WCEF 2026 in India for the First Time—A Global Platform for the Circular Economy
The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 is being organized in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from September 15 to 18; this marks the first time the event is being held in South Asia. Its theme is "Circular Economy: Transformation for People and Prosperity," emphasizing resource reuse, recycling, and sustainable production. Over 2,000 delegates from more than 65 countries will discuss finance, investment, innovation, digitalization, technology, and sustainable development. WCEF 2026 will strengthen India's role within the Global South and bolster international cooperation in the fields of sustainable consumption, production, and the circular economy.
The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 is scheduled to take place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from September 15 to 18, 2026. This is the first edition of the WCEF to be hosted in South Asia. The event's theme is "Circular Economy: Transformation for People and Prosperity."
Concept of the Circular Economy
The circular economy is an economic system wherein resources, after use, are not discarded as waste but are instead reused, refurbished, recycled, and reintegrated into the economic value chain. Its objective is to enhance resource efficiency, minimize waste, and reduce the strain on natural resources.
Focus on Global Participation and Investment
WCEF 2026 is expected to see the participation of over 2,000 delegates from more than 65 countries. Attendees will include policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs, academicians, and innovators. The forum will facilitate discussions on topics such as finance and investment for the circular economy, policy cooperation, innovation, digitalization, and technology.
Exhibition and Technical Sessions
At the international exhibition, over 125 national and international exhibitors will showcase technologies and practical solutions related to the circular economy. The event features plenary and parallel sessions covering topics such as AI, employment, energy, finance, governance, sustainable products, industrial applications, startups, and youth leadership.
Institutional Collaboration for WCEF 2026
WCEF 2026 is a joint initiative involving the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Sitra (Finnish Innovation Fund), the Government of Finland, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Government of Gujarat, and the Gujarat Pollution Control Board. Additionally, a meeting of the Board of the '10-Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production' (10YFP) is being held in Gandhinagar.
The Global South and India's Role
WCEF 2026 offers an opportunity to strengthen India's cooperation with the Global South and its leadership in sustainable development. India assuming the role of co-chair of the 10YFP Board further highlights its growing role in the sphere of sustainable consumption and production. Approximately 80 'Accelerator Sessions' will be held on September 17–18 in various cities across the globe, including Gandhinagar.
