Gandhinagar, September 15: The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 begins today at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, bringing together policymakers, business leaders, experts and environmentalists from across the world to discuss practical ways of reducing waste and making better use of resources.
The four-day forum, being held in South Asia for the first time, will continue until September 18. This year’s theme is **“Circular Economy: Transition for People and Prosperity.”**
More than 2,000 participants from over 65 countries are expected to attend the event. Discussions will focus on sustainable production and consumption, recycling, reuse of materials, resource efficiency, innovation and new approaches to financing the circular economy.
The opening session is expected to be attended by Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, along with other senior officials and international representatives.
A major attraction of the forum will be an international exhibition featuring more than 125 exhibitors. The exhibition will showcase technologies, products and solutions aimed at reducing waste, conserving resources and supporting more sustainable economic activity.
The forum gives India an opportunity to highlight its own efforts in areas such as resource recovery, waste management and sustainable production while learning from approaches being adopted in other countries.
Organisers say the discussions will focus not only on environmental concerns but also on the economic opportunities that can come from using resources more efficiently. A stronger circular economy can help reduce pressure on natural resources while opening up new avenues for businesses, jobs and innovation.
The main forum sessions will be held on September 15 and 16, followed by partner-led Accelerator Sessions on September 17 and 18. The event is expected to provide a platform for governments, industry and other stakeholders to explore practical solutions for a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.
