Gandhinagar to Host World Circular Economy Forum 2026

GANDHINAGAR : Gandhinagar is set to become the global centre of the circular economy conversation as South Asia hosts the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) for the first time, bringing together more than 2,000 stakeholders from over 65 countries to push solutions for a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

The two-day WCEF 2026 will be held at Mahatma Mandir on September 15 and 16 under the theme “Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity.” Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will jointly inaugurate the forum on Tuesday.

The forum aims to create a global platform for cross-sector partnerships, circular finance and innovation while showcasing India’s efforts to move towards a resource-efficient economy.

“The circular economy is about keeping materials and products in use for as long as possible through reuse, refurbishment and recycling. It is an important pathway towards sustainable growth,” organisers said.

The event is being jointly organised by the Central Pollution Control Board, Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, Government of Finland, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Gujarat and Gujarat Pollution Control Board.

The programme will feature four plenary sessions and 16 thematic sessions covering artificial intelligence, employability, energy generation, finance, governance, sustainable products and the start-up ecosystem.

A major attraction will be an international expo featuring more than 125 national and international exhibitors showcasing practical circular economy solutions, including innovations developed by start-ups.

More than 2,000 business leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, academicians and other stakeholders are expected to participate.

“The forum will strengthen international cooperation and help build partnerships that can convert circular economy ideas into scalable solutions,” organisers said.

The main forum will be followed by 80 Accelerator Sessions on September 17-18, organised by global partners through online, hybrid and in-person formats in Gandhinagar and other locations worldwide.

Union Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh will attend the closing ceremony on September 16, alongside Finland’s Climate and Environment Minister Sari Multala and senior Gujarat ministers and officials.

The forum will conclude with the formal handover to the next host by Sitra President Atte Jääskeläinen.