a fragmented landscape of domestic end markets and unpredictable economics. In this session, we explore both sides of the equation that processors find themselves stuck in. EPA and research experts describe their work to facilitate stronger and more streamlined collection nationwide, while leading battery processors provide a picture of the downstream market and offer the business perspective on handling the growing volume of end-of-life batteries.

  • SPEAKERS:

    As right-to-repair laws move from proposal to implementation in the U.S. and EU, manufacturers and the broader recovery ecosystem are adapting quickly. From the EU Battery Regulation to state-level bans on part pairing, new policies are directly reshaping how products are designed, serviced and recovered.

    This session brings together OEMs, affiliated service providers, independents, recyclers and policy advocates to explore the practical realities of repairability. Panelists will discuss:

    • The design changes required to comply with emerging laws.

    • How service part supply chains are evolving to support ASPs, ISPs and DIY fixers, including pricing, availability and restrictions.

    • The impacts of part pairing practices on compliance and repair access.

    • What recyclers are seeing as designs shift, from easier harvesting of components to challenges in disassembly.

    • How advocacy and legislation are shaping the next generation of circular electronics policy.

    By bridging perspectives across the value chain, this session will unpack the tensions, opportunities and collaborations needed to align product design with long-term reuse, refurbishment and recycling goals.

  • Enjoy a short break between sessions.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    Advances in machine learning and AI are opening the door to speedier device processing by enhancing automation in disassembly. Our panel of leading equipment suppliers will dive into this and several other emerging e-scrap processing technology trends, focusing in particular on device disassembly, and plastics and metals processing.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    Global waste crusader Jim Puckett of the Basel Action Network (BAN) will moderate (and instigate) a dynamic conversation on the ongoing challenges of electronic and plastic waste exports. The session will explore the origins of global concern around illegal and unsustainable shipments to developing countries and examine their shocking resurgence in destinations such as Malaysia.

    Panelists—including Chris Kaasman of Green Chip Recyclers, Emily Farrant of GreenEye, Neil Peters-Michaud of Sage, and other expert stakeholders—will discuss why this trend is happening, what is legal and illegal under current frameworks, and what industry players can do to address the issue in the era of ESG.

    Topics include:

    • Basel Convention developments

    • What’s legal vs. illegal?

    • Why the problem is resurging

    • What industry can do

  • SPEAKERS:

    • Olivier Delesalle, 3M

    • Colin Ravenscroft, Microsoft

    MODERATORS:

    As policy, consumer demand and environmental goals increasingly push manufacturers to extend product lifespans, design decisions made upstream are having major downstream effects—especially for those working in reuse, refurbishment and end-of-life recovery. In this session, leading OEMs discuss how design for serviceability, battery replacement and modularity is evolving in practice. From redesigned enclosures to repair-friendly architectures, panelists will explore what it really means to design for longevity in today’s regulatory and business climate. They’ll also share insights into how internal teams are influencing external design standards, the trade-offs involved in modularity, and the remaining tensions between reliability, safety, and repairability. Finally, the session will highlight how manufacturers can better align with the recovery and reuse ecosystem to support a more circular electronics economy.

  • Gather with your peers in our Exhibit Hall for our networking reception.

  • REGISTER HERE

    It’s Game Time at ESC2025!

    Join us for the 1st Annual Greenchip Pickleball Invitational—an evening of friendly competition, networking and fun. Whether you're playing or cheering, enjoy an open bar, prizes and great company on Tuesday, October 27 at 7:00 PM (shuttles provided). Paddles and balls are covered—just bring your energy. 

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29

  • Pick up your attendee badge and conference materials.

  • Explore the exhibitors in the Exhibit Hall and swing by the E-Scrap Tavern, a dedicated space where attendees can meet informally, share insights and unwind over drinks.

  • Coffee, tea and breakfast provided to power attendees through the day’s schedule.

  • SPEAKERS:

    • Kristen Hildreth, VP of Government Relations and Public Policy, ReMA

    • Erin McCoy, International Policy Analyst, ReMA

    MODERATOR:

    This session takes a step back from the industry-specific agenda to focus on the broader political and legislative landscape shaping electronics reuse and recycling. ReMA’s Government Relations team will provide a high-level overview of the current administration’s actions, regulatory priorities, and the evolving tone in Washington as we enter the second half of the 119th Congress.

    Key topics will include:

    • Federal agency initiatives impacting electronics recyclers and refurbishers.

    • Congressional trends and potential legislation on sustainability, data security, and critical minerals.

    • What industry stakeholders should watch for in the 2025–2026 legislative cycle.

  • Enjoy a short break between sessions.

  • SPEAKERS:

    MODERATOR:

    Take a trip through time with some of the most iconic voices in the recycling industry. This special panel brings together legendary publisher Jerry Powell alongside long-time industry veterans who have shaped the conversation around materials recovery for decades. Together, they’ll share stories of how the industry once operated, reflect on the pivotal changes that have defined its evolution, and offer candid insights on where recycling is headed next. Equal parts history lesson and future forecast, this session is a rare chance to hear from the people who built the foundation for today’s recycling movement.

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