The World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026, taking place in Gandhinagar, India, from 15–18 September 2026, is the world’s leading forum dedicated to scaling up the circular economy and bringing together stakeholders from business, governments, academia and civil society.
As banks increasingly set climate, nature and social targets, the circular economy is emerging as a key enabler of these ambitions by reducing emissions, protecting nature and biodiversity, managing and reducing pollution, strengthening resource security and supporting more healthy, resilient and inclusive economies.
WCEF2026 offers UNEP FI member banks a unique opportunity to engage with policymakers, businesses, investors and fellow financial institutions to explore practical financing solutions, emerging policy and market trends, and innovative partnerships that can accelerate the transition to a circular economy.
UNEP FI is actively contributing to the programme through the following events both in-person and online:
10 September | 14:00–15:00 CEST | Launch of Guidance on Circular Solutions to Achieve Nature Targets
Location: online
This webinar, an official side event at the WCEF, marks the launch of the latest guidance to assist banks as they integrate circularity into their business. It introduces a practical framework to help banks operationalize their nature commitments, structured around marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems. Read more and register here.
15 September | 15:00–16:00 IST | Financing Circular Growth: Mobilising Private Capital
Location: In-person and online
This session demonstrates how unlocking circular economy finance will require complementary funding instruments and coordinated action by public and private actors across the value chain, leaving the participants with a clearer understanding of the drivers and tools for this.
Read more here.
In-person participation in the WCEF is by invitation only. Please contact Kavita Sachwani if you are interested in attending the event. Register for online participation here.
17 September | 13:00–17:00 CEST | Closing the Loop on Critical Energy Transition Minerals Accelerator
Location: in-person and online
This is an official AR5 Expert Consultation where experts stress-test circular transition scenarios to inform multilateral policy, responsible investment and the just energy transition. Read more here.
In-person participation in the WCEF is by invitation only. Please contact Kavita Sachwani if you are interested in attending the event. Register for online participation here.
If your institution is interested in attending or would like more information on opportunities to engage, please email Kavita Sachwani.