World Circular Economy Forum 2026 Kicks Off in Gandhinagar
Introduction to the Forum
Photo: IANS
September 15: The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 is set to commence in Gandhinagar on Tuesday, highlighting India's efforts to promote circular economy practices and foster international collaboration, according to an official announcement.
Event Details
The forum, themed 'Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity', will be jointly inaugurated by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
This marks the first time South Asia will host the WCEF, as stated by officials earlier this week.
The event is a collaborative effort involving the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) of India, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, the Finnish government, India's Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Government of Gujarat, and the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB).
Participation and Objectives
More than 2,000 participants from over 65 countries are expected to attend, including business leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
The forum aims to enhance global cooperation, promote circular finance, encourage policy discussions, and foster partnerships across various sectors, while advancing innovation and technology for a circular economy.
Circularity emphasizes the importance of reusing, refurbishing, and recycling materials to reintegrate them into the economy as valuable resources.
Leadership and Sessions
Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is undergoing a significant shift towards a modern circular economy, as highlighted in the statement.
Notable attendees at the inaugural session will include Gujarat's Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Arjunbhai Modhwadia, and Finland's Ambassador Mikko Kivikoski, along with senior officials from both the Union and Gujarat governments.
The forum will feature four plenary sessions and 16 thematic sessions on topics such as AI applications, employment opportunities, energy production, finance, governance, sustainable products, industrial solutions, the start-up ecosystem, and youth leadership on September 15 and 16.
Expo and Additional Meetings
Additionally, an expo with over 125 national and international exhibitors will present practical circular solutions and investment-ready innovations developed by start-ups.
On the sidelines of the WCEF, the Board of the 10 Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns (10 YFP) will convene in person on September 15 in Gandhinagar, reflecting India's leadership in sustainable practices.
On September 17 and 18, global partners will host 80 accelerator sessions, both online and in-person, at Gandhinagar and various locations worldwide.