The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) will host the International Solid Waste Association World Congress in London from 28 Monday to 30 Wednesday September 2026.
The International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) World Congress is the flagship event for the global waste and resource management sector. It serves as a global assembly, featuring elevated plenary sessions, technical site visits, and a cultural and social itinerary.
The Congress brings together practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and academics from around the world. The event will be centred around the theme of “Beyond Borders: Facilitating Solutions for Global Waste Management”.
CIWM said it will work closely with ISWA and other key stakeholders to develop an “extensive and inspiring” three-day scientific and technical programme of content and activities, including visits to some of the UK’s most advanced resources and waste management facilities.
Marc Tijhuis, Managing Director of ISWA, commented: “The Board of ISWA has chosen CIWM to host its prestigious World Congress in London in 2026, a decision reflecting both CIWM’s status as one of the association’s founding members and the city’s vibrant commitment to sustainability and innovation in waste management.
“London is a city at the forefront of environmental initiatives and provides the perfect backdrop for this event, offering a rich tapestry of innovation and a dynamic platform for thought leadership in our field.
“The collaboration with CIWM in organising the conference will bring a fresh and inventive approach to the programme, integrating cutting-edge research, diverse global perspectives, and interactive sessions designed to foster meaningful exchange and actionable insights among professionals in the waste management industry.”
The collaboration with CIWM in organising the conference will bring a fresh and inventive approach to the programme.
CIWM has been the National Member of ISWA for the United Kingdom since 1970, representing over 6,600 individual members and 250 organisations in the UK and overseas. CIWM recently announced the acquisition of the Circular Economy Institute (CEI) which saw it assume leadership of the Circular Economy Club (CEC), a global network with over 7,000 members across 140 countries.
Commenting on the successful bid, Sarah Poulter, CIWM CEO, said: “As a founding member of ISWA, we are delighted to bring the World Congress back to the UK for the first time since 1980.
“Taking place in the heart of London, the Congress 2026 will provide a unique opportunity to explore global waste management challenges and opportunities in one of the world’s most famous and historic capital cities.
“We are confident that this will not simply be an event but will provide a forum for the development of the international strategies and commitments we need to maintain momentum in our journey to a world beyond waste.”
The Congress will be followed by technical tours to several state-of-the-art UK waste, recycling and resource management facilities in October, CIWM said. An update on the venue for the ISWA World Congress is expected in due course.
