Circular Economy Hotspot to bring industry, finance and government leaders to Sydney in September 2026
Sydney will host the Asia Pacific Circular Economy Hotspot from 22–24 September 2026, bringing together senior leaders from across the region to examine practical approaches to circular economy development through policy dialogue, investment discussions and site visits.
Sydney will host the Asia Pacific Circular Economy Hotspot from 22–24 September 2026, bringing together up to 500 senior leaders from industry, finance, government, research institutions and First Nations organisations.
The event will focus on practical approaches to advancing circular economy activity across the Asia Pacific region. Participants will examine how circular systems can influence infrastructure, resource use, manufacturing and investment.
Organisers say the forum will concentrate on delivering outcomes through collaboration between policymakers, investors, researchers and businesses operating across the region.
Regional challenges shaping the agenda
The Asia Pacific region faces a range of pressures including rapid urban growth, increasing infrastructure demand, climate risk and biodiversity loss. At the same time, the region is exploring opportunities associated with circular approaches to materials, manufacturing and resource recovery.
The upcoming forum will examine how these factors intersect and what policy, investment and industry responses may support circular practices.
The event is scheduled to take place in the lead-up to COP31, positioning the discussions alongside broader international climate and sustainability conversations.
Program built around practical engagement
The event program will include plenary sessions featuring international speakers, Australian and Pacific ministers, and academic and industry participants.
Several “circular accelerator” sessions will also take place. These two-hour discussions will focus on specific sectors including finance and investment, the built environment, water systems, circular markets, engineering and policy.
Additional program elements include “circular pitchfests”, where innovators present solutions to investors and decision-makers, along with site visits across sectors such as critical minerals, water management, the built environment and textiles.
Networking events will run alongside the formal program to allow participants to connect and continue discussions beyond scheduled sessions.
Leadership perspectives
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said the event reflects the state’s role in supporting circular economy activity.
“Hosting the Asia Pacific Circular Economy Hotspot 2026 in Sydney is a testament to NSW's leadership in building a resilient, innovative and sustainable economy.”
Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the city has been recognised for its environmental initiatives.
“Sydney is increasingly acknowledged as a city leading the way in environmental initiatives and sustainability.”
Registration and attendance
Registration for the Asia Pacific Circular Economy Hotspot 2026 includes access to plenary sessions, program streams and curated networking events designed to support discussion and exchange between participants.
Attendance is structured to maintain a focused forum involving government, industry, finance, research organisations and civil society representatives from across the Asia Pacific.
The event will be held in Sydney from 22 to 24 September 2026. Tickets are limited, with group discounts available and a limited number of free passes offered to delegates from Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia through the Oceania Pass program.
