Zero Waste Forum 2026

The Zero Waste Forum 2026 is a global platform that examines the Zero Waste approach developed in Türkiye and evaluates issues such as environmental policy sustainable development circular economy and climate diplomacy. The forum was organized in Istanbul from 5 to 7 June 2026 under the patronage of the Istanbul Governorship and coordinated by the Zero Waste Foundation.

The Zero Waste Forum was established to strengthen the international dimension of the Zero Waste Movement launched in Türkiye in 2017. Its primary objective is to foster international cooperation in line with sustainable development goals by reducing waste generation promoting efficient resource use and expanding recycling and upcycling practices.

The 2026 edition was held as the flagship event of Istanbul Zero Waste Week and recognized as one of the key gatherings in global environmental diplomacy.

The forum brought together representatives from 183 countries including international organizations academics business leaders local authorities and civil society organizations. Participation included;

• Representatives from 183 countries,
• Over 120 ministers,
• More than 200 mayors,
• Over 500 international stakeholders,
• Numerous academics environmental activists and private sector representatives.

Political leaders environmental policy experts and investors from various countries shared their experiences in the field of sustainability during the forum.

Over the three days of the forum parallel sessions were held in eight different halls. Topics addressed included;

• Circular economy,
• Resource efficiency,
• Sustainable cities,
• Climate friendly production models,
• Energy transition,
• Converting waste into economic value,
• Preventing food waste,
• Sustainable agriculture,
• Industrial and technology policies.

In high level ministerial sessions countries exchanged experiences and discussed joint policy recommendations in the areas of energy natural resources agriculture forestry industry and technology.

The forum was held as part of Istanbul Zero Waste Week which took place from 1 to 7 June. During the week more than 1500 events were organized across Istanbul with the aim of raising public awareness of environmental issues through festivals exhibitions educational programs and workshops.

As part of this initiative the Zero Waste Festival held at Atatürk Airport created interactive spaces for children youth and families and delivered hands on educational programs on recycling and environmental themes.

At the conclusion of the forum a final outcome document titled the Istanbul Declaration was planned to be developed with contributions from participating countries. The declaration aims to translate the Zero Waste approach into globally applicable policy recommendations and to foster shared environmental commitments among nations.

Following the publication of the Istanbul Declaration in 2025 with support from 108 countries a more inclusive declaration was targeted for 2026.

The Zero Waste Forum stands out as a multilateral cooperation platform encompassing not only environmental policy but also economics energy technology and development. It seeks to facilitate the establishment of new partnerships between countries strengthen environmental policy development and enhance international coordination toward achieving sustainable development goals.

In addition the event is regarded as one of the most important international platforms preparing for COP31 which Türkiye is set to host providing a critical foundation for environmental and climate diplomacy.