IAPRI Vice President Mieke Buntinx Named Packaging Woman of Belgium 2026

IAPRI congratulates Vice President Mieke Buntinx on her selection as Packaging Woman of Belgium 2026, recognizing her contributions to packaging research, education, and leadership.

The award, organized jointly by Empack Belgium and the NVC Packaging Centre, highlights female professionals in the packaging sector and promotes diversity, leadership, and a sustainable future. The official announcement took place during Empack Ghent, which brings packaging, logistics, and industrial infrastructure professionals together through its co-location with Transport & Logistics and Logistics & Industrial Build.

Nominated by IAPRI President Yves Wyser, Mieke has devoted nearly 18 years to advancing sustainable packaging research. Through collaborations with international research institutes and industry partners, she connects academic expertise with practical applications. Her work on sustainable, smart, and safe packaging materials supports the packaging sector’s transition toward greater sustainability.

Her contributions also extend to developing future talent. Through teaching and supervision at Hasselt University, KU Leuven, and Ghent University, and her involvement in international Erasmus+ and Erasmus Mundus programmes, she helps prepare the next generation of packaging professionals to address global sustainability challenges.

As IAPRI Vice President, Mieke promotes international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation. Her commitment to connecting researchers, sharing expertise, and supporting others strengthens the global packaging community and reflects IAPRI’s mission to advance packaging research and education.

In his nomination, Yves highlighted both her professional achievements and her dedication to empowering others. IAPRI celebrates this recognition of Mieke’s achievements and her continuing contribution to the future of packaging.