India to Host World Circular Economy Forum 2026 in Gandhinagar

India will host the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, from September 15 to 18, bringing together policymakers, businesses, innovators and researchers from across the world to explore ways to make economic growth more sustainable and resource-efficient.

The forum, being held in South Asia for the first time, will be organised under the theme “Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity.” Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel will jointly inaugurate the event on September 15.

More than 2,000 stakeholders from over 65 countries are expected to participate, including business leaders, entrepreneurs, start-ups, researchers, academics, policymakers and environmental experts. The forum will focus on strengthening international cooperation, particularly with the Global South, while promoting circular finance, private-sector investment, innovation, digitalisation and technology.

A circular economy seeks to move away from the traditional “use and discard” model by reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling products and materials and returning them to the economy as valuable resources.

The forum will feature four plenary sessions and 16 thematic sessions on September 15 and 16. Discussions will cover areas including artificial intelligence, employment opportunities, energy, finance, governance, sustainable products, industrial solutions, start-ups and youth leadership.

An international expo featuring more than 125 exhibitors will showcase practical circular-economy solutions, including innovations developed by start-ups and investment-ready technologies.

The event will also host an in-person meeting of the Board of the 10-Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns (10 YFP) on September 15. India has recently assumed the role of Co-Chair of the board, reflecting its growing role in promoting sustainable consumption and production.

On September 17 and 18, global partners will organise around 80 accelerator sessions in online, hybrid and in-person formats in Gandhinagar and other locations worldwide.

The forum will conclude with a closing ceremony on September 18, with the formal handover to the next host. The event is expected to reinforce global efforts to build an economy that is more sustainable, resilient and prosperous through circularity.